Neil Diamond has revealed that he’s finally accepted his Parkinson’s diagnosis.
The veteran singer made the public announcement of his retirement via a statement on his website back in January 2018.
At the time, the star promised to remain ‘active’ in the music industry - as well as he can.
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Diamond said in a statement: “It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring.
“I have been so honored to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years.
“My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows.
“I plan to remain active in writing, recording and other projects for a long time to come.”
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And now in a new interview set to air on CBS this weekend, the 'Hello Again' singer has now come to terms with his diagnosis.
"But somehow, a calm has moved in, and the hurricane of my life, and things have gotten very quiet, as quiet as this recording studio," he said.
"And, I like it. I find that I like myself better. I'm easier on people. I'm easier on myself. And the beat goes on, and it will go on long after I'm gone."
Speaking about his continued devotion to his fanbase, the singer added: "I'm still doing it. And I don't like it. But the … this is me; this is what I have to accept.
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"And I'm willing to do it. And, OK, so this is the hand that God's given me, and I have to make the best of it, and so I am. I am."
Last December, supporters got to witness the emotional moment Diamond sang ‘Sweet Caroline’, almost five years after retiring due to his health.
He belted out one of his hit songs in a Broadway performance.
The singer managed to get everyone dancing and singing away to his hit single, having performed the tune to launch his musical A Beautiful Noise.
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As you can imagine, when he sang the first line, the audience erupted into applause, cheering the singer on as he absolutely smashes it.
Posting the emotional footage on Twitter, one user wrote: “Neil Diamond singing ‘Sweet Caroline’ at the Broadway opening of his musical A Beautiful Noise this week, five years after retiring due to his Parkinson’s diagnosis. Beautiful.”
Many others felt equally moved, with one commenting: “Literally brought tears. Happy and sad.”
Anish Vij