Neil Diamond

Credit: Lester Cohen/WireImage

Inside the All-Star MusiCares Tribute to Neil Diamond

Originally posted 02/07/2009 02:00PM

The night was a tribute to Neil Diamond, but it was Jennifer Hudson's moving take on his 1969 hit "Holly Holy" that brought down the house.

Wearing a gold jacket and black satin pantsuit, Hudson – backed by three singers – was serious and soulful in her powerful performance, which drew cheers from the audience three times during the song, especially when she hit high notes with a lot of vibrato.

The Los Angeles Convention Center audience of more than 1,500 immediately rose to its feet in a standing ovation as she mouthed the words "thank you" and took a small bow. As she looked up and saw the entire room standing and clapping, a look of genuine surprise came over her face, and her mouth fell open. She again mouthed the words "thank you," and waved to the crowd in appreciation.

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