About the Song
Neil Diamond’s Hello Again, released in 1980, stands as a timeless ballad that transcends the boundaries of genre and generation. This tender and evocative song captures the bittersweet emotions of a long-awaited reunion, a gentle melody woven with threads of nostalgia and rekindled affection.
Composed by Diamond alongside Alan Lindgren, Hello Again marked a shift towards a more mature sound for the singer-songwriter. The song opens with a soft piano introduction, setting the stage for a heartfelt conversation. Diamond’s voice, smooth and emotive, carries the weight of time and unspoken memories.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a reunion, filled with a mix of nervous anticipation and cherished familiarity. Phrases like “It’s been a while” and “Seems like yesterday” capture the bittersweet passage of time and the longing for a connection once thought lost.
The chorus of Hello Again is the heart of the song. Diamond’s repeated refrain, “Hello again, hello / You look the same, you know,” is both a comforting greeting and a subtle acknowledgment of the passage of time. The simple melody and heartfelt delivery evoke a sense of emotional vulnerability, a longing for a connection that endures despite the separation.
Hello Again isn’t just about romantic love; it speaks to the universal human experience of reconnecting with someone special after a period of absence. It could be a long-lost friend, a distant relative, or a former lover. The song reminds us of the enduring power of human connection, the way shared memories can bridge the gap of time, and the joy of rekindling a bond once thought lost.
Hello Again gained further recognition upon its inclusion in the 1980 film, “The Jazz Singer.” The song’s themes of reunion and reconnection perfectly complemented the film’s narrative, solidifying its place as a beloved classic.
Even today, Hello Again continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Its poignant lyrics, timeless melody, and heartfelt delivery offer a comforting embrace for those navigating the complexities of human connection. It’s a song that reminds us of the enduring power of love, friendship, and the joy of rediscovering a familiar face in a world that seems constantly in motion.
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Lyrics: “Hello Again”
Hello again, hello
Just called to say hello
I couldn’t sleep at all tonight
And I know it’s late
But I couldn’t waitHello, my friend, hello
Just called to let you know
I think about you ev’ry night
When I’m here alone
And you’re there at home, helloMaybe it’s been crazy
And maybe I’m to blame
But I put my heart above my head
We’ve been through it all
And you loved me just the same
And when you’re not there
I just need to hearHello, my friend, hello
It’s good to need you so
It’s good to love you like I do
And to feel this way
When I hear you say, helloHello, my friend, hello
Just called to let you know
I think about you ev’ry night
And I know it’s late
But I couldn’t wait
Hello