“If You Go Away” is a French song originally written and recorded by Jacques Brel in 1959. The English lyrics were later written by Rod McKuen.
Neil Diamond recorded a cover version of the song, which he released on his 1972 album Moods.
Diamond’s cover features his signature rich, emotive vocals over a lush, orchestral pop/rock arrangement.
The lyrics express the narrator’s desperate pleas for his love not to leave him, with lines like “If you go away, on this summer day, then you might as well take the sun away.”
Diamond’s interpretation captures the bittersweet, melancholic tone of the original French song while infusing it with his own distinct style.
Critics praised Diamond’s cover as a standout track on the Moods album, highlighting his ability to breathe new life into an established standard.
Diamond’s rendition helped introduce the poignant ballad to a new generation of listeners beyond the original French version.
The song’s timeless themes of lost love and heartbreak resonated with Diamond’s fanbase, making it a concert staple over the years.
Diamond’s emotive delivery and the track’s sweeping, cinematic production contributed to its popularity and lasting impact.
“If You Go Away” showcased Diamond’s versatility as an interpreter of material beyond his own songwriting.
The cover version has appeared on numerous Neil Diamond compilation albums, underscoring its status as one of his most acclaimed cover songs.
Many fans and critics have cited Diamond’s rendition as one of the highlights of the Moods album and a prime example of his talent for poignant, introspective ballads.
