Best Neil Diamond Songs
On The Acoustic
(PAGE IS BEING UPDATED)

Here on this best Neil Diamond songs page you'll find a collection of demo covers, free chord sheets, rhythm tips and more on how to play a few Neil Diamond songs on the acoustic.

best neil diamond songs

If you need to purchase the full video lesson, you can for a few bucks each or less with a bulk purchase. I'll eventually be using Neil Diamond  album covers below to indicate the source of the original song.

70s Anthems & Classics

And The Grass Won't Pay No Mind
Cracklin' Rosie
I Am... I Said
Play Me
Song Sung Blue
Sweet Caroline

Smooth Ballads (Late 70s & 80s)

Beautiful Noise
Forever In Blue Jeans
Hello Again
If You Know What I Mean
Longfellow Serenade
The Story Of My Life

Early Acoustic Pop & Rock (The 60s)

Cherry, Cherry
Girl, You'll Be A Woman Soon
Kentucky Woman
Shilo
Solitary Man

Who Is Neil Diamond?

who is neil diamond

Neil Diamond is an American singer-songwriter and musician who has been a prominent figure in the music industry for several decades. Born on January 24, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York, as Neil Leslie Diamond, he has had a diverse career that spans various genres, including pop, rock, and adult contemporary music.

Diamond's songwriting talents and distinctive voice contributed to his success, earning him a place among the most celebrated artists in the music world. He became known for his engaging live performances and a string of hit songs that have left a lasting impact on popular music.

Some of Neil Diamond's most well-known songs include "Sweet Caroline," "Cracklin' Rosie," "Song Sung Blue," "America," and "I Am... I Said." His contributions to the music industry have earned him numerous awards, and he has been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Apart from his musical achievements, Neil Diamond has also ventured into acting and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His enduring career has made him one of the best-selling music artists globally, and his influence continues to resonate in the world of popular music.


70s Anthems & Classics

And The Grass Won't Pay No Mind - Learn To Play On Guitar

And The Grass Won't Pay No Mind Neil Diamond album cover

And The Grass Won't Pay No Mind is a song from Neil Diamond's 1969 album "Brother Love's Travelling Salvation Show."

The lyrics delve into themes of love, nature, and the passage of time. The singer reflects on a lost love, feeling the pain of absence, while observing that nature continues to thrive, indifferent to their sorrow.

This song has been covered by many artists, with one of the most notable versions by Elvis Presley, who included it on his 1969 album "From Elvis in Memphis."

While the song is cherished by many, it didn't achieve significant chart success, except in Australia, where it reached number 92.

  • Album: Brother Love's Travelling Salvation Show
  • Year: 1969
  • Chart:Did not chart in the US (Charted #92 in Australia).
  • Trivia: Covered by Elvis Presley; Neil's version only charted in Australia (#92).

Chords And Strumming

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Cracklin Rosie - Learn To Play On Guitar

Lesson Overview: Driving Acoustic Rock

This song is all about the driving rhythm. It’s a great example of Neil’s ability to mix a folk-strumming style with a rock energy. We are focusing on keeping the right hand moving constantly to mimic the percussion of the original track.


Song Vital Statistics

Original KeyDb Major
Kirby's SetupDrop D Tuning (Capo slides up +1 fret for key change)
Rhythm PatternDown-Up-Pause-Up And Repeat (Fast Folk Rock)
Chords UsedG, C, Am, D
🎸 Kirby's Pro Tip:
"The key change at the end is the trickiest part. Instead of switching to barre chords, I simply slide the capo up one fret. There is just enough time in the break to make the slide and keep playing with your open chord shapes!"
Cracklin Rosie Neil Diamond single cover

Cracklin Rosie is a famous Neil Diamond song released as a single in 1970 and later featured on his album "Tap Root Manuscript." Its catchy tune helped establish Diamond as a top singer-songwriter of the 1970s.

The song hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US, marking a milestone for Diamond. It also topped charts in Canada, New Zealand, and the second spot in Australia and Ireland.

Diamond still performs "Cracklin' Rosie" at concerts, delighting audiences with its lively vibe. Its enduring popularity confirms its place as one of his best-loved classics.

  • Album: Tap Root Manuscript
  • Year: 1970
  • Chart: #1 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: This was Neil's first #1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100; despite the name, the song is actually about a bottle of wine, not a woman.

Chords And Strumming

I play Drop D tuning here with a steady down up pause up rhythm pattern with a few riffs throughout the song. I play the chords G, C, Am and D with a quick move near to the end of the capo up 1 fret.

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I Am I Said - Learn To Play On Guitar

I Am I Said Neil Diamond Stones album cover

I Am I Said is a well known Neil Diamond song from his 1971 album "Stones." It's recognized as one of his most iconic tracks, serving as the album's sole single.

Upon release, "I Am I Said" reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US, and No. 1 in Ireland and New Zealand, with top 10 placements in other countries.

Its enduring popularity solidifies its status as a timeless classic, resonating with audiences through its exploration of self-identity and the search for belonging.

  • Album: Stones
  • Year: 1971
  • Chart: #4 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: A deeply personal song about his struggle to find belonging between NY and LA.

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Play Me - Learn To Play On Guitar

play me neil diamond

Play Me is a track from Neil Diamonds 1972 album Moods.

This lesson will be available later in Jan 2026.

Chords And Strumming

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Song Sung Blue - Learn To Play Guitar

Lesson Overview: The Picking Pattern

Unlike the heavy strummers above, this song relies on a gentle swing. I incorporate a specific picking melody midway through the song that mimics the vocal line, which adds a professional touch to your solo performance.


Song Vital Statistics

Original KeyC Major
Kirby's SetupStandard Tuning (No Capo)
Rhythm PatternRoot-Down-Root-Up-Down-Up (Swing Feel)
Chords UsedC, A#, Am, G, G7, C7, F, Dm
🎸 Kirby's Pro Tip:
"That A# chord can be tricky in the key of C. If you struggle with the barre, try playing just the inside 4 strings (x-1-3-3-3-x) for an easier transition."
Song Sung Blue Neil Diamond Moods album cover

Song Sung Blue is a hit song by Neil Diamond from his 1972 album "Moods." It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1972 and became one of Diamond's signature songs. It also earned a Grammy nomination for Song of the Year in 1973, boosting Diamond's reputation as a talented singer-songwriter.

Neil Diamond got the idea for "Song Sung Blue" from a soccer match he attended in 1971, where the crowd's chanting inspired the song's joyful chorus.

The recording features a Hammond organ, adding to its unique sound along with guitar and percussion. Andy Williams also recorded a notable version that charted on the Billboard Hot 100.

  • Album: Moods
  • Year: 1972
  • Chart: #1 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: Inspired by the melody of Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 21.

Chords And Strumming

A simple root down root up down up rhythm pattern in standard tuning. You'll pick a melody pattern midway through the song while playing the chords C, A#, Am, G, G7, C7, F and a Dm.

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Sweet Caroline - Learn To Play On Guitar

Lesson Overview: The Crowd Pleaser

While everyone knows the horn lines, the acoustic guitar drives this song. The studio version is in B Major, which is tough for open chords. I use a capo to make this playable with standard open shapes while keeping that signature bounce.


Song Vital Statistics

Original KeyB Major
Kirby's SetupStandard Tuning (Capo 2nd fret)
Rhythm PatternDown-Up-Down-Down-Down-Up-Down-Up-Down-Down-U-Down and repeat (The "Diamond Shuffle")
Chords UsedE, A, D, Gbm, Dmaj7, Dbm, Bm
🎸 Kirby's Pro Tip:
"The pre-chorus build-up ('Hands, touching hands...') is all about increasing your strumming intensity. Don't rush it! Let the volume grow naturally until you hit that massive chorus."
Sweet Caroline Neil Diamond album cover

Sweet Caroline is one of Neil Diamond's most famous songs. Released in 1969 on the album "Brother Love's Travelling Salvation Show," it quickly became a beloved classic. The song is especially popular at Boston Red Sox games.

"Sweet Caroline" is an upbeat love song about a man with deep feelings for a woman named Caroline. Its famous chorus, "Sweet Caroline, bah bah bah," encourages people to sing along, making it a favorite at parties and events.

The song was inspired by Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of President John F. Kennedy, after Neil Diamond saw a photo of her in a magazine. Although it wasn't an immediate chart-topper, "Sweet Caroline" has become one of Neil Diamond's most cherished songs, known for its joyful melody and sing-along chorus.

  • Album: Brother Love's Travelling Salvation Show
  • Year: 1969
  • Chart: #4 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: Actually written for his wife Marcia, but "Caroline" fit the melody better.

Chords And Strumming

You can play a down down down up down up and repeat rhythm pattern with a bit of a shuffle as you enter into the chorus. A few riffs but no lead work while in standard tuning with the chords E, A, D, Gbm, Dmaj7, Dbm and Bm.

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Smooth Ballads (Late 70s & 80s)

Beautiful Noise - Learn To Play On Guitar

Neil Diamond Beautiful Noise album cover and chords

Beautiful Noise is a song from Neil Diamond's 1976 album of the same name. He sings about how wonderful music is, finding it in everyday sounds like kids playing or city streets. He calls these sounds a "beautiful noise," bringing people together and making life happier.

The song is lively and joyful, blending pop and folk rock, popular in the 1970s. It was a big hit, reaching 13th on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US and 2nd in Canada.

Neil Diamond often sings "Beautiful Noise" at his concerts, spreading joy with its cheerful vibe. You can download the lyrics for free.

  • Album: Beautiful Noise
  • Year: 1976
  • Chart: #13 (Hot 100), #1 (Easy Listening).
  • Trivia: Produced by Robbie Robertson of The Band.

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Forever In Blue Jeans - Learn To Play On Guitar

Forever In Blue Jeans Neil Diamond album cover

Forever In Blue Jeans is a heartfelt song by Neil Diamond, released in 1977. It's featured on his album "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" and stands out as a duet with Barbra Streisand.

The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US and earned a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. It reached #2 in Canada.

Originally recorded separately, a radio DJ's mix of both versions led to the iconic duet release. "Forever In Blue Jeans" remains a timeless love ballad, cherished for its portrayal of enduring love and happiness.

  • Album: You Don't Bring Me Flowers
  • Year: 1978
  • Chart: #20 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: Co-written with his guitarist Richard Bennett as a reaction to the industry's focus on money.

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Hello Again - Learn To Play On Guitar

Hello Again Neil Diamond Jazz Singer album cover

Hello Again is a romantic song by Neil Diamond, released in 1980 on his album "The Jazz Singer." It's adored for its beautiful lyrics and gentle melody.

The lyrics express a longing to reconnect with someone special, celebrating the happiness of being reunited. The title, "Hello Again," captures the joy of seeing that person once more.

"Hello Again" reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US and earned Diamond a Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Male Vocal Performance, peaking at No. 3.

  • Album: The Jazz Singer (Soundtrack)
  • Year: 1980
  • Chart: #6 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: One of three Top 10 hits generated from the movie alone.

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If You Know What I Mean - Learn To Play On Guitar

If You Know What I Mean Neil Diamond album cover

If You Know What I Mean is a song by Neil Diamond, released in 1976 on his album "Beautiful Noise." It's a notable track that added to Diamond's success as a singer-songwriter in the 1970s.

Upon release, "If You Know What I Mean" topped charts in the US and Canada and reached the top 10 in The Netherlands and New Zealand. It also performed well in other countries, solidifying Neil Diamond's status as a prominent artist of the time.


  • Album: Beautiful Noise
  • Year: 1976
  • Chart: #11 (Hot 100), #1 (Easy Listening).
  • Trivia: The lyrics deal with looking back at the innocence of the past.

Chords And Strumming

This one you can play with down strokes and them play a down down up down up down up rhythm pattern and repeat in standard tuning. Just a few riffs in places with the chords Bm, A, G, D, Em, D/Gb A7sus and an Fmaj7.

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Longfellow Serenade - Learn To Play On Guitar

Longfellow Serenade Neil Diamond album cover

Longfellow Serenade is a romantic song by Neil Diamond, released in 1974 on his album "Serenade." It's one of his well-known tracks, celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody.

The song blends pop and soft rock, typical of his 1970s music, creating a romantic atmosphere that's perfect for weddings and special occasions.

Upon release, the song topped charts in the US and Canada and ranked in the top 10 in several other countries. This success helped cement Neil Diamond's reputation as a talented singer-songwriter.

  • Album: Serenade
  • Year: 1974
  • Chart: #5 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: The title references poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

Chords And Strumming

This one has a down up down up and repeat rhythm pattern with a few slides and bass runs while played in standard tuning. You'll need the D, C, G6, Am7, G, A7, Dmaj7, A and D7 chords and a capo 2nd fret to bring this one together.

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The Story Of My Life - Learn To Play On Guitar

The Story Of My Life Neil Diamond album cover

The Story of My Life is a song written and performed by Neil Diamond. It's a reflective and introspective piece that explores the journey and experiences of the narrator's life. The lyrics delve into various aspects of life, including love, loss, and personal growth.

While "The Story of My Life" may not be as well-known as some of Diamond's other hits, it's appreciated by fans for its sincere and poignant portrayal of life's ups and downs.


  • Album: Headed for the Future
  • Year: 1986
  • Chart: #11 (Adult Contemporary), #85 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: One of the few songs from his 80s era where he returned to his pure songwriting roots.

Chords And Strumming

Play the chords C, G7, F, Fmaj7, G, Am7, Am and a Dm in standard tuning. You'll play a 1-2 up down rhythm pattern where 1-2 are arpeggio notes on the chord you're on. No lead in this one.

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Early Acoustic Pop & Rock (The 60s)

Cherry Cherry - Learn To Play On Guitar

Cherry Cherry Neil Diamond album cover

Cherry Cherry is a classic rock hit by Neil Diamond, released in 1966. It marked a turning point in his career, making him a well-known singer-songwriter.

The song's upbeat melody and catchy guitar riff became iconic. It's all about the thrill of young love, with Diamond likening his sweetheart to a ripe cherry ready to be picked.

"Cherry, Cherry" soared to No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, propelling Diamond to fame. Its infectious rhythm and his passionate vocals made it a lasting favorite. Fans still love "Cherry, Cherry," a highlight of Diamond's live shows. It's hailed as one of his best, a timeless classic that rocked the charts in both the US and Canada.

  • Album: The Feel of Neil Diamond
  • Year: 1966
  • Chart: #6 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: His first big "rocker" hit; he played the electric guitar riff himself.

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Girl You'll Be A Woman Soon - Learn To Play On Guitar

Girl You'll Be A Woman Soon Neil Diamond chords and cover

Girl You'll Be A Woman Soon is a number from  Neil Diamond released in 1967 on his album "Just For You." It's been covered by various artists over the years, marking an important part of Diamond's early career

The song peaked at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US, boosting Diamond's fame. It was also successful in Canada and Australia.

Notably, it was covered by Urge Overkill for the movie "Pulp Fiction" in 1994, introducing it to a new audience and increasing its popularity.

  • Album: Just For You
  • Year: 1967
  • Chart: #10 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: Had a massive resurgence in 1994 on the Pulp Fiction soundtrack.

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Kentucky Woman - Learn To Play On Guitar

Kentucky Woman Neil Diamond album cover

Kentucky Woman hit the music scene in 1967, making its mark as a catchy and well-received single. It climbed to No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.

The song is part of Neil Diamond's album "Just for You," released the same year. While "Kentucky Woman" contributed to Diamond's success, he later achieved even greater fame with hits like "Sweet Caroline" and "Cracklin' Rosie."

The song's popularity endured through the years, with various artists covering it.

  • Album: Just For You
  • Year: 1967
  • Chart: #22 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: Deep Purple later covered this song, bringing it to a harder rock audience.

Chords And Strumming

Use a steady up and down rhythm pattern in standard tuning with a capo 4th fret for this one. A quick riff in one place but no lead as you play the chords G. C, D, C/G and an Am7.

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Shilo - Learn To Play On Guitar

Neil Diamond Shilo album cover

Shilo was recorded in 1967. The song can be found on his 1968 album titled "Just for You."

While "Shilo" was not a major chart-topping hit, it did manage to reach number 24 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. "Shilo" holds a special place in Neil Diamond's discography, as it's a heartfelt and autobiographical song.

Diamond wrote the song about an imaginary childhood friend named Shilo, helping him cope with loneliness during his early years.


  • Album: Just For You
  • Year: 1970 (Single release)
  • Chart: #24 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: Written about Neil's imaginary childhood friend.

Chords And Strumming

Only four chords here and they are C, Dm, G and an F with a bit of arpeggio notes followed by a down up stop up and repeat pattern. A little picking and some riffs in here while in standard tuning.

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Solitary Man - Learn To Play On Guitar

Solitary Man Neil Diamond acoustic guitar chords

Solitary Man is one of Neil Diamond's early hits, released in 1966 as a single. It's a key song that helped establish him as a prominent singer-songwriter.

The lyrics tell the story of a man reflecting on his loneliness and the challenges he faces. Despite these struggles, he remains strong and continues to seek love and connection. The title phrase, "Solitary Man," captures the narrator's feelings of isolation and perseverance.

Upon release, "Solitary Man" reached No. 55 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the U.S. While it wasn't an immediate massive hit, it laid the groundwork for Neil Diamond's future success.

  • Album: The Feel of Neil Diamond
  • Year: 1966
  • Chart: #55 (Hot 100).
  • Trivia: Neil Diamond's debut single; later won a Grammy when covered by Johnny Cash.

Chords And Strumming

Played in standard tuning with the chords Em, Am, G, C and a D, you'll play a down down up down up down up rhythm pattern broken with a few arpeggio notes on the Em, A few slides for the lead break but that's about all.

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Thanks for stropping by my best Neil Diamond songs page and I hope the info here helps you learn some of the best Neil Diamond songs for the acoustic player.

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