The Unexpected Journey: How a Tribute Inspired a Legend
The Genesis of "Song Sung Blue"
The new film, "Song Sung Blue," directed by Craig Brewer and featuring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, is a compelling narrative that, while not a direct biographical piece on Neil Diamond, prominently features his musical legacy. It tells the real-life tale of Mike and Claire Sardina, two Wisconsinites who find love later in life and achieve remarkable success with their Neil Diamond tribute band, Lightning & Thunder. Their journey to fame was significantly boosted by Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder, who invited them to perform with his band. Although the film depicts them opening for Pearl Jam in Madison, the actual event saw them join the band during an encore at Milwaukee's Summerfest in 1995, adding a layer of creative interpretation to the true story.
Overcoming Obstacles: Eddie Vedder's Intervention
Filmmaker Greg Kohs faced a major hurdle when Diamond's record label issued a cease-and-desist order just before his 2008 documentary, also titled "Song Sung Blue" and focused on the Sardinas, premiered at a film festival. The order prohibited the use of Diamond's music in the film. It was at this critical juncture that Eddie Vedder stepped in. Brewer recounted to Entertainment Weekly how Vedder personally contacted Neil Diamond, shared the documentary with him, and advocated for the film. Diamond, deeply touched by the story, then personally intervened with his publishing company, ensuring that Kohs could use his music, a testament to the power of authentic storytelling and musical connection.
Neil Diamond's Emotional Reception
Brewer detailed how Diamond's family and team observed his viewing of the film. Initially, Brewer was advised that Diamond was typically reserved in his reactions to movies, preferring a more analytical approach. However, to everyone's surprise, Diamond became visibly emotional. He was seen tapping his foot, applauding enthusiastically after each musical segment, and even shedding tears. After the screening, Diamond reportedly asked to watch the film again, a clear indication of his profound connection to the narrative. Brewer expressed his hope that this experience reaffirmed to Diamond the enduring relevance and deep impact of his songwriting, emphasizing that his compositions are born from genuine emotion and resonate deeply with audiences.