This photo of Neil Diamond, right, and impersonator Jay White was signed by the legendary crooner in December 2002. White is circulating a petition to have Diamond inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008 | 12:01 a.m.
What's good for Neil Diamond is good for Jay White.
He has impersonated the crooner for about half his life. White thinks it's time for Diamond to get into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
"I've had an entire career for 25 years because of him. I'd like to return the favor," said White, a Strip entertainer who lives in Green Valley.
Thousands have signed a petition White started in November to do just that. Many sign after White's Riviera tribute concert, but the petition is also available on his Web site, AmericasDiamondLive.com.
White first saw Diamond perform in 1978. White was singing just as a hobby.
"I sat in the 10th row, center of the theater," White said. "As I watched and listened, I thought this guy has the greatest songs I've ever heard. I immediately became a fan."
He was egged on by a few friends to start an impersonation act. White shaved his mustache and got a Diamond-inspired coif. He auditioned for a local tribute show in 1983 at a club in Detroit.
Six months later, White quit his day job and has been performing as Diamond since.
White is grateful to have found his niche. He has a brief appearance as Diamond in Ron Howard's new "Frost/Nixon" film, and has written a musical based on Diamond's life. It will star himself, of course. He's even drawn up mock stage designs.
Publicists for Diamond, who has sold more than 125 million records worldwide, couldn't be reached for comment.
Diamond, who has earned a Grammy and a Golden Globe, is scheduled to perform at 8 p.m. Jan. 2 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
His shows feature classics such as "Sweet Caroline," "I'm a Believer" and "Cherry, Cherry," as well as new songs from his album "Home Before Dark," his second collaboration with producer Rick Rubin. Tickets cost $50 to $175.
Call 474-4000 or visit www.MGMgrand.com for information.
White's Riviera shows are at 7 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays. For information visit AmericasDiamondLive.com.
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