About the song
“Diamonds and Rust” is a timeless classic brought to us by the renowned folk singer Joan Baez. Released in 1975, this song stands as a poignant testament to Baez’s extraordinary talent and emotional depth. Known for her powerful voice and evocative storytelling, Baez captures the essence of personal reflection and nostalgia in this unforgettable piece.
The song is often hailed as one of Baez’s most introspective and personal works. It reflects on the passage of time and the complexity of past relationships with a blend of melancholy and gratitude. “Diamonds and Rust” delves into the bittersweet nature of remembering a former love, capturing both the precious moments and the inevitable regrets that come with looking back on a significant chapter of one’s life.
Joan Baez, whose career spans several decades, has been celebrated for her contributions to folk music and activism. Her distinctive voice and lyrical prowess have made her a beloved figure in music. In “Diamonds and Rust,” Baez’s delivery is both poignant and reflective, embodying the emotional weight of the lyrics with a sense of authenticity that resonates deeply with listeners.
The song’s title itself is a metaphor for the contrasting elements of value and impermanence in our memories and relationships. Through her thoughtful and evocative lyrics, Baez invites listeners to ponder their own experiences of love and loss, making “Diamonds and Rust” not just a song, but a profound emotional journey. This track remains a powerful example of Baez’s artistry and her ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level, offering a timeless reflection on the nature of human connections and the passage of time.
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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