For well over a decade Neil was a must see whenever he came to town, probably the most consistently intense rock concerts, Neil always rose to the occasion. While I believe Neil is still relevant, especially being a senior citizen, I rarely listen to 70's rock icons anymore, not particularly nostalgic for that era of rock anymore. And since his politics has been brought up, I mostly agree with his politics. Saving the family farm, speaking out about totalitarianism and authoritarianism is alright in my book.
Neil Young
Thought I would share a few thoughts here.
Neil Young is again on tour, so I am again giving this artist some thought.
I remember reading an interview with Bryan Ferry where he said that Neil Young was one of his favorite artists. I thought this odd given the glam rock of Roxy Music. But he described Neil Young as a musical chameleon, always changing up his music and bands, which is why he liked him so much.
That quote stuck with me. Buffalo Springfield, Laurel Canyon, Solo Acoustic, CSNY, The Shocking Pinks, The International Harvesters, Rockin’ In The Free World, and so on. Always a new twist for Neil. He really doesn’t stay stagnant.
Then, reading about his current tour it seems at every stop he is breaking out some long forgotten and unplayed live tune to keep his set lists interesting.
I’ve never seen him live, and frankly don’t think I have that much interest in seeing him live. Yet I own a metric ton of his recorded material. I remember reading someone else who described Neil as a one string soloist when it comes to rock guitar playing. That kinda stuck with me.
I do appreciate his approach to analog releases from his vast catalog.
Anyway, he is indeed a hall of famer.