What's It Gonna Be (Alternate Take)

Neil Diamond · Other Songs - Neil Diamond

First you're runnin' one way

Then you run another

Thinkin' you'd discover

What you really need

Runnin' in circles

Gonna get you nowhere

Why you wanna go there

Where's it gonna lead



What's it gonna be when the night is cold

What's it gonna be when the morning scares you

Put your reservations all on hold

Climb aboard and ride with me

Lonely gets you nowhere

Only gets you zero

May not be a hero

May be what you need

One way or another

Need a new direction

Make a new connection

Hey, what's it gonna be



What's it gonna be do we take a chance

Are you gonna let the night defeat you

If you're tellin' me that you just won't dance

I say try it on and see

Move a little closer

Try a little harder

Dancing with a partner

Helps you find the beat

Time to lay it out there

Before it's movin' past you

Once again, I'll ask you

What's it gonna be



What's it gonna be do we take a cold

What's it gonna be when the morning scares you

Put your reservations all on hold

Climb aboard and ride with me

Runnin' in circles

Gonna get you nowhere

Why'd you wanna go there

Where's it gonna lead

Now what's it gonna be

What's it gonna be

What's it gonna be

What's it gonna be

What's It Gonna Be (Alternate Take)

Neil Diamond's 'What's It Gonna Be' stands as a quintessential example of his mid-career pop sensibility, blending smooth vocal delivery with a melodic structure that defined the late 1960s and early 1970s. While the original recording is widely recognized, this alternate take offers a distinct performance variation that highlights Diamond's versatility as a songwriter and interpreter. The track exemplifies the era's characteristic blend of romantic yearning and polished production, showcasing Diamond's ability to craft songs that resonated across generations. As part of his extensive discography, this recording reinforces his status as a master of the ballad and pop standards, contributing to a body of work that continues to influence contemporary artists. The song remains a testament to Diamond's enduring appeal and his skill in capturing the emotional nuances of personal relationships through accessible yet sophisticated musical arrangements.