Neil Diamond’s “I Am… I Said”: A Soulful Journey of Self-Discovery
Neil Diamond is a name synonymous with heartfelt and timeless music, and his song “I Am… I Said” stands as a testament to his profound songwriting capabilities. Released as a single on March 15, 1971, this song quickly climbed the charts, reaching number 4 on the U.S. pop singles chart by May 1971. Its success was mirrored across the Atlantic, where it also peaked at number 4 on the UK pop singles chart.
“I Am… I Said” is one of Diamond’s most intensely personal and introspective songs, born from a period of deep self-reflection and therapy. Taking four months to compose, the song delves into Diamond’s inner struggles and his quest for identity, referencing both Los Angeles and New York City. In a 2008 interview with Mojo magazine, Diamond revealed that the song was a conscious effort to express his dreams, aspirations, and his very essence. This emotional depth came directly from his therapy sessions, where he sought to understand himself better.
The song’s inspiration is also linked to an unsuccessful audition for a movie about the life and death of comedian Lenny Bruce. Diamond’s attempt to channel Bruce’s intense emotions led him to therapy, ultimately giving birth to this poignant track. As he told Q magazine in July 2008, the song was written “to find [him]self,” and singing it always required him to gather his emotions due to its powerful and personal nature.
Critically, “I Am… I Said” received widespread acclaim. Rolling Stone praised its lyrics, calling them excellent in a 1972 review, while The New Yorker highlighted Diamond’s songwriting depth in a 2006 retrospective. Cash Box lauded the song’s production and performance, and Record World cleverly noted its philosophical edge, likening it to Descartes’ famous assertion with a twist: “I think therefore I am.” The song’s existential angst was noted by The Daily Telegraph, and Allmusic described it as “an impassioned statement of emotional turmoil” that resonated well with the confessional singer/songwriter movement of the time.
However, not everyone was a fan. Humorist Dave Barry humorously critiqued the song’s line “I am, I said, to no one there. And no one heard at all, not even the chair,” questioning the logic behind expecting a chair to respond. Despite such critiques, the song’s impact was undeniable, earning Diamond his first Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male.
“I Am… I Said” performed well on international charts, reaching top positions in several countries, including number 1 in Ireland and New Zealand, number 2 in Canada and Switzerland, and number 3 in Germany. It also secured spots in the top 10 in Australia, Belgium, South Africa, and the Netherlands.
In summary, Neil Diamond’s “I Am… I Said” is more than just a song; it’s a raw, emotional journey of self-discovery that captures the essence of Diamond’s artistry. Its enduring appeal lies in its heartfelt lyrics and the universal quest for identity and meaning, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.