Introduction:
When music lovers think of Neil Diamond, the mind often drifts toward his era-defining hits—songs like “Sweet Caroline,” “Cracklin’ Rosie,” or “Song Sung Blue.” These timeless classics secured his place among the most beloved singer-songwriters of the 20th century. Yet before those familiar chart-toppers came to define his career, there existed a body of work that revealed the restless creativity and raw energy of a young artist finding his voice. Among those early gems is “I Got The Feelin’ (Oh No, No),” a song that captures both the urgency and the promise of a songwriter on the rise.
Released in 1966 during his formative years as a recording artist, “I Got The Feelin’ (Oh No, No)” stands as an excellent example of Diamond’s instinct for crafting infectious melodies and emotionally direct lyrics. This was a period when Diamond was still forging his identity, balancing the roles of hit songwriter for others and performer in his own right. He had already written chart success for groups like The Monkees, but here we see him asserting himself as more than just a behind-the-scenes talent. The track carries with it a punchy, upbeat rhythm—very much in step with the sound of mid-1960s pop—while still hinting at the storytelling depth that would later define his most enduring songs.
Listening to this song today, one can hear both the youthful drive and the seeds of maturity. The delivery is urgent, almost insistent, as if Diamond himself were eager to make sure his music could not be ignored. The chorus, punctuated with the repeated “Oh No, No,” adds a memorable hook that lingers long after the track has ended. It is the kind of song that may not have topped the charts in its day, but it demonstrates a rising artist with something unique to offer—a performer ready to transition from promising songwriter to commanding presence on stage and record.
For seasoned listeners, “I Got The Feelin’ (Oh No, No)” represents more than just an early single; it is a snapshot of Neil Diamond’s musical DNA in its earliest, rawest form. There is an optimism in its sound, a forward-looking energy that mirrors the very spirit of the 1960s music scene. While later works would bring him deeper critical acclaim and worldwide recognition, this track remains a reminder that even the legends began somewhere—with songs full of youthful fire and unshakable ambition.
To revisit Neil Diamond – “I Got The Feelin’ (Oh No, No)” is to rediscover the beginnings of a career that would soon blossom into greatness. It is not just a song; it is a window into the making of a musical legacy.