Neil Diamond, a famous singer loved by many, stopped performing live in 2018 because he got sick with Parkinson’s disease. That made it hard for him to keep singing on stage. But on March 7, 2020, he surprised everyone by showing up at a special event in Las Vegas.
The event was called the 24th annual Keep Memory Alive Power of Love gala. It helped raise money for the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, a place that helps people with brain problems. Neil didn’t tell anyone he was coming—he just appeared and sang seven of his best songs for 1,500 important guests. He sang “Cracklin’ Rosie,” “Hello Again,” “Forever in Blue Jeans,” “Love on the Rocks,” “I Am … I Said,” “September Morn,” and “Sweet Caroline.”
For his last song, “Sweet Caroline,” some other famous singers joined him on stage: Sammy Hagar, Chris Isaak, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Katlyn Nichol. Everyone was so excited to see Neil again! A newspaper called the Las Vegas Review-Journal said this was his first big public show since August 12, 2017, in California. He hadn’t done a big Las Vegas show since May 17, 2015.
Before Neil sang, the other singers performed some of his songs. Billy Ray Cyrus sang “I’m a Believer,” Chris Isaak sang “Solitary Man,” Kenny Edmonds and Katlyn Nichol sang “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” together, and Sammy Hagar sang “Thank the Lord for the Night Time.” The night also honored two kind people, Sheldon and Dr. Miriam Adelson, who help with medical research and other good causes.
Back in January 2018, Neil told everyone he had to stop doing concerts. He said, “I’m very sad to stop touring. I’ve loved performing for 50 years, and I’m sorry to everyone who bought tickets for my next shows. I’ll keep writing and recording music, though. Thank you to all my fans—you’ve made this so much fun for me!”
Even though he wasn’t supposed to perform anymore, Neil’s surprise in Las Vegas showed how much he loves music and his fans. It was a happy night that made everyone smile!
