Download Instrumental    This was Neil Diamond’s first American # 1 hit – recorded in 1970.  It’s a dynamic and memorable melody coupled with terrific instrumental backing by L.A studio musicians called The Wrecking Crew  (I’ve written about them before).  The lyrics to “Cracklin’ Rosie” suggest his devotion to a certain “woman of the night”.  Or does it?

Diamond swears it’s not about a woman at all.  “Cracklin’ Rose” was a  wine favored by lumber jacks in the Northwest.  It seems many a lonely night was spent “lumber-jacking” without a woman in sight.  So they turned to their favorite beverage to help ease their..uh… tension.  Now the lyrics take on a whole new meaning.  “Cracklin’ Rose, you’re a store bought woman”  (I’m thinking local liquor store).  “You make me sing like a guitar humming”  (ever sing at the top of your lungs when you’ve had a few drinks?)

Then there’s “Cracklin’ Rose make me smile” (ever had a stupid grin on your face after 3 scotches?).  “If it lasts for an hour, that’s all right – we got all night”  (now I’m thinking we need TWO bottles).  It’s about a bottle of wine, folks!  Disappointed?  Me, too… kinda.  Still a good song with a great beat for your dancing crowd.

You know, it strikes me that this could also be about one of those sexy blow-up dolls.  Just sayin’…