After Almost 4 Decades, Neil Diamond Revealed The Story Behind "Sweet Caroline"

Jan 30, 2019 by apost team

Musician Neil Diamond has written dozens of chart-topping hits over his career, but one song that holds a special place in his heart is "Sweet Caroline." Released in 1969, this catchy tune quickly sold millions of copies throughout the USA and has become the Boston Red Sox's unofficial anthem. Now, 40 years after its initial release, Diamond is finally revealing the secret inspiration behind this fan favorite.

The Caroline in Neil Diamond's song is none other than President John F. Kennedy's daughter Caroline Bouvier Kennedy (born in 1957).

While Diamond was staying in a Memphis hotel, he happened to come across a LIFE magazine that had a cover image of Caroline riding on a pony.

At that time, Caroline was 11-years-old. According to Diamond, this image stuck in his mind and he decided to incorporate Caroline's name into one of his new songs.

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Since Neil Diamond was influenced by the image of Caroline Kennedy, it's obvious to assume he wrote the song for her. However, the reality is a bit more complex.

You see, Diamond was already working on a song at the time for his then-wife Marcia Murphey. The only problem was, he needed a three-syllable name to fit his melody.

Luckily, Diamond came across the image of Caroline at about this time and decided to run with it.

Diamond said he didn't want to reveal the inspiration behind his song mainly for fear of embarrassing Caroline Kennedy.

To commemorate Caroline's 50th birthday, however, Diamond decided to sing "Sweet Caroline" and revealed the role she played in his musical inspiration.

Thankfully, it appears Caroline is very happy to be a part of such an iconic tune.

Not only is "Sweet Caroline" a pretty song, but it's also done a great deal of good for the Boston community.

In 2013, Diamond told the press that all of the royalties from "Sweet Caroline" would go to help victims of the tragic Boston Marathon bombing. Anyone who's been to Boston's Fenway Stadium already knows how important "Sweet Caroline" is for the Boston community.

After Diamond's generous donation, this song has only become more important for Bostonians.

Hopefully, this article sheds more light on the mystery behind Diamond's classic single. If you know anyone who loves this song, be sure to send this story to them!