Introduction to Neil Diamond and the Tribute Act Lightning & Thunder
Neil Diamond’s music has been a close companion, unknown to many until they watched “Song Sung Blue.” The film starring Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman is not a musical biography about Neil Diamond, nor should it be confined to the musical genre. “Song Sung Blue” is a tale of human resilience, focusing on the power of music and an invitation to discover Neil Diamond’s work.
The Story of Lightning & Thunder
In the 1980s, Mike and Claire Sardina created a Neil Diamond tribute act called Lightning & Thunder in Milwaukee. Their story sounds like a Hallmark movie plot: Mike, a Vietnam War veteran and recovering alcoholic, wandered through the local bar scene as a session musician before becoming an imitator. Claire Stingl, a single mother and Patsy Cline impersonator, found solace in Neil Diamond’s music. When they met, the couple formed Lightning & Thunder, surprising the tribute circuit in the US. Their success led to opening for Pearl Jam in 1995, thanks to Eddie Vedder’s admiration for Diamond.
The Documentary and Its Impact
Their story was first shared in 2008 as a documentary titled “Song Sung Blue,” directed by Greg Kohs. The film is even more moving as it demonstrates how we use music to cope with hardships and how Neil Diamond’s music helped Mike and Claire Sardina endure their darkest moments.
The Film Adaptation
Directed by Craig Brewer, the film is a cinematic treatment based on the documentary. It highlights Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson’s captivating performances in the lead roles. Hudson received Oscar and Golden Globe nominations for her portrayal of Claire Sardina.
A Tribute to Cover Bands
“Song Sung Blue” is a love letter to tribute bands, often dismissed for lacking originality but helping many exorcise their traumas through their favorite artist’s songs.
Exploring Neil Diamond’s Musical Legacy
“Neil Diamond is much more than ‘Sweet Caroline,'” Mike Sardina asserts in the film, though it’s a song constantly heard at weddings, karaoke, sports events, and with an unforgettable chorus. As “Song Sung Blue” unfolds, Diamond’s musical legacy is revealed, showcasing his prolific songwriting spanning over six decades.
- Genres: Diamond’s music encompasses pop, rock gospel, country, folk, symphonic, Broadway, soul, and more.
- Influence: His songs have been covered by various artists, such as UB40’s “Red Red Wine” and Smash Mouth’s “I’m A Believer,” which has been permanently adopted by Shrek.
- Cinematic Impact: Diamond’s music has been featured in films like “Pulp Fiction” and “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” demonstrating its versatility across genres.
“Song Sung Blue” invites us to rediscover Neil Diamond’s music and listen to his timeless songs with fresh ears.
