About the song
“Red Red Wine” by Neil Diamond is a classic song that has experienced a fascinating journey through different musical genres and eras. Originally released on October 7, 1967, this track first appeared on Neil Diamond’s album Just for You. Known for its smooth, melodic style, the song quickly became a staple of Diamond’s early career, showcasing his talent for blending heartfelt lyrics with memorable melodies.
“Red Red Wine” is notable for its evocative lyrics and soothing rhythm. The song’s lyrics reflect a nostalgic longing and emotional vulnerability, capturing the essence of a love that has faded. The metaphor of red red wine is used to represent the singer’s desire to escape the pain of a lost relationship and find solace in the familiar comfort of a drink. This imagery not only highlights the song’s emotional depth but also connects with listeners on a personal level, resonating with their own experiences of heartache and longing.
The initial release of “Red Red Wine” was met with positive reception, but its impact extended beyond its original version. The song underwent a significant transformation when it was famously covered by UB40 in 1983. UB40’s reggae-infused rendition of “Red Red Wine” became a massive international hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. This version introduced the song to a new audience and helped solidify its status as a timeless classic.
The social impact of “Red Red Wine” and its subsequent cover version reflects the song’s versatility and broad appeal. Neil Diamond’s original version contributed to his reputation as a talented singer-songwriter in the late 1960s, while UB40’s cover brought the song into the reggae genre, demonstrating its adaptability and continued relevance. The cover also highlighted the cross-cultural influence of music, showing how a song can evolve and resonate with different audiences over time.
In summary, “Red Red Wine” by Neil Diamond, released on October 7, 1967, from the album Just for You, is a poignant and enduring track that has transcended its original genre. The song’s emotional depth and memorable melody have contributed to its lasting appeal. Its subsequent cover by UB40 in 1983 expanded its reach and showcased the song’s adaptability across musical styles. “Red Red Wine” remains a significant piece in the history of popular music, illustrating the power of a well-crafted song to connect with audiences across generations and genres.
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Lyrics
Red, red wineGo to my headMake me forget that IStill need her soRed, red wineIt’s up to youAll I can do, I’ve doneMem’ries won’t goMem’ries won’t goI’d have swornThat with timeThoughts of you would leave my headI was wrongNow I findJust one thing makes me forgetRed, red wineStay close to meDon’t let me be aloneIt’s tearin’ apartMy blue, blue heartI’d have swornThat with timeThoughts of you would leave my headI was wrongNow I findJust one thing makes me forgetRed, red wineStay close to meDon’t let me be aloneIt’s tearin’ apartMy blue, blue heartRed, red wineStay close to meDon’t let me be aloneIt’s tearin’ apartMy blue, blue heart