About the Song

“Beautiful Noise” by Neil Diamond is an energetic celebration of city life and the vibrancy of urban sounds. Released in 1976 as the title track of his album Beautiful Noise, the song was produced by Robbie Robertson of The Band, adding a distinctive richness to its sound. Diamond wrote the song as a reflection of the bustling energy of New York City, drawing inspiration from the sounds of people, traffic, and everyday urban life. The rhythmic beat and catchy melody capture the dynamic harmony of the city, finding beauty in its chaotic yet organized noise.

Diamond explained to Q Magazine in July 2008 that the song was also part of his effort to convince Robertson to produce the album. Recalling the moment of inspiration, he described watching a Puerto Rican parade passing under his hotel window on Fifth Avenue in New York, accompanied by lively music full of joy and rhythm. His daughter Marjorie, witnessing the scene, remarked, “What a beautiful noise, Daddy,” which sparked the title and lyrics of the song. When Diamond later played the song for Robertson, he was immediately interested, agreeing to produce the album that carried the same name.

“Beautiful Noise” captures the spirit of the city in a unique way, celebrating the pulse of urban life in a joyful and uplifting tribute. It has since become one of Diamond’s signature songs, resonating with listeners who appreciate its homage to the beauty of life’s everyday sounds.

Lyrics

What a beautiful noise
Comin’ up from the street
Got a beautiful sound
It’s got a beautiful beat
It’s a beautiful noise
Goin’ on ev’rywhere
Like the clickety-clack
Of a train on a track
It’s got rhythm to spare
It’s a beautiful noise
And it’s a sound that I love
And it fits me as well
As a hand in a glove
Yes it does, yes it does
What a beautiful noise
Comin’ up from the park
It’s the song of the kids
And it pl ays until dark
It’s the song of the cars
On their furious flights
But there’s even romance
In the way that they dance
To the beat of the lights
It’s a beautiful noise
And it’s a sound that I love
And it makes me feel good
Like a hand in a glove
Yes it does, yes it does
What a beautiful noise
It’s a beautiful noise
Made of joy and of strife
Like a symphony played
By the passing parade
It’s the music of life
It’s a beautiful noise
And it’s a sound that I love
And it makes me feel good
Just like a hand in a glove
Yes it does, yes it does
What a beautiful noise
Comin’ into my room
And it’s beggin’ for me
Just to give it a tune

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