Music

Cuddly singer Neil Diamond: "I understand women better than I used to"

06/09/2017 written by Dominik Hug
He wrote melodies for millions: Neil Diamond (76) is one of the most successful songwriters of all time. He returns to Switzerland on September 13. He talks to us about age, love and his wife Katie, who is 30 years his junior.

Is life as exciting at 76 as it was at 26?
Neil Diamond: Well, the edges aren't as sharp today as they used to be, but I'm not completely jaded either (laughs). I allow myself more time off these days, but after a few days I get the itch and pick up the guitar.

Did you expect to be in the business for so long?
No, it was beyond my imagination. It's not just that I discovered my love of music at an early age, but also that I unconsciously struck a chord with many of my songs. And I was very lucky.

30 years age difference: Singer Neil Diamond and his third wife Katie McNeil.
It must have been more than luck!
Yes, but it was the deciding factor. The good Lord also gave me some talent. And: I was never too good to work hard. However, my private life suffered as a result.

You've been divorced twice.
Exactly. My music always came first for me. My children missed me when I was on tour for months at a time. The family was in constant competition with my career, which led to some of the most difficult decisions of my life. But people can't change their nature.

You were not meant to go through life alone, you once said.
Yes, I hate being single. I like to know who I belong to. Fortunately, I've been married again since 2012. Loving gives you the most powerful energy.

Your third wife Katie is 30 years younger than you. Is the age difference not a problem?
No. We share many similar interests. On the other hand, you also become more conciliatory over the years and no longer allow yourself to be provoked at every opportunity. I understand women better than I used to, I can put myself in their shoes better. Being at peace in a relationship is a state that becomes more and more desirable as you get older. I'm glad that I have the dramas of my younger years behind me.

This article first appeared in Blick.

NEIL DIAMOND
September 13, 17, Hallenstadion Zurich
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Translated with DeepL