Neil Diamond’s 27th album, Home Before Dark, marked a significant evolution in his musical journey, achieving notable commercial success by topping the Billboard 200. This acclaimed collection of original songs was characterized by a more stripped-back sound and featured prominent musicians like guitarist Jonny Polonsky, along with members of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers—Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench—who had collaborated with Diamond on his earlier 2005 album, 12 Songs.
In a 2008 interview, Diamond reflected on the album’s depth, stating, “This record represents a giant step in my evolution as a writer and a recording artist. You will see I’ve gone deeper. It was more painful to write this, maybe the most difficult album I’ve ever written, and maybe my best.” Among the standout tracks was “Act Like a Man,” which Diamond described as an “honest” exploration of his identity as an artist over the decades. He expressed a vulnerability in the song’s lyrics, where he grappled with the authenticity of his life and work.
The lyrics of “Act Like a Man” delve into issues of self-reflection and the challenges of staying grounded amidst the glamour of performing. Lines such as “You know you’re just a worthless daydreamer / But hey dreamer, it’s time to act like a man” capture the inner dialogue of someone reviewing their life’s purpose. Diamond acknowledges the fears that accompany songwriting in another verse, mentioning that it can feel like “playin’ with lightening.”
Upon release, Home Before Dark not only achieved commercial success but also made history. At the age of 67, Diamond became the oldest artist to reach No. 1 on the U.S. charts, surpassing Bob Dylan’s previous record set when he was 65 with Modern Times. This feat marked a significant milestone in Diamond’s career, especially as the competition remained fierce with Dylan reclaiming his title a few years later.
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The album also included two deluxe bonus tracks, one of which featured a tribute to fellow artist Harry Nilsson with a cover of “Without Her,” as well as a rendition of Dylan’s Time Out of Mind classic, “Make You Feel My Love.” Diamond described his collaboration with producer Rick Rubin as an evolution from their earlier work; while 12 Songs served as a foundational album, Home Before Dark exhibited a deeper level of trust and shared vision in the studio.
Diamond expressed that while critical acclaim is appreciated, it doesn’t dictate the creative process. “My music is going to be written or recorded with or without critical acclaim,” he stated. This unwavering commitment to his craft and artistic integrity resonates throughout Home Before Dark, solidifying its place as a pivotal moment in his illustrious career.
