"Diamonds out of Coal" - Tenacity

written by Mathew Haeffel

vocals/guitars/bass recorded by:

Mathew Haeffel

keys/percussion recorded by:

Dan Budziszewski

drums recorded by:

Marshall McGhee

​

"Diamonds out of Coal" refers to the possibility of rectifying seemingly impossible situations, an understanding that progress is punctuated by setbacks, the necessity of taming expectations, and the virtue of striving for success despite the odds. 

 

The song uses a bouncy swing rhythm under imagery-driven lyrical allusion to emphasize an optimistic tenor infused within the tension of its B minor key.  The final refrain ends in an inspiring crescendo with a simulated record-skipping mantra: "you can make a diamond out of, make a diamond out of, make a diamond out of this coal."

 

External review: ""Diamonds Out of Coal" by Milwaukee native Mathew Haeffel is an uplifting anthem celebrating resilience and the beauty of transformation. With heartfelt lyrics and a melody that radiates warmth, the song captures the essence of finding light in the darkest moments. Haeffel's rich, soulful voice guides listeners on a journey of hope and perseverance, illustrating how life's challenges can lead to unexpected and precious outcomes. The track's optimistic tone and relatable message make it a perfect reminder that even under pressure, we have the power to create something beautiful." (PBS, Rhythm Café MKE, session 2, vol. 31)

​

The lyric video for "Diamonds out of Coal" uses waterfalls, another surprising metamorphosis caused over vast amounts of time, as a stand in for the geological creation of diamonds for which there is an unsurprising dearth of available footage.