The Neil Diamond Tribute show in Verdun

"Response is so good that I always get invited back wherever I perform," says Purpura, who has made a career of singing hits such as Cracklin' Rosie, Cherry Cherry, Forever in Blue Jeans and Sweet Caroline.

The 32-year-old former Montrealer, who now resides in Mississauga, will be showcasing his tribute show in Montreal for the first time ever. "I'm really excited," he says. "Especially since my family and friends will be there."

Purpura has always had the knack for impersonations but he struck gold -- or Diamond, in this case -- when he hit upon hitmaker Neil Diamond. "It's funny," said Purpura, "but I wasn't very familiar with Neil Diamond's vast song list when I started doing the impersonation."

His first show consisted of two 15-minute sets. Encouraged to go on, he added to his repertoire.

"I had no idea how beloved Neil Diamond is," says the tribute artist. "And I had no idea how powerful his music was - and still is - to people." Joey’s Neil Diamond Tribute: Diamond in the Rough, serves up a feel good tonic of dance’n’cheer…celebrating the power, energy and emotion of DIAMOND’s music to joyous and heart felt perfection. Cracklin’ Rosie, Sweet Caroline, America, Love on the Rocks, I’m a Believer and many more Neil Diamond classics.

See for yourself when Diamond in the Rough plays the Verdun Legion Saturday, April 14 at 8 P.M., 4538 Verdun Avenue Tickets 15 in advance/$20 at the door. Doors open at 7:15 P.M. Pick up tickets at Legion club room. Phone: 514 769-2489