Neil Diamond, a name synonymous with American soft rock and pop, is the artist behind the original 1967 hit, “Red Red Wine.” Born in Brooklyn, New York, Diamond built a formidable career spanning decades, marked by his distinctive baritone voice, introspective lyrics, and captivating stage presence. He’s sold over 100 million records worldwide, earned a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and been inducted into both the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying his place as a music icon. Diamond’s catalogue boasts a plethora of chart-topping hits, but “Red Red Wine,” while not his biggest initial success, holds a unique place in his discography as it’s a deeply emotional and relatable song.
“Red Red Wine” at its core explores the concept of using alcohol as a coping mechanism for heartbreak. The lyrics paint a picture of someone struggling to forget a lost love, turning to red wine to numb the pain and dull the memories. The “red red wine” becomes a symbol of solace, a temporary escape from the overwhelming emotions of a broken relationship. The song’s simplicity and vulnerability resonated deeply with listeners from its initial release. While Diamond’s version wasn’t a massive chart-topper upon its release, peaking outside the top 50 in the US, it paved the way for its later, more globally recognised iterations.
Feedback on Diamond’s original version often highlights its raw emotion and melancholic tone. Many appreciate the genuine feeling of sadness conveyed in his vocals and the straightforward lyrics. While later covers have brought a more upbeat and reggae-infused feel to the song, the original “Red Red Wine” remains a testament to Diamond’s ability to connect with audiences through heartfelt and relatable themes of love and loss. It established the song’s enduring appeal, laying the foundation for its subsequent interpretations and lasting popularity.
