She is the seductive silky voice in the famous group Sugarland, while he is the gruff baritone who has 38 top 10 songs and has sold over 100 million albums worldwide. And she’s paying homage to him tonight.
Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland has been invited to perform at the Kennedy Center Honors in honor of Neil Diamond. “Hello Again,” one of Diamond’s most poignant songs, was delivered by Nettles.
The Kennedy Center Honors is an event that happens every year to recognize American performers for their contributions to American culture over the course of their careers.
It was a star-studded night that culminated when Jennifer Nettles took the stage.
Growing up in small-town Douglas, Georgia, Jennifer Nettles started singing at school assemblies and at her Baptist church. When she formed Sugarland with Kristen Hall and Kristina Bush, she became known all over the world.
Sugarland was formed in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2002. Since then, they have put out three albums, and fifteen of the songs from those albums have made it onto the Billboard Hot Country Songs list.
Neil Diamond is a global icon and one of the best-selling artists of all time. He has eleven Hot 100 and Adult Contemporary number one hits to his credit.
Diamond’s first movie was “The Jazz Singer,” which came out in 1980 and was based on Samson Raphaelson’s play of the same name. Several of Diamond’s songs were in the movie.
Diamond sings “Hello Again” during one heartbreaking point in the film, which was a smash, reaching number six on the Billboard Hot 100 and number three on the Adult Contemporary charts. Jennifer Nettles walked out in front of the crowd at the Kennedy Center Honors and gave an impassioned performance of the song.
You can tell how much it impacts Nettles as she revs her amazing voice in this song. She pours so much heart into the song and pays Diamond the honor of a lifetime.
Diamond is clearly moved by Nettles’ performance in the crowd. It’s remarkable to see how much it matters to him and how much her performance affects him. His eyes sparkle as he fights back tears.
Many individuals in the crowd are moved by Nettles’ moving tribute.
“Good day, dear buddy.” Hello. I just phoned to inform you. Every night, I think of you. I know it’s late, but I couldn’t wait any longer. Hello.”
The lyrics are very intimate and heartfelt. Many people have been compelled to contact a loved one while they are thinking about them. The message of the song is global.
Many YouTubers are ecstatic with this performance.
“I get shivers listening to this rendition… her voice is beautiful.”
“What a fantastic performance of this lovely song!” She just stands there and conveys honest emotion.”
“Neil’s expression towards the conclusion of the song shows his admiration.”
It’s a thrill to witness this kind of devotion. If you’re a Neil Diamond fan, then witnessing his reaction to Nettles’ performance is just what you’re hoping for.
Nettles closes the song by kissing Diamond. On a night when Diamond received the Kennedy Center Honor, this was one of the greatest tributes. He’ll never forget that night.
Take a look at the video below to get a peek of the night Neil Diamond will never forget. Being recognized for his contributions to American culture and having Jennifer Nettles play a lovely version of his song is simply the frosting on the cake. It’s exciting to revisit and be a part of this breathtaking occasion.
Watch her touching tribute below!