About the song
Neil Diamond’s Holly Holy is more than just a song; it’s a poignant reflection on faith, love, and the human condition. Released in 1969 as part of his album Touching You, Touching Me, the track quickly ascended the charts, becoming one of Diamond’s signature pieces. This enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s universal themes and Diamond’s masterful songwriting.
Diamond’s music has often been characterized by its accessibility and emotional depth. Holly Holy is no exception. The song’s melody, with its simple, yet evocative chord progression, is immediately captivating. It’s a melody that lingers, inviting repeated listens, each time revealing new layers of meaning. Diamond’s vocal delivery, marked by its warmth and sincerity, further enhances the song’s emotional impact. His voice, a rich baritone, carries the listener through the song’s narrative with a gentle authority.
Lyrically, Holly Holy is a tapestry woven with threads of faith, hope, and human connection. The song’s opening lines, “Oh, Lord, it’s hard to believe / What I see / People changin’ all around me / And no one seems to care,” immediately establish a sense of disillusionment and a longing for something more profound. Yet, despite this initial sense of despair, the song ultimately offers a message of hope and resilience.
The title, “Holly Holy,” is itself a curious and evocative phrase. Some have interpreted it as a reference to the holy family, while others suggest it symbolizes a sacred or idealized state of being. Regardless of its precise meaning, the phrase carries a weight and significance that resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level.
Holly Holy is a song that transcends generational boundaries. It speaks to the human experience in a way that is both timeless and relevant. The song’s exploration of faith, love, and the search for meaning has resonated with audiences for decades, and it continues to do so today. It is a testament to Diamond’s enduring talent as a songwriter and his ability to craft music that touches the soul.
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Lyrics
“Holly Holy”
Where I am, what I am
What I believe in
Holly holy
Holly holy dream
Wanting only you
And she come
And I run just like the wind will
Holly holy
Sing a song
Sing a song of songs
Sing it out, Sing it strong
Yeah! Yeah!
Call the sun in the dead of the night
And the sun gonna rise in the sky
Touch a man who can’t walk upright
And that lame man, he gonna fly
And I fly, yeah, And I fly
Holly holy love
Take the lonely child
And the seed
Let it be full with tomorrow
Holly holy
Sing a song
Sing a song of songs
Sing it out, sing it strong
Yeah! Yeah!
Call the sun in the dead of the night
And the sun gonna rise in the sky
Touch a man who can’t walk upright
And that lame man, he gonna fly
And I fly, yeah
God (And) I fly
Holly holy dream
Dream ’bout only you
Holly holy sun
Holly holy rain
Holly holy love