Why “Sweet Caroline” Became the Anthem of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Amidst the grandeur of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in June 2022, one of the most surprising and talked-about moments was the choice of “Sweet Caroline” as the song that captured the nation’s spirit. The selection puzzled some, as the anthem was written by American singer-songwriter Neil Diamond and performed during the Buckingham Palace celebrations by Sir Rod Stewart, who already has countless hits of his own. Yet its energy, its chorus, and its infectious charm turned it into the event’s unofficial anthem.

Rod Stewart’s performance outside Buckingham Palace on June 4, 2022, became a highlight of the Jubilee concert. Despite the rich catalog of songs he could have chosen from his own career, Stewart was asked by the BBC to lend his voice to Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline.” His rendition, filled with enthusiasm and joy, quickly spread through the massive crowd, showing how a single song can bring together people of all ages in celebration.

The reason for choosing “Sweet Caroline” was far more straightforward than many assumed. Ahead of the Jubilee weekend, BBC Radio 2 ran a poll asking listeners which track should be chosen as the celebratory anthem. To no one’s surprise, “Sweet Caroline” triumphed as the people’s choice. As part of the festivities, royal supporters across the UK were encouraged to sing it together at thousands of street parties on June 5, making the anthem an inclusive celebration rather than just a stage performance.

Neil Diamond himself was not present at the event, and many wondered why he had not been invited to take part. The explanation was his long battle with Parkinson’s Disease, a condition that has limited his ability to appear in public or perform full sets. While fans missed his presence, they understood the circumstances, and in a way, the performance by Stewart allowed the anthem to live on in a fresh voice for a special occasion.

Even though he could not attend the Jubilee, Neil Diamond has remained a presence in the music world. In a rare and moving public moment, he appeared at the Broadway opening of the musical “A Beautiful Noise,” which is based on his life and catalog of songs. There, he surprised fans by singing “Sweet Caroline” himself, bringing the audience to its feet and reminding the world of the power of his songwriting and the resilience of his spirit despite the illness he has faced.

Diamond’s career is nothing short of remarkable. Born in Brooklyn, he rose from modest beginnings to become one of the most successful performers and songwriters in history. His ability to capture human emotion in simple, timeless melodies earned him fans across generations. Hits he wrote for other artists, such as “I’m a Believer” made famous by The Monkees and “Red, Red Wine” later immortalized by UB40, ensured his influence stretched far beyond his own recordings.

Beyond his contributions as a songwriter, Diamond’s own discography includes countless classics that shaped the soundscape of the 1970s and beyond. Tracks like “Cracklin’ Rosie,” “Song Sung Blue,” and “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” became cultural touchstones, and his albums consistently topped charts across the globe. Selling more than 130 million records worldwide, he established himself as one of the best-selling musicians of all time, leaving behind an unmatched legacy of heartfelt music.

The impact of his work is also evident in the numerous artists who have covered his songs, keeping his influence alive across multiple genres and generations. Even songs that were not global chart-toppers, such as “Beautiful Noise,” remain staples in his repertoire, cherished by long-time fans for their lyrical richness and melodic beauty. Rod Stewart’s Jubilee performance, therefore, was not just a patriotic moment but also a continuation of Diamond’s influence in new and unexpected spaces.

Despite stepping back from touring, Diamond’s achievements continue to receive recognition. In 2019, his beloved anthem “Sweet Caroline” was added to the Library of Congress for its cultural, historical, and artistic importance, cementing its place in American musical heritage. For fans, this acknowledgment was a reminder that even though he no longer tours, his music continues to inspire and connect people worldwide. That is why, when it was sung across Britain during the Jubilee, it felt less like borrowing an American hit and more like honoring a universal classic.

Even as his health prevents him from performing in the way he once did, Neil Diamond’s songs continue to resonate with millions. The Platinum Jubilee proved that his music can unite people on a global stage, far beyond the borders of his home country. For Diamond, that night in 2022 was a reminder that his work will forever carry forward, and for the British public, it was a chance to embrace an anthem that has long transcended geography and nationality. In the end, “Sweet Caroline” became not only the soundtrack of the Jubilee but also another milestone in the story of a songwriter whose music refuses to fade.