Kate Hudson sings her heart out in shaky 'Song Sung Blue' – Review
- - Kate Hudson sings her heart out in shaky 'Song Sung Blue' – Review
Brian Truitt December 24, 2025 at 2:01 AM
0
Can a major Hollywood star have another breakthrough role later in life? Because that’s what it feels like watching Kate Hudson as a talented Midwestern pop-rock singer in “Song Sung Blue.”
Inspired by a popular Neil Diamond tribute act, director Craig Brewer’s sentimental drama (★★½ out of four; rated PG-13; in theaters Dec. 25) isn’t your average music biopic − even though it in many ways plays like others we've seen, for better or for worse. In the case of "Song Sung Blue," the performances overshadow a tonally imbalanced, straightforward life story. Fortunately, Hudson and Hugh Jackman, in total showman mode, make up for the narrative shortcomings as the '90s dynamite duo Lightning & Thunder.
Mike Sardina (Jackman), an alcoholic Vietnam vet 20 years sober, is a Milwaukee singer who likens his Lightning persona to a rock god “like Chuck Berry, Barry Manilow and the Beatles, all rolled into one.” But he hasn’t found the right musical fit and is trying to get out of singing Don Ho songs at the state fair when he meets Claire Stengl (Hudson).
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Mike (Hugh Jackman) and Claire (Kate Hudson) sing a Neil Diamond tune alongside a full choir in the musical drama
She’s a part-time hairdresser with dreams of performing as well – she can sing the heck out of a Patsy Cline tune, by the way – and she immediately hits it off with fellow divorcé Mike. He hatches the idea to be a Neil Diamond “interpreter” rather than an impersonator (“I’ve gotta be Neil but I’ve gotta be me,” Mike figures) and she signs on as his partner, in music and romance.
With the help of a couple of managers (Fisher Stevens and Jim Belushi) and Mike’s old guitarist friend (Michael Imperioli), Lightning & Thunder becomes a local hit that keeps getting bigger (almost too quickly for believability). By the time they open for Pearl Jam – at Eddie Vedder’s request – the pair is a full-fledged phenomenon.
Meanwhile, Mike and Claire get married and combine their families. However, every time they begin to have professional success, life smacks them down – for example, Claire getting run over by a car while gardening in their front yard – and they have to find a way to come back stronger together.
But the whiplash is real as the movie bounces from feel-good numbers in the Neil Diamond songbook to just utter heartbreaking tragedy. The first half of “Song Sung Blue” sparkles so much that, when it takes a serious turn and then tries to come back from the brink, it rings bittersweet rather than rousing. While it’s ultimately an inspirational tale of two passionate musicians, the film doesn't sugarcoat anything.
Brewer, best known for “Hustle & Flow,” crafts varying performances − from intimate duets in the living room to huge stage numbers with a band and choir – that make the most of his two leads’ musical skills. Jackman is a Broadway star who’s tailor-made for roles like this, where his rock-star flair and charm seem effortless as he croons “Soolaimon” while wind blows through his well-coiffed hair and silky shirt.
"Song Sung Blue," starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Here, Diamond is seen in London for his first British concert during a tour of Europe in 1971.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>Singer and songwriter Neil Diamond's music career spans five decades, marked by beloved hits and global acclaim. A look back at his years in music ahead of the Diamond-inspired movie "Song Sung Blue," starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Here, Diamond is seen in London for his first British concert during a tour of Europe in 1971.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KqgZiNtKpo421Yd3ewuOTA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzI4/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d056b5f51e480729f509d36642c63c59 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Singer and songwriter Neil Diamond's music career spans five decades, marked by beloved hits and global acclaim. A look back at his years in music ahead of the Diamond-inspired movie "Song Sung Blue," starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Here, Diamond is seen in London for his first British concert during a tour of Europe in 1971.
">Singer and songwriter Neil Diamond's music career spans five decades, marked by beloved hits and global acclaim. A look back at his years in music ahead of the Diamond-inspired movie "Song Sung Blue," starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Here, Diamond is seen in London for his first British concert during a tour of Europe in 1971.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KqgZiNtKpo421Yd3ewuOTA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzI4/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d056b5f51e480729f509d36642c63c59 class=caas-img>The musician concentrates during a chess game in 1972.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0D8RsTUY1RmN5b3ss7746g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MzQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/811c7b4fd40206a408350e1e37f012df class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
The musician concentrates during a chess game in 1972.
">The musician concentrates during a chess game in 1972.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0D8RsTUY1RmN5b3ss7746g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MzQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/811c7b4fd40206a408350e1e37f012df class=caas-img>Neil Diamond relaxes with his guitar in 1979, shortly before making his film debut in a remake of "The Jazz Singer."
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yoOEzOQdoqwWXQZwtKOgbg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05ODg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e5a91733b8608d2c72e9de85effeb06c class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond relaxes with his guitar in 1979, shortly before making his film debut in a remake of "The Jazz Singer."
">Neil Diamond relaxes with his guitar in 1979, shortly before making his film debut in a remake of "The Jazz Singer."
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yoOEzOQdoqwWXQZwtKOgbg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05ODg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e5a91733b8608d2c72e9de85effeb06c class=caas-img>Neil Diamond, left, and Waylon Jennings, second from right, get makeup while shooting a video in Nashville on Jan. 16, 1996, for their duet "One Good Love." The tune appears on Diamond's "Tennessee Moon" album.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/feJ5xWuUltXrCVvbuTempw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04NjQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b8e24d737f809b0aff1492134bb64acc class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond, left, and Waylon Jennings, second from right, get makeup while shooting a video in Nashville on Jan. 16, 1996, for their duet "One Good Love." The tune appears on Diamond's "Tennessee Moon" album.
">Neil Diamond, left, and Waylon Jennings, second from right, get makeup while shooting a video in Nashville on Jan. 16, 1996, for their duet "One Good Love." The tune appears on Diamond's "Tennessee Moon" album.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/feJ5xWuUltXrCVvbuTempw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04NjQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b8e24d737f809b0aff1492134bb64acc class=caas-img>Amanda Peet and performer Neil Diamond arrive at the premiere of "Saving Silverman" on Feb. 7, 2001, in Westwood, California. Diamond makes a cameo in the movie.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1FJUuIrKh9MLfMKBt7wlfQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjIw/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cbc9410e78a56f0b4cda3ddccebcd377 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Amanda Peet and performer Neil Diamond arrive at the premiere of "Saving Silverman" on Feb. 7, 2001, in Westwood, California. Diamond makes a cameo in the movie.
">Amanda Peet and performer Neil Diamond arrive at the premiere of "Saving Silverman" on Feb. 7, 2001, in Westwood, California. Diamond makes a cameo in the movie.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1FJUuIrKh9MLfMKBt7wlfQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjIw/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cbc9410e78a56f0b4cda3ddccebcd377 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs on the "Today" show on May 6, 2005, in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4azKEeQMLskwm2LfLlOTEA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cec39ca1d54e7ce99baf30b199f4a794 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs on the "Today" show on May 6, 2005, in New York City.
">Neil Diamond performs on the "Today" show on May 6, 2005, in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4azKEeQMLskwm2LfLlOTEA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cec39ca1d54e7ce99baf30b199f4a794 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond sings the national anthem prior to Super Bowl XXI between the New York Giants and the Denver Broncos at the Rose Bowl on Jan. 25, 1987, in Pasadena, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0pCDNgNYseACVy0EIt0spg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODU1/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3b178da16120fe2e5dd86ac666a9c9fc class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond sings the national anthem prior to Super Bowl XXI between the New York Giants and the Denver Broncos at the Rose Bowl on Jan. 25, 1987, in Pasadena, California.
">Neil Diamond sings the national anthem prior to Super Bowl XXI between the New York Giants and the Denver Broncos at the Rose Bowl on Jan. 25, 1987, in Pasadena, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0pCDNgNYseACVy0EIt0spg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODU1/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3b178da16120fe2e5dd86ac666a9c9fc class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs on Day 3 of Glastonbury Festival in Somerset, England, on June 29, 2008.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/VmtIaBm_nqP7k1samoDtfg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODI2/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/c3b558ee33d2015e4967b157784f6ec8 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs on Day 3 of Glastonbury Festival in Somerset, England, on June 29, 2008.
">Neil Diamond performs on Day 3 of Glastonbury Festival in Somerset, England, on June 29, 2008.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/VmtIaBm_nqP7k1samoDtfg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODI2/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/c3b558ee33d2015e4967b157784f6ec8 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond (left) and Jeremy Piven attend Game 5 of the Western Conference Semifinals during the NBA Playoffs at Staples Center on May 12, 2009, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xD5J0xcE_KRDLE7mSgdnkg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMTYx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/28d56e2f060b5e4bb4a6bd5d15018497 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond (left) and Jeremy Piven attend Game 5 of the Western Conference Semifinals during the NBA Playoffs at Staples Center on May 12, 2009, in Los Angeles.
">Neil Diamond (left) and Jeremy Piven attend Game 5 of the Western Conference Semifinals during the NBA Playoffs at Staples Center on May 12, 2009, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xD5J0xcE_KRDLE7mSgdnkg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMTYx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/28d56e2f060b5e4bb4a6bd5d15018497 class=caas-img>Faith Hill and honoree Neil Diamond perform at the MusiCares Person of the Year tribute at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Feb. 6, 2009.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tarc4u6buqG6LBaD1SxsaQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MzE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/36b53899a6ddb15db6e19fe2584b6388 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Faith Hill and honoree Neil Diamond perform at the MusiCares Person of the Year tribute at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Feb. 6, 2009.
">Faith Hill and honoree Neil Diamond perform at the MusiCares Person of the Year tribute at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Feb. 6, 2009.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tarc4u6buqG6LBaD1SxsaQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MzE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/36b53899a6ddb15db6e19fe2584b6388 class=caas-img>
Neil Diamond on the Mount Rushmore float as it makes its way down Seventh Avenue through Times Square during the 85th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York Nov. 24, 2011.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PsTuxwDNKIs8dEZdUxDKcw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05Mzc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b2789316f5cc9dfbfd873d243ab3a0f5 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond on the Mount Rushmore float as it makes its way down Seventh Avenue through Times Square during the 85th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York Nov. 24, 2011.
">Neil Diamond on the Mount Rushmore float as it makes its way down Seventh Avenue through Times Square during the 85th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York Nov. 24, 2011.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PsTuxwDNKIs8dEZdUxDKcw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05Mzc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b2789316f5cc9dfbfd873d243ab3a0f5 class=caas-img>The five recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors pose with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton (left) and former President Bill Clinton (right) following a dinner at the State Department on Dec. 3, 2011, in Washington. Front: Sonny Rollins and Barbara Cook. Back: Yo-Yo Ma, Meryl Streep and Neil Diamond.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xKiqb7Wrl10T.jGlYhv15A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05OTQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/12685667fcf8ea8fdf7f5e4b01679f1c class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
The five recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors pose with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton (left) and former President Bill Clinton (right) following a dinner at the State Department on Dec. 3, 2011, in Washington. Front: Sonny Rollins and Barbara Cook. Back: Yo-Yo Ma, Meryl Streep and Neil Diamond.
">The five recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors pose with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton (left) and former President Bill Clinton (right) following a dinner at the State Department on Dec. 3, 2011, in Washington. Front: Sonny Rollins and Barbara Cook. Back: Yo-Yo Ma, Meryl Streep and Neil Diamond.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xKiqb7Wrl10T.jGlYhv15A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05OTQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/12685667fcf8ea8fdf7f5e4b01679f1c class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs during the Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 22, 2011, in Las Vegas.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/CQiNJss96Gwo6PRgBBSgNw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d9e2d648cb400d83650a2f57c695db36 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs during the Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 22, 2011, in Las Vegas.
">Neil Diamond performs during the Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 22, 2011, in Las Vegas.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/CQiNJss96Gwo6PRgBBSgNw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d9e2d648cb400d83650a2f57c695db36 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs during the 26th anniversary Carousel of Hope Ball at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Oct. 20, 2012, in California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/lZVmZETr24ex3awlsAnNZw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/2318295064e077ecae7b9a26fe833490 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs during the 26th anniversary Carousel of Hope Ball at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Oct. 20, 2012, in California.
">Neil Diamond performs during the 26th anniversary Carousel of Hope Ball at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Oct. 20, 2012, in California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/lZVmZETr24ex3awlsAnNZw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/2318295064e077ecae7b9a26fe833490 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond (left) and George Clooney perform during the Carousel of Hope Ball.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/etUK6Exr7IIswZeXIZc95w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMTY5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7a5a5e1da11659bc4aa8bfc5c499e676 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond (left) and George Clooney perform during the Carousel of Hope Ball.
">Neil Diamond (left) and George Clooney perform during the Carousel of Hope Ball.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/etUK6Exr7IIswZeXIZc95w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMTY5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7a5a5e1da11659bc4aa8bfc5c499e676 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond attends a ceremony honoring him with the 2,475th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Aug. 10, 2012.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/dEVyp3Epijoy1jgOcxa8Rg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODY5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3f0a5017fa7dc7005b05c7965cd8a177 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond attends a ceremony honoring him with the 2,475th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Aug. 10, 2012.
">Neil Diamond attends a ceremony honoring him with the 2,475th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Aug. 10, 2012.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/dEVyp3Epijoy1jgOcxa8Rg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODY5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3f0a5017fa7dc7005b05c7965cd8a177 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond sings "Sweet Caroline" during a game between the Kansas City Royals and Boston Red Sox in the 8th inning at Fenway Park on April 20, 2013, in Boston.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PC7_87ngwLaVUPCCvSU9ag--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD03MTM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cc2ec3145da11f6b87f9d3cca70cc5c4 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond sings "Sweet Caroline" during a game between the Kansas City Royals and Boston Red Sox in the 8th inning at Fenway Park on April 20, 2013, in Boston.
">Neil Diamond sings "Sweet Caroline" during a game between the Kansas City Royals and Boston Red Sox in the 8th inning at Fenway Park on April 20, 2013, in Boston.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PC7_87ngwLaVUPCCvSU9ag--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD03MTM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cc2ec3145da11f6b87f9d3cca70cc5c4 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs during A Capitol Fourth, an Independence Day concert on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol on July 4, 2013, in Washington.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/SSeIP8R2beYrI5_JfWad_A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/deeadf09fcaee69e9c24c72eac2295d0 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs during A Capitol Fourth, an Independence Day concert on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol on July 4, 2013, in Washington.
">Neil Diamond performs during A Capitol Fourth, an Independence Day concert on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol on July 4, 2013, in Washington.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/SSeIP8R2beYrI5_JfWad_A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/deeadf09fcaee69e9c24c72eac2295d0 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs on NBC's "Today" at Rockefeller Plaza on Oct. 20, 2014, in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/SZqOSpNFMIVCPhUZu2OiEg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjI0/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ebde238e1a758d4bb08b5eaa4dde53ae class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs on NBC's "Today" at Rockefeller Plaza on Oct. 20, 2014, in New York City.
">Neil Diamond performs on NBC's "Today" at Rockefeller Plaza on Oct. 20, 2014, in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/SZqOSpNFMIVCPhUZu2OiEg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjI0/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ebde238e1a758d4bb08b5eaa4dde53ae class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs at the 84th Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting on Nov. 30, 2016, in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0IeSvOQel8cs0Bda89mzsQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MjU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/f1fcbc0ad69299e40c3e701dc109f811 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs at the 84th Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting on Nov. 30, 2016, in New York City.
">Neil Diamond performs at the 84th Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting on Nov. 30, 2016, in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0IeSvOQel8cs0Bda89mzsQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MjU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/f1fcbc0ad69299e40c3e701dc109f811 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond performs at the BB&T Center in Sunrise, Florida, on April 26, 2017.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/64exl0IMqfvpzxoS88.e7A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MDM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7c48be80ae42e88fc0b19a5aa371e2c9 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond performs at the BB&T Center in Sunrise, Florida, on April 26, 2017.
">Neil Diamond performs at the BB&T Center in Sunrise, Florida, on April 26, 2017.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/64exl0IMqfvpzxoS88.e7A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MDM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7c48be80ae42e88fc0b19a5aa371e2c9 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond signs autographs at the Songwriters Hall of Fame 49th annual induction and awards dinner at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 14, 2018, in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.tWAmA4tO8TQ4deXjqQK.Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8ec5b334b2cebde49b1d71ad77e8f5fd class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond signs autographs at the Songwriters Hall of Fame 49th annual induction and awards dinner at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 14, 2018, in New York City.
">Neil Diamond signs autographs at the Songwriters Hall of Fame 49th annual induction and awards dinner at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 14, 2018, in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.tWAmA4tO8TQ4deXjqQK.Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8ec5b334b2cebde49b1d71ad77e8f5fd class=caas-img>Neil Diamond hoists his award during the Songwriters Hall of Fame induction.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/OP74r9VBtwvuS.23nRS2wg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05NDQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d333129a4753f4694bf02d18fe8a0243 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond hoists his award during the Songwriters Hall of Fame induction.
">Neil Diamond hoists his award during the Songwriters Hall of Fame induction.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/OP74r9VBtwvuS.23nRS2wg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05NDQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d333129a4753f4694bf02d18fe8a0243 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond attends the 24th annual Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala benefit for the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health at MGM Grand Garden Arena on March 7, 2020, in Las Vegas.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Sg_arC.Od.vNUHfZt2MZqg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6c10611850d303d2487864ce624b07f1 class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond attends the 24th annual Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala benefit for the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health at MGM Grand Garden Arena on March 7, 2020, in Las Vegas.
">Neil Diamond attends the 24th annual Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala benefit for the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health at MGM Grand Garden Arena on March 7, 2020, in Las Vegas.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Sg_arC.Od.vNUHfZt2MZqg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6c10611850d303d2487864ce624b07f1 class=caas-img>Neil Diamond and wife Katie Diamond attend the 39th annual Carousel Ball at Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center on Oct. 11, 2025.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.7Q_BEMH34H4K4V8Lr0sRQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/1c70e48322b8e56b29a9576bba88b9ee class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond and wife Katie Diamond attend the 39th annual Carousel Ball at Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center on Oct. 11, 2025.
">Neil Diamond and wife Katie Diamond attend the 39th annual Carousel Ball at Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center on Oct. 11, 2025.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.7Q_BEMH34H4K4V8Lr0sRQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/1c70e48322b8e56b29a9576bba88b9ee class=caas-img>Neil Diamond, inspirational lifetime achievement award recipient, performs during the 39th annual Carousel Ball in 2025.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/AyxMwIlKX6nPVu1VEpPFew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0adb172539a81c5d3cdd9d86dd5cf71d class=caas-img data-headline="See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'" data-caption="
Neil Diamond, inspirational lifetime achievement award recipient, performs during the 39th annual Carousel Ball in 2025.
">Neil Diamond, inspirational lifetime achievement award recipient, performs during the 39th annual Carousel Ball in 2025.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/AyxMwIlKX6nPVu1VEpPFew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0adb172539a81c5d3cdd9d86dd5cf71d class=caas-img>
1 / 27See Neil Diamond and his career in music ahead of 'Song Sung Blue'
Singer and songwriter Neil Diamond's music career spans five decades, marked by beloved hits and global acclaim. A look back at his years in music ahead of the Diamond-inspired movie "Song Sung Blue," starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Here, Diamond is seen in London for his first British concert during a tour of Europe in 1971.
The bigger headline, however, is: Man, Kate Hudson can sing. She has performed in movies before (like a number in the 2009 musical “Nine”) but between this and her 2024 album “Glorious,” Hudson proves to be a true powerhouse with vocals as rich as a plate of Wisconsin cheese curds. She has strong musical chemistry with Jackman, and also makes the most of a couple of solo numbers, including an emotional version of Diamond’s “I’ve Been This Way Before.”
Kate Hudson performs Patsy Cline and Neil Diamond numbers as Claire Stengl in
This movie isn’t just for fans of “The Jewish Elvis.” Mike keeps trying to make the point that the legendary Diamond is more than just “Sweet Caroline” – no one even sings it until the 45-minute mark. The movie nicely deep dives into the songwriter's playlist, from “I Am … I Said” and “Forever in Blue Jeans” to “Cracklin’ Rosie” and “Crunchy Granola Suite.”
Even if the storytelling doesn’t totally impress in “Song Sung Blue,” the musicianship will, with Jackman and Hudson doing justice to an American icon.
When is 'Song Sung Blue' coming out?
The musical drama "Song Sung Blue," starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, is in theaters Dec. 25. It has a run time of two hours and 12 minutes and is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association "for thematic material, some strong language, some sexual material and brief drug use."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Song Sung Blue' review – Hugh Jackman, Kate Hudson make magic
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
