At age 84, Neil Diamond can look back at a storied career filled with smash tracks like "Song Sung Blue," "I Am...I Said," "Forever in Blue Jeans," and so many more, On October 11, per Parade, the legendary hitmaker was deservedly honored. He got "the Inspirational Lifetime Achievement Award at the 39th Annual Carousel Ball in Denver, Colorado."
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It was a very special evening for the star. He was the recipient of gracious tributes from some remarkable.entertainment business luminaries. In addition, the glittering event "raised over $2 million for the Children's Diabetes Foundation and the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes."
Diamond Was Sincerely Thrilled To Be Recognized
Diamond attended the occasion accompanied by his son Jesse and wife Katie. He has been retired from singing for the past seven years due to Parkinson's disease.
The iconic singer said, "I've been through it all now, and I'm still coming back for more. I remember being a 15-year-old in Brooklyn and dreaming of a day like this... My sincere thanks to Barbara and Dana [Davis] for including me in this beautiful evening... I'm proud to be a champion for this cause and grateful to be part of a night that brings hope to so many. Thank you, thank you, and thank you."
Luke Bryan Charmingly Honored the Legendary Singer
The country music fan-favorite and American Idol judge spoke some heartfelt words for Diamond. Bryan said, "Congratulations, I'm a huge fan of you and all you've done for music... All my career, if I'm losing a crowd, all I gotta do is play 'Sweet Caroline,' and I got 'em back. And my wife's named Caroline, too, so that helps!"
Hugh Jackman Also Spoke Reverently of Diamond
Jackman, the accomplished singer and actor, also said admiring things about Diamond. In a respect-filled video message, he said, "I'm thrilled you're getting this award, because you are inspirational - not just through your music and creativity, but through your heart and your generosity."
He went on to add, "As a performer myself, you inspire me every single day. The way you connect with audiences, the way you connect to your music, the authenticity of who you are, it's everything to me."
The evening was rounded out with performances from the Goo Goo Dolls and Diamond himself. He sang "Sweet Caroline" with the actor who portrayed him in Broadway's A Beautiful Noise Musical, Nick Frandiani.
