About the song
Released in 1969 on the album “Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show”, is a deeply evocative song that illustrates Diamond’s gift for blending personal introspection with broader spiritual themes. Written by Diamond himself, this track is a notable example of his ability to craft emotionally resonant music that speaks to both individual experiences and universal truths.
The song’s soulful melody and uplifting lyrics combine to create a powerful sense of both longing and hope. In “Holly Holy”, Diamond explores themes of faith, redemption, and the search for inner peace. The song’s title, which combines the ideas of the sacred (“Holy”) and the everyman (“Holly”), reflects a blend of spiritual yearning and earthly experience. Diamond’s lyrical content is infused with a sense of reverence and sincerity, capturing the essence of spiritual and emotional renewal.
“Holly Holy” was released at a time when Neil Diamond was experiencing a significant phase in his career. After achieving commercial success with earlier hits, this song showcased his evolving artistic depth. The track’s lush production and Diamond’s impassioned vocal performance contribute to its status as one of his standout songs from the late 1960s. The arrangement features rich orchestration, which complements the heartfelt and introspective nature of the lyrics.
The impact of “Holly Holy” extends beyond its initial release. It played a significant role in solidifying Neil Diamond’s reputation as a singer-songwriter capable of delivering both catchy pop hits and profound, thought-provoking music. The song’s message of spiritual reflection and personal growth resonated with many listeners, contributing to Diamond’s enduring appeal. It also highlighted the artist’s ability to bridge different genres, blending elements of folk, rock, and soul into a cohesive and compelling piece.
Socially, “Holly Holy” reflects the zeitgeist of the late 1960s, a period marked by social change and introspective exploration. The song’s themes of searching for meaning and inner peace mirrored the broader cultural shifts of the era, resonating with an audience grappling with questions of identity and purpose. It stands as a testament to the power of music to address and articulate the complex emotions and spiritual concerns of its time.
In summary, “Holly Holy” by Neil Diamond, released in 1969 on “Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show”, is a profound and influential track that showcases Diamond’s lyrical and musical depth. Its exploration of faith, redemption, and personal reflection, combined with its soulful melody and orchestral arrangement, make it a memorable and impactful song in Diamond’s extensive catalog. The track’s enduring relevance underscores its significance in both Diamond’s career and the broader musical landscape of the 1960s.
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Lyrics
Holly holy eyesDream of only meWhere I am, what I amWhat I believe inHolly holyHolly holy dreamWanting only youAnd she comesAnd I run just like the wind willHolly holysing a song(Sing) sing a song of songs(Sing) sing it outSing it strong (sing, sing, sing, sing)YeahYeahCall the sun in the dead of the nightAnd the sun’s gonna rise in the skyTouch a man who can’t walk uprightAnd that lame man, he’s gonna flyAnd I flyAnd I flyHolly holy loveTake the lonely childAnd the seedLet it be filled with tomorrowHolly holySing it strong (sing, sing, sing, sing)YeahYeahCall the sun in the dead of the nightAnd the sun’s gonna rise in the skyTouch a man who can’t walk uprightAnd that lame man, he’s gonna flyAnd I fly, yeahAnd I flyHolly holy dreamDream of only youHolly holy sunHolly holy rainHolly holy love