Neil Young is a name that resonates with generations of music enthusiasts, an artist who has captivated audiences with his distinctive voice, raw emotions, and poetic songwriting. With a career spanning over five decades, Young has established himself as one of the most influential singer-songwriters of all time. His unique blend of folk, rock, and country has shaped the landscape of popular music, leaving an indelible mark on countless artists who followed in his footsteps. As we delve into the vast discography of this musical icon, we embark on a journey through his top 10 best songs of all time. From introspective ballads that tug at the heartstrings to politically charged anthems that ignite the spirit of activism, Young’s music encompasses a wide range of themes and emotions. Each song on this list represents a masterpiece, a snapshot of Young’s unparalleled talent and unwavering commitment to artistic integrity. So join us as we explore the sonic tapestry woven by Neil Young, celebrating his enduring legacy and the songs that have touched the souls of millions across the globe.
1. “Like a Hurricane”
Neil Young's iconic song, heralded as a masterpiece by fans and critics alike, "Like a Hurricane" is one of his most defining pieces. This intense rock anthem features some of the best guitar work of Neil Young's career and lyrics that encapsulate a haunting melancholy.
The song is fraught with raw emotion and powerfully conveys the feeling of being caught in the eye of the storm. The chorus, with its repeated phrase "I am just a dreamer," echoes the restless spirit and existential angst that frequently characterizes Neil Young's music.
There are numerous live versions and covers of this classic song, each offering their interpretation, but none can quite replicate the visceral impact of the original composition.
As an interesting fact – during one live performance of this song in 1976, Young played so hard that he broke three strings on his guitar.
Listening to 'Cortez the Killer' is like watching a cowboy movie but with a much higher body count.
2. “Cortez the Killer”
One of Neil Young's top tracks is a mysterious tale of Spanish conquest: the song commonly known by the name “Cortez the Killer”. In this song, Young crafted an epic six-minute soundscape that depicts the horrific encounter between Spanish explorer Hernán Cortés and Aztec leader Montezuma. Mysterious, dreamy guitar riffs underscored by haunting drums help to build tension throughout this masterpiece, making it one of Young's most captivating works.
What makes “Cortez the Killer” stand out is its storytelling prowess. Young uses vivid lyrics to paint a picture of Spanish conquistadors sweeping through Mexico, brutally wiping out anything in their path. The song climaxes with the ominous lines "And he Gonna Wreck It Down" sung over and over again as if to signal impending doom.
It’s interesting to note that Young wrote this song while touring with his band Crazy Horse in Spain during Franco’s regime. Throughout his career, Neil Young has often used his music as a platform for political commentary — “Cortez the Killer” is no exception.
According to Rolling Stone, in an interview with Johnny Rogan, Young said he wrote “Cortez The Killer” while recuperating from back surgery at his Ranch in Topanga Canyon.
Neil Young's 'Song X' proves that even if aliens invade Earth and take over the music industry, his songs will still be playing in Area 51.
3. “Song X”
This particular song by Neil Young is a masterpiece that showcases his raw talent and passion for music. It is evident that the lyrics were crafted with utmost care and precision, as they resonate with audiences even today. The melody and rhythm of the song complement each other perfectly, creating an experience that lingers on long after the last note has been played.
One cannot overlook the political undertones of Song X, which adds to its beauty and depth. Neil Young's ability to use his music as a tool to raise awareness about social issues is remarkable. This song undoubtedly holds a special place in the hearts of his fans.
It's worth mentioning that although this song may not have received as much commercial success as some of Neil Young's other hits, it remains one of his most significant contributions to music history. Its impact on musicians and listeners alike cannot be denied.
There's an interesting anecdote behind the creation of this song that highlights just how invested Neil Young was in creating music that spoke to people on more than just a surface level. As he worked on Song X, he reportedly spent hours perfecting every aspect of it, from the lyrics to the melody, until he was satisfied with it fully. This commitment to excellence is what makes him one of the greatest artists of all time.
Neil Young's 'Rockin' in the Free World' is the perfect anthem for those who want to rock out and protest the system at the same time.
4. “Rockin’ in the Free World”
Neil Young's politically charged oeuvre is infused with his raw emotion, and "Rockin' in the Free World" remains one of his most emblematic songs. A searing indictment of contemporary American society, the song seems increasingly relevant today.
The song offers a bleak depiction of life in the USA amidst growing political unrest and economic inequality. It challenges us to confront the issues we face as a society and speaks to our deepest fears and anxieties. The blistering guitar riffs add to its intensity, cementing it as an enduring rock standard.
Notably, this song has been polarizing, with some listeners hailing it as a powerful anthem while others criticize it for perpetuating negative stereotypes about America. Regardless of which side you take, there is no denying that this haunting melody will stick with you long after the final chord has been struck.
This song has deep roots in Neil's personal experiences too: he was inspired to write it after seeing homeless people living on the streets during a visit to Los Angeles. Its themes reverberate around our world today, as the global pandemic has highlighted economic disparities across countries, making this track ever more impactful and significant than ever before.
Neil Young takes us on a dark, twisted journey down the river, where murder and melancholy are the only constants.
5. “Down by the River”
One of Neil Young's top 10 songs is a somber tune that tells a story of regret and longing.
The song features powerful guitar chords and dissonant harmonies that reflect the raw emotions conveyed in the lyrics. Young beautifully captures the essence of heartache and loss through his passionate delivery.
Listeners can feel the pain of the protagonist who takes someone's life in a moment of passion, only to be consumed with guilt and remorse later on. Young's masterful storytelling technique combined with his unique musical style sets this song apart from others in his discography.
It's worth noting that "Down by the River" was one of several songs recorded live in one take during sessions for Young's iconic album "Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere." This fact speaks to his exceptional talent as a musician and songwriter.
She's a cowgirl in the sand, but Neil Young is the one who's really riding the wave of success with this classic tune.
6. “Cowgirl in the Sand”
Neil Young's classic "Cowgirl in the Sand" is a timeless song about love and loss. The track, which features a gritty guitar riff and powerful vocals, has become a fan favorite and an essential part of Young's catalog.
Young wrote the song in 1969, during a time of personal turmoil. The lyrics are filled with regret and longing, as the narrator laments the loss of a lover who was once like a "cowgirl in the sand".
The song is notable for its extended guitar solos, which showcase Young's virtuosity on the instrument. The musicianship is raw and emotional, perfectly capturing the rawness of the lyrics.
While "Cowgirl in the Sand" may not be as well-known as some of Neil Young's other hits, it remains one of his most beloved songs. Its timeless themes and powerful musicianship make it a true classic.
Source: Rolling Stone Magazine
Listening to 'Cinnamon Girl' is like a warm hug from Neil Young… if that hug was wearing a leather jacket and riding a motorcycle.
7. “Cinnamon Girl”
This Neil Young classic, named after the singer's friend's girlfriend, exudes power and mystery in equal measure. The distinctive guitar riff stirs up anticipation from the very beginning as Neil's voice cuts through with urgency. The lyrics are simple yet evocative, celebrating feminine allure and provoking imagery of sun-soaked landscapes. "Cinnamon Girl" remains a favorite among fans and critics alike due to its infectious energy and impressive musical arrangement.
With its galloping beat and soaring chorus, "Cinnamon Girl" has become a staple of classic rock radio stations worldwide. The song showcases Young's signature vocal style and guitar work, which combine to create a raw sound that perfectly encapsulates the song's themes. The roots of this song lie in Young's admiration for strong-willed women, but it also hints at his preoccupation with loneliness and internal struggles.
While many songs on this list are known for their profound lyrics or intricate arrangements, "Cinnamon Girl" is most celebrated for its unadulterated rock energy. It has been covered countless times by other artists over the years, each one adding their own spin to the beloved classic. Listening to this song today still makes you want to crank up the volume and feel that infectious vibe fill the room.
For those looking to capture some of the spirit of "Cinnamon Girl," consider exploring other Neil Young songs from his early career and experimenting with different guitar techniques to find your own unique sound. Pay attention to how different notes can evoke different emotions in your music-making process, taking cues from Young's rich catalog of work.
Neil Young raises his voice and protests with 'Ohio', proving that even rock legends can get political.
8. “Ohio”
This track is an undeniable political anthem that addresses the tragedy of the Kent State shooting incident in Ohio, 1970. Neil Young took it on himself to spread a message of unrest, anger and sadness through this heart-wrenching piece. The lyrics are sharp, poignant, and gut-wrenchingly honest about the events that transpired, and Young's vocal delivery reflects that perfectly. It's no doubt one of his most powerful songs and continues to resonate with audiences all over the world.
In this song, Young doesn't hold back his emotions as he recalls the tragic day when four unarmed protestors were killed by National Guardsmen during an anti-war protest at Ohio's Kent State University. The lyrics are raw and heartfelt as Young sings "Tin soldiers and Nixon coming/ We're finally on our own/ This summer I hear the drumming/ Four dead in Ohio". These words continue to remind us of the brutality of those times and how pivotal this moment was for America.
Young's decision to write a politically charged song in response to such a tragedy has not only made “Ohio” a classic tune but also opened doors for musicians to use their platform as a way of tackling real-life issues affecting society.
Neil Young wrote "Ohio" shortly after watching the footage of the Kent State Massacre on television – he immediately knew he had something to say about it. As soon as David Crosby heard “Ohio”, he suggested they record it right away, which they did with Crazy Horse and CSNY (Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young) backing them up. The song was only available on vinyl singles at first but was later included in their two-album compilation “Decade”.
If aliens threatened to destroy Earth unless we played them a Neil Young song, Mr. Soul would be our last hope.
9. “Mr. Soul”
This selection of the best Neil Young songs of all time includes a classic – “Mr. Soul”. A song that stands out for its raw energy and catchy riffs. The track was released in 1967 as part of Buffalo Springfield's second album, and it showcases Young's unique voice and trademark guitar sound.
“Mr. Soul” is a reflection of the times when it was created – a time of political change and counter-culture revolution. With its lyrics about disorientation and disillusionment, it resonated with many young people who were seeking authenticity and truth.
What makes "Mr. Soul" stand out is its simplicity and directness. It doesn't rely on complex instrumentation or elaborate production techniques to make an impact. Instead, it relies on Neil Young’s raw talent as a songwriter and guitarist.
If you haven’t listened to “Mr. Soul” before, we highly recommend giving it a try. You might find yourself humming its unforgettable riff all day long!
Neil Young takes on Southern racism with a guitar instead of a protest sign.
10. “Southern Man”
This remarkable Neil Young classic, which is part of his extraordinary album “After the Gold Rush”, merits our attention as #10 on our list of his best works. “Southern Man” speaks directly to the ingrained hatred and racism in Southern society, as well as its cruel legacy of lynching and slavery. With powerful lyrics, Neil Young gives voice to the stricken Black populace in their quest for justice. His compelling performance and masterful songwriting make this one of his definitive works.
Young’s songwriting in "Southern Man" captures the essence of racial injustice that scarred America's Deep South. It comes alive through hard-hitting lines like "I saw cotton and I saw black tall white mansions and little shacks. Southern man when will you pay them back?" With electric guitar riffs and strong vocal delivery, “Southern Man” stood out during the civil rights era; it remains one of Young's timeless classics that continues to resonate with mainstream music lovers today.
What makes this composition unique is not just its powerful theme but also how it has stood the test of time. Nearly 50 years after its release, it continues to inspire protests against systemic racism across nations. As a testament to its enduring relevance, "Southern Man" featured prominently in American hit TV series like "Breaking Bad" more than four decades after its initial release – where certain cover versions were even performed by popular bands such as Pearl Jam.
It is impossible to miss the lasting impact Neil Young’s music has had on generations of listeners across all continents around the globe. If you haven't heard “Southern Man,” yet – you should listen now before you miss out; only then you'd truly understand why he still reigns supreme among singer-songwriters from many genres worldwide.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
