Solitary Man

Prior to Diamond's breakthrough as a recording artist he spent several years paying his dues by writing songs for other performers, honing his talent in the process. Pride of place on "A Solitary Man" goes to the Monkees, Cliff Richard, Sadina, Jan Tanzy, the Solitaires, Jay & the Americans, Jimmy Clanton, Billy Fury, Marcie Blane, Ronnie Dove and the Rocky Fellers, all of whom were the recipients of early Diamond numbers he himself never recorded. The rest of the songs date from the latter half of the 60s, most of which are from his spectacular two-year spell at Bang Records. Few artists ever recorded better versions of Neil Diamond's compositions than Arthur Alexander, Lulu, BJ Thomas, the Wanderer's Rest or Bobby Womack. The whole package is enhanced by yet another stylish and informative booklet from compilers Mick Patrick and Tony Rounce.