Neil Young is one of the most influential and respected musicians of the past six decades. From his early days with Buffalo Springfield to his solo career and work with Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Young has been a voice for social and political issues, as well as a master of songwriting and guitar playing. With over 50 albums to his name, he has amassed a vast and diverse catalog of music that has inspired generations of musicians and fans.
In this article, we will explore the 10 best Neil Young songs of all time. From his most iconic hits to hidden gems, we will dive into the music that has made Young a legend. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music for the first time, this list is sure to showcase the incredible talent and lasting impact of one of rock and roll’s greatest artists. So sit back, turn up the volume, and enjoy the top 10 Neil Young songs of all time.
1. Down by the River
“Down by the River” is a classic Neil Young song that was released on his 1969 album “Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere”. The song features Young’s signature grungy guitar sound and haunting vocals, as he tells a story of a man who has just killed his lover down by the river. The song’s melancholic melody and intense lyrics make it a standout track in Young’s discography, and it has become one of his most beloved songs. The song’s extended guitar solo, which features Young’s iconic use of distortion and feedback, has also become a hallmark of his live performances. “Down by the River” remains a timeless classic that showcases Young’s raw musical talent and poetic lyricism, and it continues to inspire and influence musicians and fans around the world.
2. Rockin’ in the Free World
“Rockin’ in the Free World” is a powerful and politically charged song by Neil Young that was released on his 1989 album “Freedom”. The song’s driving rhythm and catchy chorus are contrasted by its bleak lyrics, which criticize the state of American society and politics in the late 1980s. The song addresses issues such as homelessness, poverty, and the government’s treatment of its citizens. Despite its dark subject matter, “Rockin’ in the Free World” has become a beloved anthem of freedom and hope, and it has been covered by numerous artists in various genres. The song’s message of standing up against injustice and fighting for a better world is as relevant today as it was when it was first released, making it a timeless classic in Neil Young’s extensive discography.
3. Ohio
“Ohio” is a powerful protest song written and performed by Neil Young in response to the tragic events that occurred at Kent State University in 1970. The song was released just days after National Guardsmen opened fire on unarmed students, killing four and injuring nine. With its urgent rhythm and haunting lyrics, “Ohio” quickly became an anthem of the anti-war movement and a symbol of the youth rebellion of the 1960s and 1970s. Young’s raw vocals and blistering guitar solos capture the outrage and frustration of a generation, as he denounces the senseless violence and calls for an end to the Vietnam War. “Ohio” remains one of Young’s most iconic songs, a testament to his ability to use music as a tool for social change and a reminder of the power of protest in the face of injustice.
4. Cortez the Killer
“Cortez the Killer” is a classic Neil Young song that was released on his 1975 album “Zuma”. The song’s slow, moody tempo and ethereal guitar riffs create a haunting atmosphere that perfectly matches the song’s epic, mystical lyrics. The song tells the story of the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés, who led the brutal colonization of Mexico in the 16th century. Young’s lyrics explore themes of greed, violence, and the destructive nature of imperialism, as he paints a vivid portrait of a dark chapter in human history. The song’s extended guitar solo, which features Young’s trademark use of distortion and feedback, has become one of his most iconic musical moments. “Cortez the Killer” is a masterpiece of songwriting and guitar playing, and it remains one of Neil Young’s most beloved and enduring songs.
5. Mr. Soul
“Mr. Soul” is a classic Neil Young song that was originally released on Buffalo Springfield’s 1967 album “Buffalo Springfield Again”. The song features Young’s distinctive voice and intricate guitar playing, as well as his introspective lyrics that touch on themes of identity, authenticity, and artistic expression. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy chorus make it a standout track in Buffalo Springfield’s discography, and it has become one of Young’s most beloved songs. The song’s lyrics also serve as a reflection of Young’s own struggles with fame and success, as he questions the toll that the music industry can take on an artist’s soul. “Mr. Soul” remains a timeless classic that showcases Young’s talent as a songwriter and performer, and it continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans.
6. Cinnamon Girl
“Cinnamon Girl” is a classic Neil Young song that was released on his 1969 album “Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere”. The song’s upbeat tempo, infectious guitar riff, and catchy chorus make it an instantly recognizable and beloved track in Young’s discography. The song’s lyrics speak to the power of love and attraction, as Young sings about a girl who he finds irresistible. The song’s title and chorus have also become iconic, and “Cinnamon Girl” has been covered by numerous artists in various genres. The song’s simple yet effective instrumentation, which features Young’s signature use of distortion and feedback, has become a hallmark of his sound. “Cinnamon Girl” remains a timeless classic that showcases Young’s talent as a songwriter and guitarist, and it continues to be a favorite among fans of classic rock.
7. Southern Man
“Southern Man” is a powerful protest song by Neil Young that was released on his 1970 album “After the Gold Rush”. The song’s driving rhythm and searing guitar solos are paired with Young’s biting lyrics, which address the racism and prejudice that were prevalent in the American South during the 1960s. The song calls out white Southerners for their mistreatment of Black Americans and demands that they take responsibility for their actions. The song’s chorus, “Southern man, better keep your head / Don’t forget what your good book said / Southern change gonna come at last / Now your crosses are burning fast,” has become an iconic rallying cry for social justice and equality. “Southern Man” remains a powerful and relevant song that showcases Young’s ability to use music as a tool for social change and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial justice.
8. Song X
“Song X” is a powerful and experimental song written and performed by Neil Young and jazz guitarist Pat Metheny. The song was released on their collaborative album of the same name in 1986. “Song X” features a unique blend of Young’s rock and folk sensibilities with Metheny’s complex jazz fusion style, resulting in a truly innovative and genre-defying sound. The song’s intricate guitar and saxophone solos showcase the impressive musicianship of both Young and Metheny, while its haunting melody and atmospheric soundscapes create an otherworldly and ethereal atmosphere. “Song X” remains a standout track in both Young’s and Metheny’s discographies, and it stands as a testament to their willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of what was considered traditional music. It is a must-listen for fans of experimental music and creative collaboration.
9. Cowgirl in the Sand
“Cowgirl in the Sand” is a classic Neil Young song that was originally released on his 1969 album “Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere”. The song features Young’s distinctive guitar playing and haunting vocals, as well as his introspective lyrics that touch on themes of love, freedom, and self-discovery. The song’s lengthy guitar solos, which feature Young’s signature use of distortion and feedback, have become iconic moments in his live performances. The song’s title and lyrics have also become legendary, with many fans interpreting the “cowgirl” as a metaphor for a sense of wildness and liberation. “Cowgirl in the Sand” remains a beloved and enduring track in Young’s discography, and it is a must-listen for fans of classic rock and roll.
10. Like a Hurricane
“Like a Hurricane” is a classic Neil Young song that was released on his 1977 album “American Stars ‘n Bars”. The song features Young’s signature distorted guitar sound and powerful vocals, as well as his introspective and poetic lyrics. The song’s haunting melody and intense guitar solos create an epic and hypnotic atmosphere that perfectly captures the song’s theme of love and longing. The song’s lyrics speak to the power of attraction and the emotional turmoil that can come with it, with Young singing, “Once I thought I saw you / In a crowded, hazy bar / Dancing on the light from star to star.” “Like a Hurricane” has become one of Young’s most beloved and enduring songs, and it remains a testament to his skill as a songwriter and musician.