When Neil Diamond Sang a Song That Wasn’t His and the Hidden Story Behind It Surprised Everyone
A Song Beyond Generations
“As Time Goes By” was originally written in 1931 by Herman Hupfeld and later immortalized in the legendary 1942 film Casablanca. When Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman exchanged glances to its melody, the song instantly became an eternal symbol of love and longing. But for many, it came as a surprise when Neil Diamond — the “ballad king” of the 1970s and 80s — included the song in his 1998 release, As Time Goes By: The Movie Album. For fans who had long associated him with hits like “Sweet Caroline,” “Song Sung Blue,” or “Cracklin’ Rosie,” hearing him interpret a golden-age Hollywood love song was both unexpected and moving.
Why Did Neil Choose This Song?
Neil Diamond revealed that he wanted to honor classic movie soundtracks that had shaped generations. Among them, “As Time Goes By” held a special place — it was a song he remembered from his childhood, tied to memories of his parents. With his gravelly, heartfelt voice, Neil gave the song a new emotional layer. It was no longer just Casablanca’s romantic theme — it became the reflection of an artist who had lived through decades of love, loss, and triumph.
A Different Kind of Interpretation
While the Casablanca version carries the fragile melancholy of unfulfilled love, Neil Diamond’s rendition sounds more like wisdom passed down with age. He doesn’t sing as someone trapped in regret; instead, he sings as a man who has witnessed life’s changes yet treasures the beauty of memory. That’s why his version resonated so strongly, not only with older audiences who cherished Casablanca but also with younger listeners discovering the song anew through his voice.
A Milestone in His Career
Released when Neil was in his mid-fifties, As Time Goes By: The Movie Album marked an important turning point. It showed his transition from pop energy to deeper, reflective projects filled with nostalgia. For Neil, singing “As Time Goes By” was not just about reviving an old tune — it was a reminder that while time flows endlessly, love and music remain.