Neil Diamond's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Neil Diamond. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Neil Diamond is a highly successful American singer-songwriter, celebrated as one of the best-selling music artists globally, with over 130 million records sold. His career spans decades, marked by numerous hit songs and albums that have resonated with a broad audience. Diamond's musical style blends pop, rock, and folk elements, contributing to his widespread appeal and enduring legacy in the music industry.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

November 1965: "Sunday and Me" Success

In November 1965, Neil Diamond achieved his first success as a songwriter with "Sunday and Me," a Top 20 hit for Jay and the Americans.

Loading Video...

1966: "I'm a Believer" Success

In 1966, Neil Diamond's "I'm a Believer" became a gold record within two days of its release and stayed at the top of the charts for seven weeks, making it the Popular Music Song of the Year.

Loading Video...

February 1977: Triumph in Court

In February 1977, Neil Diamond triumphed in court and purchased the rights to his Bang-era master tapes, resolving a long-standing contract dispute.

1978: "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" Hits No. 1

In 1978, the Neil Diamond-Barbra Streisand duet of "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" hit No. 1 on the charts, becoming Diamond's third song to top the Hot 100.

Loading Video...

1984: Induction into Songwriters Hall of Fame

In 1984, Neil Diamond was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to songwriting.

1986: Most Profitable Solo Performer and TV Special

In 1986, Billboard magazine ranked Neil Diamond as the most profitable solo performer. In 1986, he released his 17th studio album, Headed for the Future, and starred in Hello Again, his first television special in nine years.

Loading Video...

2000: Sammy Cahn Lifetime Achievement Award

In 2000, Neil Diamond received the Sammy Cahn Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating his lifelong contributions to music.

2007: Induction into Long Island Music Hall of Fame

In 2007, Neil Diamond was inducted into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame.

May 6, 2008: Release of Home Before Dark

On May 6, 2008, Neil Diamond's album Home Before Dark was released and topped album charts in New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

February 6, 2009: MusiCares Person of the Year Honor

On February 6, 2009, Neil Diamond was honored as the MusiCares Person of the Year, two nights before the 51st Annual Grammy Awards.

2009: Release of Hot August Night/NYC DVD

In 2009, Neil Diamond released the Hot August Night/NYC DVD, one year after recording his four-night run at Madison Square Garden. The DVD debuted at No. 2 and an edited version aired on CBS, winning its ratings hour.

Loading Video...

March 14, 2011: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

On March 14, 2011, Neil Diamond was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at a ceremony at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City.

2011: Induction into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Kennedy Center Honors

In 2011, Neil Diamond was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and was also an honoree at the Kennedy Center Honors.

August 10, 2012: Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

On August 10, 2012, Neil Diamond received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

2018: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

In 2018, Neil Diamond received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his significant impact on the music industry throughout his career.

2019: "Sweet Caroline" selected for preservation

In 2019, Neil Diamond's 1969 signature song "Sweet Caroline" was selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Recording Registry.

Loading Video...

March 7, 2020: Performance at Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala

On March 7, 2020, despite his retirement due to Parkinson's disease, Neil Diamond gave a rare performance at the Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala in Las Vegas, where he was being honored.