What's it like being a younger ND fan in the UK?It can be difficult at times - a sense of humour is essential at university!I took quite a bit of stick initially,but one lad likes Elvis and he came off much worse!!
Most of my friends actually listen to Neil now WITHOUT complaining.The secret was to make a tape of 20 of his more upbeat songs and they got to like it.(I think it's called brainwashing!)It plays:
I'm Alive,Starflight,Coming Home,Take Care Of Me,TBYOOL,Everything's Gonna Be Fine,Primitive,Wish Everything Was Alright,HFTF,Lost In Hollywood,Stand Up For Love,Desiree,B Noise,FIBJ,Hey Louise,America,Cracklin' Rosie,Longfellow S,American Pop Song,Diamond Girl and Kentucky Woman.
Two mates have even made copies for themselves!The other one mouths the words and taps his foot when he thinks no one is looking.(I'm working on him!)It surprised me how many they had heard but didn't know they were Neil's.Another friend at home is actually using 'Sabre Dance' as an intro to his media coursework assignment!(Hope Neil doesn't want royalties!!)
I am also slowly introducing all of them to some of Neil's slower songs.I've only been listening to some of the older ones myself for a couple of years and it's wonderful how they grow on you.My favourite of these is 'IYKWIM'.I thought Neil sang this superbly in concert.
And to think that at one time ,I used to walk out of the room when my mother played 'Cherry Cherry' and 'Sweet Caroline'!!!
I'm back at uni soon , but will keep in touch with the Board.I am a - medical student , but am thinking of giving it up to be a songwriter!!!(I wish.)

know exactly what you're sayin, send me your email, would love to msn

Sounds as if you're doing a great job, both with the studies and your mates! Which uni are you at?

but soon to undertake a 9 month hospital placement, yet to be allocated where.I've tried for the USA - in the hope of catching a Neil concert!!!!(some chance!)

Brimlands House in Devon? If so, Rob, please email me!

I live in Nottingham.

I am not a young 22 - add 10 years on - (nearly 11 actually!!!) and my friends laugh at the fact I am a Neil Diamond fan - but when i came back from his UK concerts and told them about the performance, they could only agree that he gives a 110% effort concert - they went to see Westlife (who are they?) and there were no less than 6 costume changes during the show, plus there had been a warm up, so they were only on stage for about an hour in total - I wouldn't pay good money for that.....

I have even persuaded just one of them to come and see Neil should he play in the UK again...