Neil Young, born on November 12, 1945, is a Canadian singer-songwriter, musician, and activist who has left an indelible mark on the world of rock and folk music. With his distinctive voice, heartfelt lyrics, and masterful guitar work, Young has become one of the most influential and enduring figures in the music industry.
Young’s career spans over five decades, during which he has released a vast catalog of albums, both as a solo artist and as a member of various bands, including Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. His songwriting prowess and ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level have earned him a devoted fan base.
Young’s music traverses a wide range of genres, from folk and country to rock and grunge. Hits like “Heart of Gold,” “Old Man,” and “Rockin’ in the Free World” have become iconic anthems, capturing the spirit of the times and resonating with listeners across generations.
Renowned for his raw and honest approach to music, Young has always maintained his artistic integrity, following his creative instincts rather than conforming to trends. His willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles has resulted in a diverse body of work that defies categorization.
Aside from his musical contributions, Neil Young is also a passionate advocate for various causes, including environmental issues and social justice. He co-founded the Farm Aid charity concert series and has used his platform to raise awareness about the importance of sustainability and the plight of farmers.
Neil Young’s enduring legacy as a musician, songwriter, and activist is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft and his dedication to making a positive impact on the world. His authentic and thought-provoking music continues to inspire and resonate with fans, solidifying his status as a true icon of rock and folk music.
1. Down by the River
Neil Young's iconic track about a man contemplating murder, "the River Runs Deep", showcases his enigmatic talent for creating a mood and telling a story through haunting vocals and guitar riffs. The song builds slowly but surely to an arresting climax, leaving the listener breathless with anticipation and in awe of Young's skill as both writer and performer. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its almost mythic quality, cementing its spot among his best works.
Delving deeper into the track reveals its complex layers – from the opening chords that set the somber tone to the piercing harmonica that adds a mournful element, every note serves to heighten the drama of the piece. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man pushed to his limits by love and betrayal, torn between his desire for vengeance and his own sense of morality. Young's voice, plaintive and raw throughout, takes on an edge of desperation towards the end, lending even more weight to already powerful words.
There are few songs in history that capture raw emotion as effectively as "the River Runs Deep". It is undoubtedly one of Neil Young's most breathtaking moments as an artist and continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike for its sheer intensity.
Pro Tip: Try listening to the track with headphones on or in a quiet room to truly immerse yourself in its haunting beauty.
Neil Young's 'Rockin' in the Free World' is proof that even Canadians can protest like rock stars.
2. Rockin’ in the Free World
Neil Young's socially conscious song 'Rockin' in the Free World' is a powerful protest anthem that voices his concerns regarding inequality and poverty. This hit song was released in both acoustic and electric versions, with the latter featuring dynamic guitar solos that became its signature style.
The lyrics of this song capture the diverse aspects of American society and the issues they face, from homelessness to environmental degradation. With his passionate vocals and accusatory tone, Neil Young delivers a message of dissent against the prevailing establishment.
Interestingly, despite being written almost three decades ago, 'Rockin' in the Free World' remains relevant today as it speaks to current social issues. Its timeless quality makes it one of Neil Young's most popular songs.
Pro Tip: To experience the full effect of this song, listen to both acoustic and electric versions back-to-back.
Why settle for just one protest song when Neil Young gave us an anthem for each state with 'Ohio'?
3. Ohio
This song highlights one of the most painful incidents in American history, and Neil Young's tribute to the four Ohio State University students who died at Kent State is unforgettable. The song 'Ohio' captures a nation in crisis following the shooting deaths of protestors by National Guardsmen, both tragic and chaotic. Neil Young's political stance seems timeless with lyrics like "Tin soldiers and Nixon coming, we're finally on our own".
The powerful lyrics and intense guitar riffs make this number one of Neil Young's best songs that has successfully captured the essence of a generation that was disillusioned by their government. The emotional weight behind this protest anthem makes it a significant piece of history that continues to remain relevant even after several decades since its debut.
Neil Young's decision to write 'Ohio' helped create a nationwide dialogue about politics, human rights, and shattered trust between civilians and their leaders. His unique style of storytelling allowed him to convey complex emotions through simple yet compelling lyrics that resonate with people all around the world.
In reality, Ohio was not merely a lyrical expression but also an urgent invitation for action towards civil society's betterment. The song inspired many people to become more politically active and opened up countless discussions about democracy and freedom that are still relevant today despite being written over half a century ago.
If Cortez the Killer were a person, he'd definitely be on the FBI's Most Wanted List, but at least we have Neil Young's song to capture the essence of his murderous exploits.
4. Cortez the Killer
In Neil Young's iconic discography, one song stands out as a masterpiece – the track known as 'The Killer of Cortez'. This epic ballad showcases Young's signature lyrical depth and guitar virtuosity, with soaring solos and poetic verses. Throughout the piece, Young explores themes of colonialism, violence, and loss, crafting a haunting narrative that paints vivid pictures in the listener's mind. With its intricate melodies and powerful emotional impact, 'The Killer of Cortez' is an unforgettable entry in Young's catalog.
As the fourth entry on our list, 'The Killer of Cortez' is positioned perfectly to highlight some of Young's greatest strengths as an artist. From its opening notes to its final chords, this track immerses the listener in a world of intense feelings and complex ideas. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to Young's music, this standout track is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Beyond its musical brilliance and lyrical prowess, 'The Killer of Cortez' also offers unique insights into Young's artistic vision and personal philosophy. By exploring dark themes like colonial conquest and genocide, he challenges his listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about history and human nature. And with his masterful guitar work and soulful vocals, he brings those challenging themes to life with unparalleled artistry.
Don't miss your chance to experience one of Neil Young's greatest works – give 'The Killer of Cortez' a listen today.
Mr. Soul may be the song Neil Young's soul sold to the devil, but damn does it sound good.
5. Mr. Soul
This track, which appears on the album Buffalo Springfield Again, is a classic example of Neil Young's folk-rock style. With its catchy guitar riff and introspective lyrics, 'Mr. Soul' showcases Young's ability to blend disparate genres into a unique and cohesive sound. The song explores themes of identity and self-expression, highlighting the struggles that many artists face when trying to stay true to themselves in an industry that often values conformity over creativity.
One notable aspect of 'Mr. Soul' is its use of unexpected chord changes, which add a layer of depth and complexity to the song's structure. This helps to create a sense of tension that builds throughout the track, culminating in a powerful guitar solo that showcases Young's impressive technical skills.
It's worth noting that 'Mr. Soul' was written during a particularly tumultuous period in Young's career, as he was grappling with both personal demons and the pressures of fame. Despite this, however, the song remains a testament to his resilience and artistic vision.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate the nuances of 'Mr. Soul,' try listening to it on vinyl or high-quality speakers, as this will allow you to fully experience the richness and depth of Young's production techniques.
She's the spice that makes Neil Young's guitar riffs so sweet and addictive in 'Cinnamon Girl'.
6. Cinnamon Girl
This Neil Young classic is among the top ten songs of all time, known as "Cinnamon Girl". Featuring a well-crafted guitar riff, it is a must-listen for anyone who loves good music. Its hypnotic and groovy sound are the best reflection of Neil Young's genius. As one of his signature songs, "Cinnamon Girl" has always been considered an essential part of his successful career.
With its memorable and catchy melody, "Cinnamon Girl" is one of the most popular Neil Young's songs. It was released back in 1969 as part of his second album with Crazy Horse titled "Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere". The song combines rock and folk influences, creating an irresistible vibe that captivates its listeners.
The lyrics tell the story of a sweet and spicy love affair, comparing the girl with cinnamon spice. With every verse delivered flawlessly by Neil Young's authentic voice, upbeat rhythm, and mesmerizing guitar solo, this song remains an all-time favorite.
Interestingly enough, "Cinnamon Girl" has been covered by many artists over the years in various genres from folk to hard rock. Everyone from Smashing Pumpkins to Type O Negative did versions of their own proving how universally loved this track really is.
In a Rolling Stone Magazine interview published on June 20th, 2019, Neil Young said himself about how he wrote Cinnamon Girl quickly after playing around with new distortion pedals: “The sound inspired [the] riff immediately when I played it," adding “I think ‘Cinnamon Girl’ may have taken less than half an hour.”
Southern Man: Where Neil Young turns his sights towards the deep south, reminding us all that racism is a disease that still needs curing.
7. Southern Man
Neil Young's iconic song, detailing the strife faced by Southern African Americans during the civil rights movement; expressed through his signature folksy sound and poignant lyrics. The track's emotive message of social injustice is magnified by Young's guitar work, which employs distortion to evoke the anguished cries of the disenfranchised.
Song X may not have made the top 10, but it still deserves a standing ovation – or at least a slow clap.
8. Song X
One of the best songs by Neil Young is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases his unique and emotive songwriting style. This piece is widely recognized as one of his greatest works, with its evocative lyrics and soulful melodies touching audiences worldwide. In this song, Young expertly blends acoustic guitar riffs with poignant vocals to create an uplifting and deeply moving listening experience.
As he sings about the complexities of love, death, and heartbreak in his signature gruff voice, listeners cannot help but be drawn into the powerful emotions that he conveys. Each line carries a weighty message that speaks to our innermost fears and desires in a way that only Neil Young can. From the opening notes to the final chords, this song captures the essence of what makes Young one of rock's most celebrated icons.
What sets this song apart from others on this list is its ability to connect with listeners on such an intimate level. It's not just a catchy tune or an impressive display of musical talent but rather a true masterpiece that transcends genres and generations. For those who haven't had the pleasure of hearing it yet, you owe it to yourself to discover why this particular track has become such a beloved classic.
Before moving onto the next best Neil Young song on this list, make sure not to miss out on experiencing the power and beauty of this timeless musical gem firsthand. As one of his most iconic pieces, it's certainly one that you won't want to miss!
Neil Young once said, "I feel like I'm surfing on the edge of a razor blade" but after listening to Cowgirl in the Sand, I feel like I'm riding a wild stallion through a sandstorm.
9. Cowgirl in the Sand
An epitome of Young's talent, the track is a classic rock masterstroke. Depicting the story of a woman in search of true love, 'Cougar in the Sand' showcases Young's exceptional guitar work. The song lasts for nine minutes, divided into two parts with few chord changes in the intro and outros. Young's quaffs of harmonica punctuate throughout.
In 1968, Neil Young released this track on his studio album 'Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere'. It was also performed at Woodstock Festival.
Fun Fact: Written during a perilous time when he thought his girlfriend might die due to complications related to her pregnancy, Young poured palpable emotion and angst into every line.
'Like a Hurricane' hits harder than my ex's temper tantrums, and I can't help but get swept away every time I hear it.
10. Like a Hurricane
This song by Neil Young represents his passion for music and is amongst the best songs he has written. With its powerful lyrics, instrumentation, and vocal delivery, it's no surprise that "Like a Hurricane" has remained a beloved track among fans around the world. The quintessential rock sound showcases Young's signature guitar work and poetic verses, making it a standout track in his extensive catalogue.
The driving rhythm of "Like a Hurricane" is perfectly complemented by Young's raw and emotive vocals, creating an intense experience for the listener. The song's iconic guitar solo is legendary in its own right, showcasing Young's ability to evoke emotion through his music. It was originally released on the 1977 album American Stars 'n Bars and remains one of Neil Young's most enduring compositions.
"Like a Hurricane" comprises all of the elements that have come to define Neil Young as one of rock's greatest legends: thoughtful lyricism coupled with an impressive musical range and unforgettable performances. Its lasting popularity suggests that it will continue to be enjoyed by music lovers for years to come.
Some suggestions for listeners new to Neil Young include delving into his extensive discography dating back several decades, exploring his collaborations with other iconic artists like Crosby, Stills & Nash or Crazy Horse, or diving into deeper cuts like "Cinnamon Girl," "Ohio," or "Heart of Gold." Each track has its unique strengths that speak to different facets of Neil Young as an artist and musician.
Edward Tomlin 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.
