Imagine a heartfelt celebration of music that resonates with millions, and you have the essence of this story. This Christmas, audiences across America will be treated to the touching film “Song Sung Blue,” starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Yet for two local musicians, the themes of this film echo their own life experiences in a remarkable way.
The movie is based on the inspiring journey of Mike and Claire Sardina, a couple who formed a tribute band dedicated to the legendary Neil Diamond. Their story was initially captured in a documentary that shares the same name, both directed by Craig Brewer. For Gary and Cheryl Gomez, this narrative strikes a deeply personal chord in their lives.
At 63 years old, Gary leads The Diamond Project, a vibrant 10-piece band dedicated to reviving Neil Diamond's timeless music throughout Northeast Ohio for the past 15 years. Cheryl, his wife and band manager, plays an essential role in their musical endeavors.
The couple first watched the original documentary about the Sardinas soon after it premiered in 2008, finding themselves moved by the couple’s passion and commitment, which paralleled their own journey. "It had that classic touch where you laugh and cry simultaneously," Gary shared, reflecting on the emotional highs and lows depicted in the documentary.
Cheryl chimed in, recalling the ups and downs the Sardinas faced: "We definitely laughed and cried. Their story was so compelling and emotional—how they met, the obstacles they overcame, it struck a chord with us."
Gary’s path to forming The Diamond Project began long before he ever took the stage. He spent years singing only in the shower or while driving, too shy to pursue his rock and roll aspirations openly. However, friends and family, especially Cheryl, often remarked how he resembled Diamond's voice when he sang.
One fateful day, while browsing through an office, Gary stumbled upon an ad seeking a Neil Diamond tribute singer. Feeling a surge of inspiration, he thought, "If I’m going to do this, now's the moment!" Although he realized he knew many of Diamond's songs, he initially struggled with the lyrics. He focused intently on perfecting "Sweet Caroline," asking Cheryl repeatedly for her feedback until he felt ready to audition.
He successfully landed a spot with a band called Diamond Mine, where he performed for three years. However, as life’s responsibilities took over and the band disbanded, Gary decided to expand his vision. He envisioned a larger ensemble and created The Diamond Project, gathering talented musicians he had met along the way. Gary aimed to recreate the grand experience of a Neil Diamond concert, complete with a rich sound that included a horn section.
The current lineup features five members with music degrees, alongside professionals from various fields, including marketing, law, and executive leadership. Their diverse skills and commitments limit them to performing 20 to 25 shows a year, ensuring they balance their musical passion with family and work responsibilities.
Over the years, Gary has earned accolades such as Best Male Vocalist at the Cleveland Music Awards in 2022, with nominations every subsequent year. The band itself has received multiple awards, including recognition as the Best of Cleveland entertainment and being named the top brunch show at the Music Box Supper Club.
Cheryl, initially familiar only with Neil Diamond's biggest hits, has since evolved into a passionate fan, now knowing every song and lyric intimately. She not only manages the band but also serves as its marketer, booking agent, and enthusiastic supporter. She attributes their growing popularity to Gary's innovative idea of expanding the band’s size, creating a dynamic, Vegas-style show that captivated audiences.
"It turned into a full-fledged show band, and many venues began promoting us as such. Our popularity skyrocketed within just a few short years!" Cheryl exclaimed, drawing parallels between their journey and that of the Sardinas.
Gary added, "It’s been a joy to witness how ingrained Neil Diamond's music is in the fabric of American culture. After shows, we often hear guests say, 'You played my wedding song! Thank you for that!' The emotional responses we receive—whether excitement or joyful tears—show how his music connects with different moments in people’s lives."
During each performance, the band takes a moment to honor veterans in the audience, a tradition that consistently evokes emotion and gratitude. "We stand and sing the national anthem together, and then Gary transitions into ‘America.’ It becomes a powerful, emotional experience," Cheryl noted, recounting one memorable show with five World War II veterans present, all encouraged to attend by fellow veterans.
As the release date for “Song Sung Blue” approaches, the Gomez couple is eager to see the film, though they’ll have to wait a day due to family obligations. "I want to see it on Christmas Day, but since we're hosting, Gary won't let us go," Cheryl said with a laugh. "We'll definitely catch it the next day! I can't wait!"
Fans of The Diamond Project can look forward to their performance at the Celestia Theater in Wadsworth on Saturday, January 24, where they will celebrate Neil Diamond’s 85th birthday. Tickets are available now at wadsworthsquare.org.
