About the song
Let’s dive into the enchanting world of folk music with the timeless classic “Diamonds and Rust” by the illustrious Joan Baez. This soul-stirring ballad is a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the passage of time, delivered with Baez’s unmistakable grace and emotive vocal style.
Penned by Baez herself, “Diamonds and Rust” first appeared on her 1975 album of the same name. This album marked a pivotal moment in Baez’s career, showcasing her evolution as both a songwriter and interpreter of traditional folk music. With its introspective lyrics and haunting melody, “Diamonds and Rust” quickly became a standout track, resonating deeply with audiences around the world.
Upon its release, “Diamonds and Rust” garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching number 35 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its introspective lyrics and haunting melody struck a chord with listeners, cementing its status as one of Baez’s signature songs.
What sets “Diamonds and Rust” apart is its emotional depth and poetic imagery. Baez’s evocative lyrics paint a vivid portrait of a past love affair, weaving together themes of nostalgia, regret, and longing. Her crystalline vocals infuse the song with a sense of yearning and vulnerability, drawing listeners into its tender embrace.
Decades after its release, “Diamonds and Rust” remains a cherished classic in Baez’s repertoire, beloved by fans old and new. Its timeless appeal serves as a testament to Baez’s enduring influence on the folk music landscape, solidifying her status as a true icon of the genre.
So, if you’re in the mood for a journey through the bittersweet landscape of love and memory, look no further than Joan Baez’s haunting masterpiece, “Diamonds and Rust.” Allow its poetic lyrics and ethereal melodies to sweep you away on a soul-stirring musical odyssey.
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Lyrics
Well, I’ll be damned
Here comes your ghost again
But that’s not unusual
It’s just that the moon is full
And you happened to call
And here I sit
Hand on the telephone
Hearing a voice I’d known
A couple of light years ago
Heading straight for a fall
As I remember your eyes
Were bluer than robin’s eggs
My poetry was lousy you said
Where are you calling from?
A booth in the midwest
Ten years ago
I bought you some cufflinks
You brought me something
We both know what memories can bring
They bring diamonds and rust
Well, you burst on the scene
Already a legend
The unwashed phenomenon
The original vagabond
You strayed into my arms
And there you stayed
Temporarily lost at sea
The Madonna was yours for free
Yes, the girl on the half-shell
Could keep you unharmed
Now I see you standing
With brown leaves falling all around
And snow in your hair
Now you’re smiling out the window
Of that crummy hotel
Over Washington Square
Our breath comes out white clouds
Mingles and hangs in the air
Speaking strictly for me
We both could have died then and there
Now you’re telling me
You’re not nostalgic
Then give me another word for it
You who are so good with words
And at keeping things vague
‘Cause I need some of that vagueness now
It’s all come back too clearly
Yes, I loved you dearly
And if you’re offering me diamonds and rust
I’ve already paid