From the 1960s to the 1980s, Diamond was one of the more successful pop music performers, scoring a number of hits. As critic William Ruhlmann writes, "as of 2001, he claimed worldwide record sales of 115 million copies, and as of 2002 he was ranked third, behind only Elton John and Barbra Streisand, on the list of the most successful adult contemporary artists in the history of the Billboard chart."[1] As of May 2005 he has sold 120 million records worldwide, including 48 million records in the U.S.[2]
Though his record sales declined somewhat after the 1980s, Diamond continues to tour successfully, and maintains a very loyal following. Diamond's songs have been recorded by a vast array of performers from many different musical genres.
Diamond was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1984, and then in 2000 was given its Sammy Cahn Lifetime Achievement Award. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the early part of 2011.
In 2008 Neil Diamond scored his first ever Billboard number one album with "Home Before Dark", the album also became his first studio album to get to number one in the UK.
Christmas in Killarney
Neil Diamond Lyrics
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The prettiest picture you've ever seen
Is Christmas in Killarney
With all of the folks at home
It's nice, you know, to kiss your beau
While cuddling under the mistletoe
And Santa Claus you know, of course
The door is always open
The neighbors pay a call
And Father John before he's gone
Will bless the house and all
How grand it feels to click your heels
And join in the fun of the jigs and reels
I'm handing you no blarney
The likes you've never known
Is Christmas in Killarney
With all of the folks at home
The lyrics to "Christmas in Killarney" by Neil Diamond evoke a cozy and joyful atmosphere of celebrating Christmas in the Irish town of Killarney. The holly green and ivy green represent the traditional Christmas decorations, creating a picturesque scene that is pleasing to the eye. The mention of "all of the folks at home" emphasizes the warmth and togetherness of spending the holiday with loved ones.
The lyrics depict the romantic aspect of Christmas as well, suggesting that it is a time for couples to come together and share affection. Kissing one's beau under the mistletoe is a cherished tradition, adding a touch of romance and nostalgia to the festivities. Additionally, the mention of Santa Claus being "one of the boys from home" implies that there is a sense of familiarity and community during the holiday season.
The song describes the welcoming nature of the community in Killarney. The door is always open, signifying the hospitality extended to neighbors who come to pay a visit during Christmastime. Moreover, Father John, a local priest, blesses the house and everyone in it before leaving, adding a religious aspect to the celebration.
The lyrics emphasize the joy and energy that fills the air during Christmas in Killarney. Clicking heels and joining in the fun of jigs and reels refers to the lively Irish music and traditional dances associated with the holiday. The singer assures the listener that there is no exaggeration or flattery ("blarney") involved in describing the festive atmosphere of Christmas in Killarney. It is a unique and wonderful experience that one can hardly imagine unless they have experienced it themselves.
Line by Line Meaning
The holly green, the ivy green
The vibrant colors of holly and ivy create a beautiful image
The prettiest picture you've ever seen
It is an incredibly picturesque scene
Is Christmas in Killarney
Christmas in Killarney is a special occasion
With all of the folks at home
Celebrating with all the loved ones
It's nice, you know, to kiss your beau
Sharing a loving moment with your partner
While cuddling under the mistletoe
Wrapped in each other's arms beneath the mistletoe
And Santa Claus you know, of course
Santa Claus, a familiar figure to all
Is one of the boys from home
He is part of the local community
The door is always open
The door is welcoming and open to visitors
The neighbors pay a call
The neighbors come by to visit
And Father John before he's gone
Father John, before departing,
Will bless the house and all
Offers his blessings to the home and its occupants
How grand it feels to click your heels
The joyous feeling of tapping your heels in exuberance
And join in the fun of the jigs and reels
Participating in the lively Irish dances
I'm handing you no blarney
This is not an exaggeration or a deceit
The likes you've never known
An experience like no other you've had
Is Christmas in Killarney
Christmas in Killarney is truly special
With all of the folks at home
Enjoying the holiday with loved ones
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Capitol CMG Publishing, Songtrust Ave, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Frank Weldon, James Cavanaugh, John Redmond
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind