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 downAnd the grass on the ground smelling sweetMove up the road to the outside of townAnd the sound of that good gospel beat… Sits a ragged tent where there ain’t no treesAnd that gospel group telling you and me… It’s love, Brother Love sayBrother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show (part of the party)Pack up the babies and grab the old ladiesAnd everyone goes‘Cause everyone knows Brother Love’s show… Room gets suddenly still and when you’d almost betYou could hear yourself sweat, he walks inEyes black as coal and when he lifts his faceEvery ear in the place is on him… Starting soft and slow like a small earthquakeAnd when he lets go, half the valley shakes… It’s love, Brother Love sayBrother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show (part of the party)Pack up the babies and grab the old ladiesAnd everyone goes‘Cause everyone knows ’bout Brother Love’s show… Hallelujah, brothersHalle-hallelujah, I said brothers(Hallelujah) now you got yourself two good hands(Halle-hallelujah) and when your brother is troubledYou gotta reach out your one hand for him(Hallelujah) ’cause that’s what it’s there for(Halle-hallelujah) and when your heart is troubledYou 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 yoursWalk with me this dayIn my heart I knowI will never strayHalle, 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 ladiesAnd everyone goes… Love, Brother Love sayBrother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show