About the song
“I Am… I Said” is a profound and introspective song by the legendary singer-songwriter Neil Diamond. Released in March 1971, this deeply personal track was both composed and performed by Diamond, showcasing his exceptional talent for crafting emotive and reflective lyrics. The song was featured on his album *Stones*, a collection that further solidified Diamond’s reputation as a masterful storyteller and musician.
“I Am… I Said” stands out for its raw honesty and introspective nature, reflecting Diamond’s struggles with identity and a sense of belonging. The song captures a moment of existential contemplation, where the artist grapples with feelings of isolation and longing. With lines like “I am, I said / To no one there / And no one heard at all / Not even the chair,” Diamond poignantly conveys the loneliness and frustration of feeling unheard and disconnected.
Upon its release, “I Am… I Said” quickly resonated with listeners, climbing the charts to secure a position as a Top 10 hit. It peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and achieved similar success internationally, reaching No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s success was a testament to its universal themes and Diamond’s ability to touch the hearts of a wide audience.
The recording features Diamond’s powerful vocals and a rich orchestral arrangement, enhancing the emotional depth of the song. The production, handled by Tom Catalano, captures the intensity and vulnerability in Diamond’s performance, making “I Am… I Said” one of his most memorable and enduring works.
Throughout his career, Neil Diamond has written numerous hits, but “I Am… I Said” remains a standout for its introspective lyrics and emotional resonance. It reflects a moment of personal revelation and artistic maturity, allowing listeners to connect with Diamond on a deeply personal level. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the universal human experience it so eloquently expresses.
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Lyrics
L.A.’s fine, the sun shines most the time
And the feeling is “lay back”
Palm trees grow and rents are low
But you know I keep thinkin’ about
Making my way back
Well I’m New York City born and raised
But nowadays
I’m lost between two shores
L.A.’s fine, but it ain’t home
New York’s home
But it ain’t mine no more
“I am”… I said
To no one there
And no one heard at all
Not even the chair
“I am”… I cried
“I am”… said I
And I am lost and I can’t
Even say why
Leavin’ me lonely still
Did you ever read about a frog
Who dreamed of bein’ a king
And then became one
Well except for the names
And a few other changes
If you talk about me
The story is the same one
But I got an emptiness deep inside
And I’ve tried
But it won’t let me go
And I’m not a man who likes to swear
But I never cared
For the sound of being alone
“I am”… I said
To no one there
And no one heard at all
Not even the chair
“I am”… I cried
“I am”… said I
And I am lost and I can’t
Even say why
“I am”… I said
“I am”… I cried
“I am”