Some of the best classic songs are all about love, and when you stop to think about it, it makes complete sense. What could be more inspiring for a musician than a steamy hot romance or a painful breakup? And what could resonate closer with fans, who have felt the ups and downs of falling in love too?
But for musicians to write these classic songs they need someone as inspiration. Read on to find out who the people were behind your favorite classic songs like “Uptown Girl,” “Maybe I’m Amazed,” and “Sweet Child O’ Mine.”
Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” Wasn’t About Caroline Kennedy At All
The image of four-year-old Caroline Kennedy riding a horse on the cover of Life magazine in September 1962 was believed to be the source of inspiration for Neil Diamond’s 1969 classic, “Sweet Caroline.” It turns out, 42 years after the song’s release, Diamond revealed that the song was about his then-wife, Marsha.
He couldn’t get anything to rhyme with “Marsha,” and needed a three-syllable name to fit the melody, so Caroline it was! The song continues to rise in popularity even today, selling over two million downloads in just the United States alone. Of course, we have major sporting events to thank for that. “Sweet Caroline” has become a fixture at many events in the U.S., leading the crowd to sing along every time.
In 2009, We Finally Found Out Who Carly Simon’s “You’re So Vain” Was About
In her classic, “You’re So Vain,” Simon penned the anthem for a self-absorbed lover. In 1973, Simon told Rolling Stone that the song was not about James Taylor even though he assumed it was, because he was, well, vain? Simon also confirmed to the Washington Post that the song was not about the Mick Jagger either.
Finally, in 2009, Simon’s publicist told CNN that the song was about a person named David, which led many people to believe the song was about David Geffen. Simon dismissed that one, claiming she had never met the music industry mogul. There have also been speculations about actor David Cassidy and singer David Bowie, leading us to believe that the best song meanings are often the best-kept secrets. Simon later told People magazine was inspired by Warren Beatty.