I'm about to reveal myself as a sentimental sap with a boomer's appreciation of music here, but goodness, I really love Neil Diamond.

Neil retired from performing five years ago due to being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, but just because he can no longer tour doesn't mean he can't belt one out.

I was genuinely shocked to hear Diamond sound almost as good as ever as he sang the classic beloved by white people everywhere – "Sweet Caroline" – at the premiere of a Broadway musical about Neil Diamond.

I mean, I got chills. Half a decade since his voice has been heard in public and he shows everyone he's still got it.

Man, I know Neil Diamond has lovers and haters, and as Bill Murray let us know in the funniest movie of all time ("What About Bob") that the Neil Diamond question is the great dividing line.

If you don't like Neil, please, listen to the Tap Root Manuscript album, it'll change your view of him.