Neil Diamond – Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show

About the song

Neil Diamond’s “Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show” is a spirited anthem that embodies the essence of his musical prowess and storytelling finesse. Released in 1969 as part of his album “Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show,” this song resonates with its blend of gospel-inspired fervor and Diamond’s signature charisma.

The track opens with an infectious rhythmic pulse, immediately drawing listeners into its lively atmosphere. Diamond’s commanding vocals soar over the jubilant instrumentation, creating a sense of communal celebration and spiritual upliftment. The lyrics tell the tale of Brother Love, a charismatic preacher who travels from town to town, spreading his message of hope and redemption through lively, soul-stirring sermons.

At its core, “Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show” explores themes of faith, community, and the power of music to unite and uplift. Diamond’s portrayal of Brother Love captures the essence of a charismatic figure who commands attention and inspires devotion among his followers. The song’s upbeat tempo and energetic delivery reflect Diamond’s ability to fuse rock, gospel, and pop influences into a cohesive and infectious musical experience.

Socially, the song resonated during a period of cultural change and unrest in the late 1960s, offering listeners a message of optimism and communal spirit amidst turbulent times. Its anthemic quality and universal themes made it a favorite on both radio airwaves and concert stages, solidifying Neil Diamond’s reputation as a masterful storyteller and performer.

Neil Diamond‘s career-spanning ability to craft songs that blend storytelling with musicality is evident in “Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show.” The song remains a testament to his enduring influence and ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Whether experienced in a live setting or through recordings, this track continues to evoke a sense of joy and spiritual resonance that transcends generations.

In conclusion, “Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show” stands as a testament to Neil Diamond’s musical legacy, capturing the spirit of hope, community, and musical celebration. Its infectious rhythm, heartfelt lyrics, and Diamond’s impassioned performance make it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world.

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Lyrics

… Hot August night and the leaves hanging down
And the grass on the ground smelling sweet
Move up the road to the outside of town
And the sound of that good gospel beat

… Sits a ragged tent where there ain’t no trees
And that gospel group telling you and me

… It’s love, Brother Love say
Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show (part of the party)
Pack up the babies and grab the old ladies
And everyone goes
‘Cause everyone knows Brother Love’s show

… Room gets suddenly still and when you’d almost bet
You could hear yourself sweat, he walks in
Eyes black as coal and when he lifts his face
Every ear in the place is on him

… Starting soft and slow like a small earthquake
And when he lets go, half the valley shakes

… It’s love, Brother Love say
Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show (part of the party)
Pack up the babies and grab the old ladies
And everyone goes
‘Cause everyone knows ’bout Brother Love’s show

… Hallelujah, brothers
Halle-hallelujah, I said brothers
(Hallelujah) now you got yourself two good hands
(Halle-hallelujah) and when your brother is troubled
You gotta reach out your one hand for him
(Hallelujah) ’cause that’s what it’s there for
(Halle-hallelujah) and when your heart is troubled
You gotta reach out your other hand
(Hallelujah) reach it out to the man up there
(Halle-hallelujah) ’cause that’s what he’s there for

… Take my hand in yours
Walk with me this day
In my heart I know
I will never stray
Halle, halle, halle, halle, halle, halle, halle

… Love, Brother Love say (halle, halle)
Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show (halle, halle)
Pack up the babies and grab the old ladies (halle, halle)
And everyone goes

… I say love, Brother Love say (halle, halle)
Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show (halle, halle)
Pack up the babies and grab the old ladies
And everyone goes

… Love, Brother Love say
Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show