Rekindle a timeless romance with Neil Diamond's evocative ballad, "September Morn."
The Song
"September Morn" is the lushly orchestrated title track from Neil Diamond's thirteenth studio album, released in December 1979. The song is a powerful ballad about a couple reuniting after a period apart, reminiscing about their past love and questioning if the "September morning" can still evoke the same feelings. Its poignant lyrics, coupled with a soaring melody, solidify its place as one of Diamond's most enduring romantic anthems.
The melody for "September Morn" originated from a French tune titled "C'est en septembre," composed by the acclaimed French singer-songwriter Gilbert Bécaud. Diamond penned the English lyrics, adapting them to the autumnal feel of Bécaud's original music, which was a general reflection on the changes that September brings, rather than a romantic narrative. This collaboration marked the beginning of a productive, albeit short-lived, partnership between Diamond and Bécaud, who would also contribute five songs to Diamond's subsequent album, The Jazz Singer. Bob Gaudio, a former member of The Four Seasons and a seasoned hitmaker, produced the track, bringing his expertise to Diamond's evolving sound.
The Artist
Neil Diamond was already a superstar by the time "September Morn" was released, known for his dramatic ballads and energetic live performances. The late 1970s marked a period where Diamond, while still releasing upbeat tracks, truly cemented his reputation as the "king of pop romance" with a string of ballad hits, including "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" and "Forever in Blue Jeans." "September Morn" further established this trajectory, showcasing his distinctive baritone voice and theatrical delivery.
Diamond's career in the 1970s was characterized by a restless artistic spirit, beginning with experimental albums like Tap Root Manuscript which fused pop with traditional African music. However, by the mid-to-late 70s, he transitioned more explicitly into the grand, emotive balladry that became his signature style.
Chart Performance
While not his biggest chart-topper at the time, "September Morn" still performed strongly on multiple charts. It became Neil Diamond's 30th Top 40 hit in the U.S.
- U.S. Billboard Hot 100: Peaked at #17 in March 1980.
- U.S. Adult Contemporary Chart: Reached #2.
- Canadian RPM Top Singles: Peaked at #15.
- Canadian Adult Contemporary Chart: Spent two weeks at #1.
- Record World: Reached #7.
- Cash Box Top 100: Peaked at #14.
Cultural Impact
"September Morn" has become one of Neil Diamond's most enduring and beloved tracks, frequently appearing on his compilations and remaining a fan favorite. Its themes of enduring love and nostalgic reflection resonate deeply, making it a staple in his concert repertoire for decades.
The song's tender yet powerful delivery showcases Diamond's vocal prowess, which some critics consider among his finest. It has been covered by several artists, including Andrea Bocelli and Salena Jones, further cementing its status as a modern standard. Its timeless appeal led to a notable performance where Diamond serenaded Britain's Princess Diana with "September Morn" during a White House dinner in the 1980s.
Fun Facts
- The original French melody, "C'est en septembre," by Gilbert Bécaud was not a romantic song but a poetic reflection on the changes that the month of September brings.
- The B-side of the "September Morn" single featured a re-recorded, light samba-inspired version of Diamond's classic Monkees hit, "I'm a Believer," complete with steel drums and some updated lyrics.
- "September Morn" was considered for the soundtrack of The Jazz Singer, but Columbia Records ultimately chose it as the title track for Diamond's 1979 album, leaving "Hello Again" for the movie.
- In 2011, the song briefly gained unusual attention when a psychic falsely claimed its lyrics contained clues to the disappearance of nursing student Holly Bobo, a claim that authorities quickly dismissed.