About the song
Joan Baez’s live performance of “Diamonds and Rust” in 1975 is a mesmerizing showcase of her unique voice and emotional depth. This iconic song, released as part of her self-titled album “Joan Baez,” has become one of her most celebrated works, resonating deeply with audiences through its poignant lyrics and reflective tone.
Written by Baez herself, “Diamonds and Rust” is a powerful narrative that intertwines personal history with poetic imagery. The song reflects on a past relationship, using the metaphor of diamonds and rust to explore themes of love, memory, and change. Baez’s ability to convey complex emotions through her music is particularly evident in this performance, capturing both the nostalgia and the bittersweet nature of the song’s content.
The 1975 live version of “Diamonds and Rust” stands out not only for its emotional intensity but also for the impeccable delivery by Baez. Her voice, rich with experience and sincerity, adds a layer of authenticity to the performance that resonates with listeners. The live setting allows for a raw, unfiltered connection between the artist and the audience, enhancing the impact of the song’s narrative.
During this performance, Baez’s stage presence and vocal prowess are on full display. She manages to strike a delicate balance between vulnerability and strength, making each note and lyric resonate with profound significance. The live rendition brings an added dimension to the song, emphasizing the immediacy of its themes and the depth of Baez’s personal reflection.
In essence, Joan Baez’s 1975 live performance of “Diamonds and Rust” is a testament to her artistry and her ability to transform personal experiences into universal expressions of emotion. It remains a highlight in her extensive career, showcasing her remarkable talent and the timeless nature of her music.
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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