About the song
“Diamonds and Rust,” performed by the iconic Joan Baez, is a deeply personal and evocative song that has resonated with listeners since its release in 1975. This song, written by Baez herself, features on her album of the same name, “Diamonds & Rust.” The album is one of her most acclaimed works, showcasing her lyrical prowess and emotional depth.
Joan Baez, known for her crystalline voice and poignant folk songs, wrote “Diamonds and Rust” about her relationship with Bob Dylan. The lyrics poignantly recount a phone call from an old lover and delve into memories of their past relationship. The song’s title metaphorically juxtaposes the enduring value of diamonds with the inevitable decay of rust, symbolizing the complex nature of love and memory.
Upon its release, “Diamonds and Rust” was met with critical acclaim and commercial success. The song became one of Baez’s signature tracks, charting on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching the Top 40. It also received significant airplay and became a staple in her live performances, beloved by fans for its emotional honesty and lyrical brilliance.
The song’s arrangement is both simple and powerful, featuring Baez’s voice accompanied by acoustic guitar, with subtle orchestration that enhances its melancholic beauty. “Diamonds and Rust” has been covered by various artists over the years, including Judas Priest, whose heavy metal version brought a different dimension to the song, illustrating its versatility and enduring appeal.
For many listeners, especially those who experienced the tumultuous 1960s and 70s, “Diamonds and Rust” evokes a sense of nostalgia and reflection. It is a poignant reminder of the complexities of love and the passage of time, making it a timeless classic that continues to touch hearts across generations. Joan Baez’s heartfelt performance and the song’s lyrical depth ensure that “Diamonds and Rust” remains a treasured piece of music history.
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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