It was the first time they sang this together. For the album, due to professional commitments, they each performed their parts on separate coasts, and a recording company mixed them. This is one of the top truly magical moments in television history.
February 27, 1980 “It might very well have been the first Grammy moment ... they [had] never performed the song “live” together, so on February 27, 1980, the lights dimmed at the Shrine Auditorium and Barbara and Neil took the stage to sing one of the classic television duets of all time.” And what a time it was!❤
@@currawongs Yes, she is "an actress who sings," as she always insisted from the very beginning. I'm so glad I got to grow up with her magic in the background.
One of the best duets of all time. No fancy staging, no exaggerated musical scores. Just two voices communicating human emotions to the audience. Yes, please.
Omg brilliant🤣🤣, im going to pin this comment. Today is a joke, mainstream music is all controlled and most cant sing, once voice filters, removed and all the theatrics on stage. Non at all here and its one of the best duets, live performance in its genre of all time i think. Bless you you lol
This was 43 years ago. I hope I never forget watching this on the Grammy’s. The way Neil looks at her, the way she touches his face at the end. True chemistry!
A moment not to be forgotten. Very few people were aware that they would be on the Grammy telecast that evening ,adding to the vibe that STILL brings tears and chills. One of a kind performance.
There's a story to that. Meeting back stage before their performance, Streisand had stage anxiety and admitted to N. Diamond that she didn't think she could go through with it. Apparently, Mr. Diamond said, "Keep your eyes on mine. You'll be fine." From the video, you can see she does just that. After acknowledging the audience, she looks at him and never looks at the audience again. And guess what? She was fine. Likely that's why she reached out and tenderly touched his cheek. Her "thank you for bringing me through this". I loved his chivalrous response by grasping her hand. While I'm not a huge fan of either of them, I love that moment.
Ikr. I think I would faint too. He was too much in that performance. He was so protective of Barbra because she was terribly nervous. A magical performance…
@khobia2 I teared up during this, the same as I did the night it played live. There is no true emotion in "music" today...lots of aggression, as you rightly alluded to. WE came from a time before cell phones, selfies, Ipads, autotune. We came from a HUMAN time, before AI voiced and generated videos...It was so, as you said my friend, "Beautiful and respectful." Take care, Be Well!
I was working the evening this aired. My sister told me described it beautifully, explaining the magic and chemistry. She sadly told me I would never get to see the performance. She sadly lost her battle with Cancer in 1982. I think of her ever time I watch. I have felt her with me a few times, she is glad she was wrong.
The way he looks at Barbara as he sings this beautiful song simply takes my breath away. His voice and talent even touched a young girl of 10 back in the 70s. Sweet Caroline is still one of my favorites
@@pattyhaley2949 yeah good song. Sweeeet Caroline dun dun dun how the good times never last??? Can't remember lyrics lol but then a bit of Doo da do do.. I watched the jazz singer when I was about 12 with my mum an I really liked it . Good songs too. Actually I'm gonna find an upload some Neil diamond soon I need a refresher it's been so long. I'm 47 but bless my mum forever otherwise I woukd never of experienced some of the truly talented singers and amazing love songs you just dont get today
@@Drop_Of--Flame I absolutely adore Neil Diamond and I was very young when my friend's brother introduced me to the music of the great Mr Diamond. I'm 63 and have been a fan since the age of 10 or so. Luckily I was able to see him in 2017 before he had to retire. Such a great entertainer and always easy on the eyes. I still say Neil and Elvis were the greatest performers to rock a pair of leather pants.....
@@pattyhaley2949 yes agreed. Elvis what a beautiful man an love some of his songs. He basically changed music an to think he was called the devil cause of his moves and look at today lol even I think some of it is nasty. So you saw Neil D in 2017 lucky you an May that same year my favourite artist of all time an VERY EASY ON THE EYE died that year. So gutted. He started in mid 80s and done so much. Different bands an solo stuff over the years. Voice of an angel. Well atleast 2017 was a good year for one of us lol
@@pattyhaley2949 I forgot all about this little chestnut an it just popped in my head while hanging the washing. You may or may not like but it's definitely an amazing duet. Nothing like these songs an love duets anymore. Sad really th-cam.com/video/JM_R1R28kLM/w-d-xo.html
Barbra said in her book she was nervous and her voice wobbled when she was walking toward him, she told herself to get it together girl. It was hardly noticeable. Wonderful performance.
Barbara didn't perform live for 27 years (during one point of her career), you can see the relief on her face and her gesture as they walked off the stage.
There is no music, there are no singers like Barbara Streisand and Neil Diamond anymore. This was a performance for the ages. Two incredible talents sharing a few moments and creating something we will never stop watching.
It's still a knockout punch every time I watch it. You are just amazed at the sheer, raw talent of the likes of Neil Diamond and Barbara Streisand - and when you put them together for this duet it is just pure magic. The audience who were there on the night gave a standing ovation, which I'm sure went for many minutes, as they knew they were the presence of a performance that would never be equalled again. You just don't see talent like that anymore.....
This was truly the greatest moment of Grammy's history. The duet between Barbara Streisand and Neil Diamond was the most beautiful and touching moment for the two super stars coming together and performing this beautiful song.
I still love how Neil Diamond lets Barbra Streisand shine in this piece. Even though he could easily overpower her, he is the consummate gentle-man here. Just beautiful!
Overpowering her? What are you talking about? Are you saying Neil is a better singer or are you simply implying he could overpower her in strength? If it’s the latter, then you are ridiculous. If it’s the former, then you are even more ridiculous. It’s very obvious who is having a higher pitch in this duet.
Kids were in bed, I was watching The Grammy’s in a dark living room and suddenly the stage went black…a spot landed on Neil and I got super excited ( had just gone to a concert earlier that year in Houston TX) Crowd went wild and he started singing…camera broadens and I saw Barbra and it was pure magic!!! I still can’t believe I happen to have some time for tv that specific night. It is forever etched in my being! Never loses its magic. He was already my fave guy singer and I have the deepest respect for her talent…but Wow! Just Wow!
It's insane how they can connect with all of us just by singing and having eye contact and minimum physical contact with each other. This is what the new generation is missing out. 🔥❤️
Yes, for sure. Wish we could go back to a time where folks loved each other more and had values! Always a pleasure tho hearing this once again. Then, an unbeatable pair!
I watched this when it first aired during the Grammy’s, no introduction they just walked onto the dark stage. Super cool, still the all time greatest duet!
It has to do with A TON…!The fact that you are commenting “what that got to do with it” especially considering the abhorrent recent hostility toward Israel and the Jews. I leave you to your own personal “ Quiet”opinion…. I knew in my head what your profile would be, age, demographic, political affiliation, IQ, and ability to be EMPATHETIC. Normadezmond6017. Maybe you meant it differently…and you know the history Judea…..Jews have been in ISRAEL since Jesus!they have roots to to core of the earth and let’s not forget that itty bitty thing called the HOLOCAUST. We should be SUPPORTING ALL THE ICONS, ENTERTAINERS, and DIRECTORS. If you don’t decide to do that and support Palestine…may the WRATH OF GOD OR ALLAH CUSH YOU LIKE A BUG!!! Again if you meant it some other way I apologize. Regards 😊
My mother worshipped Barbra Streisand. She played this song all the time... when I was a young person..I am 50 now...her marriage to my father wasn't a fairytale...my mom wanted to be "cherished". she would tell me repeatedly...my father did cherish her, they just couldn't communicate.. yet they were together over 50 years...until he died at their home in 2010....she died earlier this year... I found all these greeting cards that my dad had given my mom...she kept every single card...and there was an intimacy...there was..and a loyalty....they just couldn't put pride aside... Miss them both very much...
After winning a bride men don't think they have to do anymore. Most women go about their daily duties. Men go about theirs. But there is very little left for intimacy. Very sad, but true.
Awe to be serenaded by a handsome man like Neil Diamond. I was just a young girl when I fell for him and his music. This duet with the Great Barbara Streisand is pure MAGIC!!!!
This respect and chemistry is genuine. They were HS chums!!! Two friends who made it and helped change the course of music. I wish they perform this live at least one more time
I don't think there was a doubt in a single member of that live audience that they were witnessing history--thrilling, tingling, electrifying. Look for a tape of the performance that shows it from the very, very beginning--where Neil and Barbra appear on opposite sides of the stage, pause, and then slowly start walking toward each other. You see, their appearance was a surprise; no one knew they were going to perform; and as they started walking toward each other, slowly but surely the audience recognizes who they are...and as you can imagine, they go crazy! :) I was living in a small apartment in New York and was in another room because of a commercial...and suddenly I heard these delighted cheers. I rushed back to my small TV, and there they were, walking toward each other. I was stunned, and then got really moved. An unforgettable moment on television. :)
Neil Diamond you were a perfect gentleman purchasing Barbra Streisand's I also can't believe the two of you went to high school together in New York and we're in choir. There won't be any great artists like Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond 💎. They were a great classical act. That's when the Grammys were really good in the Late 1970,s and the1980s and to give two great artists a standing ovation at the Grammys in February 27,1980.
Beautiful isn't it compare this to what is classed as main stream music today. Not only no soul but dam filth really. Amazing how quick it all changes. Its not even about talent an heart anymore. I love lots of these old songs but I'm really into old grunge rock music an even the best of them have all gone now. Music is all but dead in any worth while genres sadly
A beautiful song sung by two beautiful people. Such chemistry between the two of them. Hard to believe this was released as a single originally. One of the best duets in my opinion. Something rarely seen today.
According to Casey Kasem, it wasn't even a duet originally. Each artist coincidentally released it as a solo song on their own albums, and a Louisville, Kentucky DJ named Gary Guthrie edited a bootleg mashup that got airplay and attention. We actually have him to thank for them deciding to revisit this, and record it as a duet.
I’ve seen him do quite a few duets … Linda Press, Shirley Bassey, Barbra etc and he always is so polite and encouraging. He always puts the female he is singing with at ease and on a pinnacle when they are singing with him. How could you not fall in love with his talent, his lyrics , his musicality ❤
This is perfection! Barbara is beautiful, her eyes, and her voice! Wow! Neil, perfect gentleman, and keeping eye contact all the way thru,.... Beautiful! I have to watch it two or three times every time and always takes my breath!
This song never gets old for me. Not a truer song has ever been written. Love these guys. Barbara such a unbelievable voice. Leaves a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye every time I listen and I've never been married. just feel this is the way it usually ends for most. "Hopeless romantic"
I watched it as a young girl. I saw them approach from the wings of the stage as the music began and was spellbound at what was happening before my eyes. I could feel the electricity through the screen. No one knew it was going to take place. Pure magic
So worth coming back to often! 🥰👍👌 It is simply beautiful--Barbra's voice and Neil's sultry looks! 💞💞Always brings a tear to my eyes--when my husband was alive I would say, "I don't care if you pick Dandelions; just bring me flowers!" 💐
Barbra’s memoir brought me here. She wrote that she was so nervous. However, during rehearsal the producer has a bouquet of flowers on a stool in the middle of the stage. She asked it to be removed because the song is YOU DONT bring me flowers. LOL! Great direction by Barbra
Just love love Neil. The ultimate singer and performer. Gorgeous with Barbara. Worst thing ever that he got sick. The worlds not the same when hes not singing.
From Neil Diamond's dynamic live performances I get the sense he could have easily overpowered Barbara Streisand but is holding back so as not to. There's a magic about this duet that gets me every time. You can see it got to everyone else in the audience too, by their reaction during, and at the end of the song. Thank you to these two legendary artists for a duet that is one for the ages!
I’ve just watched this over and over again. Barbra is so very nervous and who wouldn’t be singing a superstar like Neil Diamonds song not only with him but at the Grammys having only ever sung it together over the phone. I take my hat off to him regarding the advice he gave her and how his performance was so relaxed . It would have helped her calm her nerves. Absolutely beautiful rendition from both❤
@@mikelheron20 They both and superstars, each in their own right. I'm sure he was equally as nervous as she was. Especially having sung this for the first time live on stage. Two beautiful souls and treasures to this world. 🥰🥰
Barbra at the end of the song says “ Thanks” to which Neil replies “ you’re welcome.” Like the first comment here… no dancers, special effects, no bare skin etc. just fantastic talent!!
This song always makes me think of watching my parent’s relationship fall apart. Perfect that it’s sung by Barbra…thank you Barbra for giving my mother such joy in her short life. She played all of your songs to me. I love me some Barbra because of her. This is beautiful, and an amazing performance by both. Always makes me sad, but it’s so beautiful I still listen to it.
I was only 3 years old then, but why isn’t music like this anymore. All time geniuses in the world of music and know one to replace them once they are all gone 😢 Even my 14 year old daughter is listening to music from 25 years ago now.
I had forgotten what a gorgeous man Neil was back then..and the way he looked at Barbra really sucked you totally into the feelings they were creating. Very few duets capture the emotion a love song is supposed to embrace...Bradley and lady gaga at the Oscar's also made that happen...but can anyone out there think of any others ... this was a rare spectacular performance...
A good bit of acting going on as well as singing. The whole performance was first class. They start out far apart from each other, then as the song progresses, they get closer and closer to each other, until they reconnect at the end. The record itself - before the performance - hints at a reconciliation between the two by the way they first sing the line "So you'd think I could learn how to tell you goodbye," in contrast to the way they sing the line the second time. They first sing it in syncopated time (for the musically unlearned, that means one starts to sing the line and then the other starts singing the same line before the first one gets done singing it. Kind of singing "around", as in row row row your boat), and then the second time they sing the line at the same time. They are then getting back in sync with each other, which hints to a reconciliation. At least, that's how I choose to view the song. The physical contact between the two at the end is more or less a confirmation of the reconciliation.
I watched the live Neil diamond concert of 1986 on VHS when I was a child. I was under 10 years old and my parents played that concert a lot and my siblings and I grew up listening to that concert so much. We all love Neil Diamond. We all even saw him live at the Houston Rodeo. Amazing!!!! My Dad is now passed so now, I can’t hear this without crying. Love this so much.
Truly a class act, I was impressed by the way Neil was able to re-establish eye contact with Barbara. It is very subtle, so you must watch closely to catch this; young performers could learn a lot here.
This duet is just heartbreaking and phenomenal!! Barbra is my Queen!!!! Her voice is absolute perfection and Neil’s voice fits hers so flawlessly. Real voices - NO AUTOTUNE!! 🎤🥹❤️❤️❤️❤️🔥🔥🔥🔥👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
It was a DJ who noticed they had separately recorded the song but in the same key, so he cut it together himself. It was such a hit, Neil and Babs decided to make an official recording.
This was a performance of two talents beyond the scale of human experience. It transcended the song, the moment, even the artists own capabilities. Songs just are not performed this way any longer. The audience had no choice but to be mesmerized by these two artists at the top of their craft! Thank you Neil & Barbara!
Not much the performance or vocals as it is their chemistry. Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, and plenty of other artists have put on way better performances.
Do you cry at beauty? This recording is the test. In my opinion, one of the ten most beautiful songs of all time that really moves me every time I hear it.
I remember watching this. I was just a kid. Kind of liking the melody. But what really stood out to was “Barbara” was dressed like my “mom”. And over the years, like many, I got it.
It was the first time they sang this together. For the album, due to professional commitments, they each performed their parts on separate coasts, and a recording company mixed them. This is one of the top truly magical moments in television history.
👀
When did this first air?
@@mysticaltyger2009 I believe it was the Grammy Awards of 1980.
February 27, 1980
“It might very well have been the first Grammy moment ... they [had] never performed the song “live” together, so on February 27, 1980, the lights dimmed at the Shrine Auditorium and Barbara and Neil took the stage to sing one of the classic television duets of all time.”
And what a time it was!❤
@@Steve-yo4ld Would have been nice to have been there.
Barbra writes in her autobiography that the moment she touches Neil's face was unplanned. A spur of the moment thing. The audience loved it
It 's like she touched Redfords face during The way we were, I guess.
She really gets into the lyrics, since she is an actor also.
@@currawongs Yes, she is "an actress who sings," as she always insisted from the very beginning. I'm so glad I got to grow up with her magic in the background.
How he holds onto her hand and then kisses it ...magic!
And how he looks at her…to die for. 💕💕
One of the best duets of all time. No fancy staging, no exaggerated musical scores. Just two voices communicating human emotions to the audience. Yes, please.
Hi Cindy hope you're okay??
2 of the BEST EVER voices too Cindy, You just Don’t get this anymore! I have Loved this song for Years and will Always love it ! X
And the second greatest is Barbra with Donna Summer!
Cindy, i appreciate this recording, and now this video, in the same way you do. Thank God i can still hear it play on in my head.
No dancers, no auto tune, and covered from head to toe. How in the world did they get a standing ovation? Oh yeah, it's called talent.
Liking it!🤣
It's called REAL Talent, something we don't see much of today!! P S you're an IDIOT!!!
100% Klasse 😍
And class
Omg brilliant🤣🤣, im going to pin this comment. Today is a joke, mainstream music is all controlled and most cant sing, once voice filters, removed and all the theatrics on stage. Non at all here and its one of the best duets, live performance in its genre of all time i think. Bless you you lol
I heard that Streisand had such terrible stage fright before this performance. Diamond said “just keep your eyes on me.”
Yes!!! I remember Neil Diamond telling that story.
It's true, it's why she doesn't do love music or your often. She literally throws up before a show.
How tender
Well... he is the best.
This song always brings tears to my eyes. Who's listening in 2024.
Me!!! It got stuck in my head!
Listen from my hospital bed this morning... lungs full of inflammation
@@Tanman-lk1hkI hope the healing power of this gorgeous song speeds you to a full recovery soon!
@@Kaw72774 thank you
I just heard it again . Still a classic song!😊
This was 43 years ago. I hope I never forget watching this on the Grammy’s. The way Neil looks at her, the way she touches his face at the end. True chemistry!
That was her “signature move” with Robert Redford in The Way We Were. She timed it perfectly!
Beautiful
I remember seeing this on the Grammys. Still gives me goosebumps. Just phenomenal talent
That would be ‘nineteen-eighty.
A moment not to be forgotten. Very few people were aware that they would be on the Grammy telecast that evening ,adding to the vibe that STILL brings tears and chills. One of a kind performance.
After fourty five years it still brings tears to my eyes. What a magnificent performance.
Yes, I agree, this is Magnificence!
Same here it’s absolutely beautiful 💞
I’m crying!!
Possibly the best Grammy performance ever, and that’s not hyperbole.
I love how he locks eyes with her WITHOUT BREAKING for the entire song.
If he looked at me that way, I would faint. What a beautiful man inside and out.
@@MicheleHuffman-d8clol😅😅😅😅
There's a story to that. Meeting back stage before their performance, Streisand had stage anxiety and admitted to N. Diamond that she didn't think she could go through with it. Apparently, Mr. Diamond said, "Keep your eyes on mine. You'll be fine." From the video, you can see she does just that. After acknowledging the audience, she looks at him and never looks at the audience again. And guess what? She was fine. Likely that's why she reached out and tenderly touched his cheek. Her "thank you for bringing me through this". I loved his chivalrous response by grasping her hand. While I'm not a huge fan of either of them, I love that moment.
@@colleenhonderich1598 Thank you for that.
Ikr. I think I would faint too. He was too much in that performance. He was so protective of Barbra because she was terribly nervous. A magical performance…
This is back when the Grammy's had class.
Certainly did have class and real talent back in the day, same with Oscars...can't be bothered watching either anymore 😔 🇦🇺
you two do realize that old folks repeated the same thing about your favorites back in the day?
We're the lucky ones who were able to watch this in our living rooms and not on TH-cam. Loved it then and love it now. We grew up with the best music.
How can you not watch this by two of the most amazing solo artists and not cry and think they were ''making love'' on stage
It's known as lyrics love.
I forgot how much I loved this song and how much it made me cry... TY, I am a 68 yr old woman, bless you both!!! ❤❤❤😢
When music was beautiful and respectful. No dawgs or bitches invited. Thank God I grew up in this time.
Same here buddy
@khobia2 I teared up during this, the same as I did the night it played live. There is no true emotion in "music" today...lots of aggression, as you rightly alluded to. WE came from a time before cell phones, selfies, Ipads, autotune. We came from a HUMAN time, before AI voiced and generated videos...It was so, as you said my friend, "Beautiful and respectful." Take care, Be Well!
Those were great days 😊
Me too
Me too
great song. Whats really more interesting Barbra and Neil attended the same high school graduated the same class and had choir together.
Really? 😃😱❤️
How amazing is this
I was working the evening this aired. My sister told me described it beautifully, explaining the magic and chemistry. She sadly told me I would never get to see the performance. She sadly lost her battle with Cancer in 1982. I think of her ever time I watch. I have felt her with me a few times, she is glad she was wrong.
What a lovely memory to have of her. You are blessed ❤
The best live performance I have ever seen. 😊
yes. in this genre for me hands down a winner, so beautifull
The one she did with Barry Gibb was also beautiful. Give the girl a well written co.pusition and she'll make it perfect.
Heart's "Stairway to Heaven" tops it, but this is close.
This never gets old. It's an absolute masterclass in how to perform a duet. ❤❤
Absolutely! Makes me Cry Everytime too 🤦🏻♂️ lol 💖
Agreed 💫🫶
perhaps the BEST duet EVER broadcast on live television.
The quiet power of Neil's voice is such that it doesn't even get lost in Barbara's amazing vocal acrobatics 🥰❣
The way he looks at Barbara as he sings this beautiful song simply takes my breath away. His voice and talent even touched a young girl of 10 back in the 70s. Sweet Caroline is still one of my favorites
@@pattyhaley2949 yeah good song. Sweeeet Caroline dun dun dun how the good times never last??? Can't remember lyrics lol but then a bit of
Doo da do do.. I watched the jazz singer when I was about 12 with my mum an I really liked it . Good songs too. Actually I'm gonna find an upload some Neil diamond soon I need a refresher it's been so long. I'm 47 but bless my mum forever otherwise I woukd never of experienced some of the truly talented singers and amazing love songs you just dont get today
@@Drop_Of--Flame I absolutely adore Neil Diamond and I was very young when my friend's brother introduced me to the music of the great Mr Diamond. I'm 63 and have been a fan since the age of 10 or so. Luckily I was able to see him in 2017 before he had to retire. Such a great entertainer and always easy on the eyes. I still say Neil and Elvis were the greatest performers to rock a pair of leather pants.....
@@pattyhaley2949 yes agreed. Elvis what a beautiful man an love some of his songs. He basically changed music an to think he was called the devil cause of his moves and look at today lol even I think some of it is nasty. So you saw Neil D in 2017 lucky you an May that same year my favourite artist of all time an VERY EASY ON THE EYE died that year. So gutted. He started in mid 80s and done so much. Different bands an solo stuff over the years. Voice of an angel. Well atleast 2017 was a good year for one of us lol
@@pattyhaley2949 I forgot all about this little chestnut an it just popped in my head while hanging the washing. You may or may not like but it's definitely an amazing duet. Nothing like these songs an love duets anymore. Sad really
th-cam.com/video/JM_R1R28kLM/w-d-xo.html
Neil never tried to outshine anybody….He didn’t have to! What a shining star! Amazing in every way!
They’re equals.
He's a true gentleman. From many interviews I've seen of him, he's a super nice person.
Barbra said in her book she was nervous and her voice wobbled when she was walking toward him, she told herself to get it together girl. It was hardly noticeable. Wonderful performance.
Barbara didn't perform live for 27 years (during one point of her career), you can see the relief on her face and her gesture as they walked off the stage.
There is no music, there are no singers like Barbara Streisand and Neil Diamond anymore. This was a performance for the ages. Two incredible talents sharing a few moments and creating something we will never stop watching.
That…. Right there…. Is perfection.
Back when the Grammys mattered
Word
Two of the greats. Barbra’s clarity and Neil’s warmth is a perfect match.
such a good observation!
If a man ever looked at me that way, I would never let him get away.
Very well spoken.
I know right! Pure unadulturated raw passion. My My My!
Yes I couldn't agree more, I'd melt like a puddle at his feet, WOW ❤
Hahaha so very true. I look like I can only dream about🫶💫
Ikr. I would melt and cause a mess on the floor.💕💕
It's still a knockout punch every time I watch it. You are just amazed at the sheer, raw talent of the likes of Neil Diamond and Barbara Streisand - and when you put them together for this duet it is just pure magic. The audience who were there on the night gave a standing ovation, which I'm sure went for many minutes, as they knew they were the presence of a performance that would never be equalled again. You just don't see talent like that anymore.....
*Barbra
@@calisongbird No one asked you and who cares
Just think they went to the same High School.
Neil Diamond is saved because of my prayers also🙂
@@calisongbird Original spelling of her name was 'Barbara' but early in her career, her manager suggested dropping the middle 'a'...
This was truly the greatest moment of Grammy's history. The duet between Barbara Streisand and Neil Diamond was the most beautiful and touching moment for the two super stars coming together and performing this beautiful song.
I still love how Neil Diamond lets Barbra Streisand shine in this piece. Even though he could easily overpower her, he is the consummate gentle-man here. Just beautiful!
Barbara and Neil are equals. They complement each other. Both shine together.
Dont tell Barbara.. 😀
Overpowering her? What are you talking about? Are you saying Neil is a better singer or are you simply implying he could overpower her in strength? If it’s the latter, then you are ridiculous. If it’s the former, then you are even more ridiculous. It’s very obvious who is having a higher pitch in this duet.
True gentleman… freedom…
He let's her shine? Um, ok.
Kids were in bed, I was watching The Grammy’s in a dark living room and suddenly the stage went black…a spot landed on Neil and I got super excited ( had just gone to a concert earlier that year in Houston TX) Crowd went wild and he started singing…camera broadens and I saw Barbra and it was pure magic!!! I still can’t believe I happen to have some time for tv that specific night. It is forever etched in my being! Never loses its magic. He was already my fave guy singer and I have the deepest respect for her talent…but Wow! Just Wow!
No computer gimmicks, Raw talent, Really Amazing live performance. Thank you.
It's insane how they can connect with all of us just by singing and having eye contact and minimum physical contact with each other. This is what the new generation is missing out. 🔥❤️
There’s no connection of any kind today only the illusion of connection with technology. Sad.
Yes, for sure. Wish we could go back to a time where folks loved each other more and had values! Always a pleasure tho hearing this once again. Then, an unbeatable pair!
I applaud all your comments and say the same, FANTASTIC and SPOT ON!!
In my book, this is the BEST DUET in the history of music!!!
They sing emotion together like no other duo!!!
Have a look at Neil singing Play Me with Shirley Bassey. The same emotions and the eye contact ❤
@@shirleyhenriksen2026 thank you for the suggestion. I will definatly look it up. Neil will always be number 1 with me.
Try War & Treaty singing “ O Holy Night”. Something special Al about them and their eye contact…
One of the best duets in my lifetime. Truely amazing.
One of the best duets and performances of all time. The moment she touches his face just sends chills.
I watched this when it first aired during the Grammy’s, no introduction they just walked onto the dark stage. Super cool, still the all time greatest duet!
The emotions of this performance still hit, decades later
This is theatrical. The singing is just part of the act. But the talent is unreal.
A good Jewish boy and Jewish girl making beautiful music together ❤️
what's that got to do with it?
@@normadesmond6017 Everything. Go and have a wee think to yourself.
❤❤ ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️BOOM….thank you!
It has to do with A TON…!The fact that you are commenting “what that got to do with it” especially considering the abhorrent recent hostility toward Israel and the Jews. I leave you to your own personal “ Quiet”opinion….
I knew in my head what your profile would be, age, demographic, political affiliation, IQ, and ability to be EMPATHETIC.
Normadezmond6017.
Maybe you meant it differently…and you know the history Judea…..Jews have been in ISRAEL since Jesus!they have roots to to core of the earth and let’s not forget that itty bitty thing called the HOLOCAUST. We should be SUPPORTING ALL THE ICONS, ENTERTAINERS, and DIRECTORS. If you don’t decide to do that and support Palestine…may the WRATH OF GOD OR ALLAH CUSH YOU LIKE A BUG!!!
Again if you meant it some other way I apologize. Regards 😊
They went to the same middle or high school in New York
My mother worshipped Barbra Streisand. She played this song all the time... when I was a young person..I am 50 now...her marriage to my father wasn't a fairytale...my mom wanted to be "cherished". she would tell me repeatedly...my father did cherish her, they just couldn't communicate.. yet they were together over 50 years...until he died at their home in 2010....she died earlier this year...
I found all these greeting cards that my dad had given my mom...she kept every single card...and there was an intimacy...there was..and a loyalty....they just couldn't put pride aside...
Miss them both very much...
I know just how your mother felt. This song hits me right in the feels, too, for the same reason.
I have lost my parents too, it's sad x
thks, for sharing a hug - hope you being loved, live long
After winning a bride men don't think they have to do anymore. Most women go about their daily duties. Men go about theirs. But there is very little left for intimacy. Very sad, but true.
Pride , Yes a hard thing to put aside
Awe to be serenaded by a handsome man like Neil Diamond. I was just a young girl when I fell for him and his music. This duet with the Great Barbara Streisand is pure MAGIC!!!!
Hi Patty hope you're okay??
These were two musical Giants that came together, to record and sing one of the best duets ever done. Period.
This was absolutely magical moment. The chemistry, the performers, simply unforgettable.
This respect and chemistry is genuine. They were HS chums!!! Two friends who made it and helped change the course of music. I wish they perform this live at least one more time
They were in the same HS and overlapped but didn’t know each other.
I don't think there was a doubt in a single member of that live audience that they were witnessing history--thrilling, tingling, electrifying. Look for a tape of the performance that shows it from the very, very beginning--where Neil and Barbra appear on opposite sides of the stage, pause, and then slowly start walking toward each other. You see, their appearance was a surprise; no one knew they were going to perform; and as they started walking toward each other, slowly but surely the audience recognizes who they are...and as you can imagine, they go crazy! :) I was living in a small apartment in New York and was in another room because of a commercial...and suddenly I heard these delighted cheers. I rushed back to my small TV, and there they were, walking toward each other. I was stunned, and then got really moved. An unforgettable moment on television. :)
Neil Diamond you were a perfect gentleman purchasing Barbra Streisand's I also can't believe the two of you went to high school together in New York and we're in choir. There won't be any great artists like Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond 💎. They were a great classical act. That's when the Grammys were really good in the Late 1970,s and the1980s and to give two great artists a standing ovation at the Grammys in February 27,1980.
Barbara and Neil, greatest voices in the World!
They deserved an Oscar for this performance👋👋👋👋👋
Pure, straight up, unadulterated magic. I get a chill every time I watch this, and that’s a lot of times.
Beautiful isn't it compare this to what is classed as main stream music today. Not only no soul but dam filth really. Amazing how quick it all changes. Its not even about talent an heart anymore. I love lots of these old songs but I'm really into old grunge rock music an even the best of them have all gone now. Music is all but dead in any worth while genres sadly
Beautiful 🌬 🏂🏂
Your subscribed to Ol Rus too * Russell brand*
I still get chills over this being the first time they actually were in the same room singing this for the first time.
A beautiful song sung by two beautiful people. Such chemistry between the two of them. Hard to believe this was released as a single originally.
One of the best duets in my opinion. Something rarely seen today.
According to Casey Kasem, it wasn't even a duet originally. Each artist coincidentally released it as a solo song on their own albums, and a Louisville, Kentucky DJ named Gary Guthrie edited a bootleg mashup that got airplay and attention. We actually have him to thank for them deciding to revisit this, and record it as a duet.
@@nightmaretoys5309Barbra Streisand mentions this in her memoir. She also tells the story of this performance.
I’ve seen him do quite a few duets … Linda Press, Shirley Bassey, Barbra etc and he always is so polite and encouraging. He always puts the female he is singing with at ease and on a pinnacle when they are singing with him. How could you not fall in love with his talent, his lyrics , his musicality ❤
This is perfection! Barbara is beautiful, her eyes, and her voice! Wow! Neil, perfect gentleman, and keeping eye contact all the way thru,.... Beautiful! I have to watch it two or three times every time and always takes my breath!
This song never gets old for me. Not a truer song has ever been written. Love these guys. Barbara such a unbelievable voice. Leaves a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye every time I listen and I've never been married. just feel this is the way it usually ends for most. "Hopeless romantic"
Shame that duets like this don’t happen anymore
How about Magan and her stallion?😅
Uh oh boomer alert ⬆️
because he didnt bring flowers anymore lol
@@embracedchimera5886 did you see the price of flowers 💐 these days?😳
Not true... Pink with what's- his- name, just give me a reason...
I watched it as a young girl. I saw them approach from the wings of the stage as the music began and was spellbound at what was happening before my eyes. I could feel the electricity through the screen. No one knew it was going to take place. Pure magic
Neil has been a part of my life since my teens and the absolute expressiveness in Barbaras voice is magic.
So worth coming back to often! 🥰👍👌 It is simply beautiful--Barbra's voice and Neil's sultry looks! 💞💞Always brings a tear to my eyes--when my husband was alive I would say, "I don't care if you pick Dandelions; just bring me flowers!" 💐
A wonderful memory
Welcome back! 🎉❤
Barbra’s memoir brought me here. She wrote that she was so nervous. However, during rehearsal the producer has a bouquet of flowers on a stool in the middle of the stage. She asked it to be removed because the song is YOU DONT bring me flowers. LOL! Great direction by Barbra
Just love love Neil. The ultimate singer and performer. Gorgeous with Barbara. Worst thing ever that he got sick. The worlds not the same when hes not singing.
Parkinson are an awful desease...my brother in law had it...
His music lives on forever through all his recordings and, of course, in my head.
From Neil Diamond's dynamic live performances I get the sense he could have easily overpowered Barbara Streisand but is holding back so as not to. There's a magic about this duet that gets me every time. You can see it got to everyone else in the audience too, by their reaction during, and at the end of the song. Thank you to these two legendary artists for a duet that is one for the ages!
Overpower one of the greatest pop singers to ever live? I dont think so.
Overpowered Barbra ?!
When singers were really SINGERS.
I’ve just watched this over and over again. Barbra is so very nervous and who wouldn’t be singing a superstar like Neil Diamonds song not only with him but at the Grammys having only ever sung it together over the phone. I take my hat off to him regarding the advice he gave her and how his performance was so relaxed . It would have helped her calm her nerves. Absolutely beautiful rendition from both❤
Barbra Streisand was a superstar long before Neil Diamond. If anyone should have been nervous it should I have been him.
@@mikelheron20 They both and superstars, each in their own right. I'm sure he was equally as nervous as she was. Especially having sung this for the first time live on stage. Two beautiful souls and treasures to this world. 🥰🥰
I watched this live and was in tears with chills too!! Stunning!!!
Barbra at the end of the song says “ Thanks” to which Neil replies “ you’re welcome.” Like the first comment here… no dancers, special effects, no bare skin etc. just fantastic talent!!
This song always makes me think of watching my parent’s relationship fall apart. Perfect that it’s sung by Barbra…thank you Barbra for giving my mother such joy in her short life. She played all of your songs to me. I love me some Barbra because of her. This is beautiful, and an amazing performance by both. Always makes me sad, but it’s so beautiful I still listen to it.
Kinda same for me too. Blessings and love to the 2 beautiful mothers who gave us the gift of such amazing music also 💞💞💫🙏🙏
What a beautiful song by two amazing legendary legends
WOW The chemistry between those two is splashing from my screen.
I was only 3 years old then, but why isn’t music like this anymore. All time geniuses in the world of music and know one to replace them once they are all gone 😢 Even my 14 year old daughter is listening to music from 25 years ago now.
Love this so much. I’m still just a younger fella but damn this was so amazing. Both of them. Iconic.
Amazing to think that these two were in the same high school choir!
2 voices that will last for generation's to come. And make them feel like we feel. Pure gold.
❤
I had forgotten what a gorgeous man Neil was back then..and the way he looked at Barbra really sucked you totally into the feelings they were creating. Very few duets capture the emotion a love song is supposed to embrace...Bradley and lady gaga at the Oscar's also made that happen...but can anyone out there think of any others ... this was a rare spectacular performance...
A good bit of acting going on as well as singing. The whole performance was first class. They start out far apart from each other, then as the song progresses, they get closer and closer to each other, until they reconnect at the end. The record itself - before the performance - hints at a reconciliation between the two by the way they first sing the line "So you'd think I could learn how to tell you goodbye," in contrast to the way they sing the line the second time. They first sing it in syncopated time (for the musically unlearned, that means one starts to sing the line and then the other starts singing the same line before the first one gets done singing it. Kind of singing "around", as in row row row your boat), and then the second time they sing the line at the same time. They are then getting back in sync with each other, which hints to a reconciliation. At least, that's how I choose to view the song. The physical contact between the two at the end is more or less a confirmation of the reconciliation.
I watched the live Neil diamond concert of 1986 on VHS when I was a child. I was under 10 years old and my parents played that concert a lot and my siblings and I grew up listening to that concert so much. We all love Neil Diamond. We all even saw him live at the Houston Rodeo. Amazing!!!! My Dad is now passed so now, I can’t hear this without crying. Love this so much.
Truly a class act, I was impressed by the way Neil was able to re-establish eye contact with Barbara. It is very subtle, so you must watch closely to catch this; young performers could learn a lot here.
One of the best duets I have ever heard!
I was 12 when this came out. I was already Ms. Barbara's #1 fan❤. But after this came out on tv Neil Diamond became my first crush❤🎵🥰☺️💐😘
He is my crush and I am in my 60s!!
@@lindac7324 almost 60 myself✌️😊
This duet is just heartbreaking and phenomenal!! Barbra is my Queen!!!! Her voice is absolute perfection and Neil’s voice fits hers so flawlessly. Real voices - NO AUTOTUNE!! 🎤🥹❤️❤️❤️❤️🔥🔥🔥🔥👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Every woman wants a Neil Diamond, the look of love in his eyes makes me remember being in love.
WOW! They just don't make them like this anymore! I remember how big this was when it was first on tv.
Me too! If I remember right, it was a surprise….and clearly a big deal since Streisand rarely performed, much less a duet.
Yes, I saw it live on TV at the time, also. It was kept a secret. No one believed the two of them were going to perform this duet live.
Two majestic singers singing a most beautiful song.
AHH THE 80S...WHEN TALENT WAS WHAT REALLY MATTERED...I WANT TO GO BACK.
Truly beautiful, by two of the most gifted singers in world history. But Streisand voice truly magical.
An irrisistable force meets an immovable object, result...Simply stunning. That has Never been bettered.
It was a DJ who noticed they had separately recorded the song but in the same key, so he cut it together himself. It was such a hit, Neil and Babs decided to make an official recording.
That chemistry between those two is incredible
This video makes me swoon ❤
I agree it oozes out does it not one wonders if anything happened😮
This black Detroit 60's chick remembers seeing this on television it was epic, beautiful and I love both artists. This is true talent!
This was a performance of two talents beyond the scale of human experience. It transcended the song, the moment, even the artists own capabilities. Songs just are not performed this way any longer. The audience had no choice but to be mesmerized by these two artists at the top of their craft! Thank you Neil & Barbara!
Not much the performance or vocals as it is their chemistry. Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, and plenty of other artists have put on way better performances.
Do you cry at beauty?
This recording is the test.
In my opinion, one of the ten most beautiful songs of all time that really moves me every time I hear it.
Still watching this video after it's been there for 44 years! WTG NEIL AND BARBARA I STILL LOVE THIS!
I just read about this in her book and just had to see what it looked like, Awesome!
I remember watching this. I was just a kid. Kind of liking the melody. But what really stood out to was “Barbara” was dressed like my “mom”. And over the years, like many, I got it.
May each of us experience at least some moments of love and intensity that we all imagine is passing between these two amazing artists !
Can you imagine these 2 extraordinary talents both came out of the same Erasmus high school in brooklyn
How can you not love this? Simply beautiful.
I remember this when they appeared at the end. I cried then and I cried now.
Such a beautiful song. I am still to this day mesmerized by Barbra's unconventional beauty.