Neil Sedaka, Barry Manilow Show Their Support To Neil Diamond After Parkinson's Diagnosis

Fellow musicians Barry Manilow and Neil Sedaka shared their messages of well wishes for Neil Diamond, born Neil Leslie Diamond, following the singer's devastating news that he has Parkinson's disease.

Celebrity tributes started pouring in shortly after the public learned about Diamond's health condition through a press release that announced the cancellation of his Australia and New Zealand tour dates in March. Among those who shared their support for the "Sweet Caroline" singer are friends from the '60s Neil Sedaka and Barry Manilow.

"For all the joy @NeilDiamond has brought to the world, I know it will come back to him tenfold. Sending all my love to him and his family," Sedaka wrote in a touching tribute to Diamond on Twitter.

Sedaka, whom Diamond met during their days at Brill Building in New York, recalled his shock when he learned about his friend's debilitating disease. The 78-year-old Brooklyn native recalled his memories of Diamond and praised the singer for being an "all-around great guy."

"We lived across the street from each other in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn. He is the most talented of the singer/songwriters/performers that I watched hone their craft at the Brill Building. His recordings and his writings are just superb," Sedaka said in an interview with People.

Manilow, another Brooklyn native, also took to his Twitter page to share his sadness over news of Diamond's illness. The "Mandy" singer expressed his support and encouraged Diamond to remain strong.

"#Neil Diamond So, so sorry to hear about the great Neil Diamond's illness. I'm rooting for you Neil! Fight on from another Brooklyn boy!" Manilow tweeted.

Banilow and Sedaka are just among the many musicians and celebrities who expressed their support and messages of love for the contemporary artist. Micky Dolenz of the Monkees expressed his dismay that Diamond had to retire from touring because of his Parkinson's disease. He thanked the songwriter for bringing joy to his fans and wished him all the best.

Brian Wilson, from the Beach Boys, Josh Groban, Mia Farrow, and several other fans jumped in on social media to share their well wishes for the singer.

In a statement published on his website on Monday, Jan. 22, Diamond admitted that he took his retirement with "reluctance and disappointment." He also expressed his sincere apology to everyone who purchased tickets for his New Zealand and Australia shows. Diamond assured that despite having Parkinson's disease, he will remain devoted to writing, producing, and recording music.

Tags

Barry Manilow, Neil Diamond, Parkinson's Disease