I’ve heard people say Neil Young does not have a good voice. It blows me away. If I hear Neil Young sing one note, I know it’s him. And the guts to command a room like this with just you, your guitar, and your harmonica is astounding. If there is such a thing as perfect in music, despite any flaws we could try to point out technically, this performance is it. It entertains, it communicates, it transports the listener into the realm where emotion and imagination tell stories.
I think that Neil Young is an absolutely terrible singer. And yet he's one of my favourite singers to listen to. I can't reconcile the two. I don't even try any more. I just sit back and enjoy.
As a journeyman singer, I can hear him dial it back as he starts to belt to maintain the resonance. He never flinched, even though he is navigating what every singer experiences and what produces a lot of anxiety in most of us. This is a great performance of an original song. Another thing I love about Neil is that he never overstates himself instrumentally. He’s not trying to impress with his technical prowess, he has something to say and does it with great artistry.
He's an excellent singer and a great songwriter, much better (imo, of course) than the typical names that get tossed around. He does his own thing, within a wide emotional range. What's not to like?!
Almost 50 years later and now I'M the "old man". Brought tears to my eyes then and still does to this day. Music of this quality transcends generations.
Neil Young is one of those artists whose voice isn't necessarily what everyone would agree is of great "quality"... and yet, it is so real, and so expressive, that it reaches a level of beauty that even some "perfect" voices could never achieve.
But in fact, beyond the rawness (intentional) is pretty much flawless intonation. He lives in the songs, not in the outmoded concept of trying to be a perfect vocalist. Another kind of perfection. But...perfectly musical nonetheless. Same with his guitar playing. He just doesn’t play bad notes nor write parts that do not work.
Neil was a few months into 25 during this performance. He wrote in my opinion his best album After the Gold Rush at ages 23-24. For him to write an album like that at such a young age is genius. He is a special artist.
@@bendagostino2217 Was his first album with songs like Southern Man , Don't let it bring you down , After the Gold rush and more . Few months after the album was released had made enough money to buy his ranch , where he met the Old man . Forgot his name , but was already the ranch care taker and never left until he passed away .
@@markriobr "After the Gold Rush" was his third album, released in 1970. I think he bought the ranch (Broken Arrow) in 1969 after the success of especially his second album, "Everybody knows this is nowhere".
"There is nothing lost between what Neil Young feels, what he plays, and what the audience experiences" Still the best quote about Neil I've ever heard.
@@jerrymyers1798 You poor thing. I'm curious, just how many years *did* it take? I've always felt like I was late, I started really listening to rock music in the late '70s...which is when I started appreciating his music.
it seems like Neil is not just singing this song, but it's like he's living it. There is a sincerity that comes out at the beginning and stays with the listener right to the end.
There's no way to be overly enthusiastic about this artist. I was that transfixed young person, now 70. Neil was & is the shining jewel, to me, of excellence.
Piercing. I feel just the way I felt when I was 22 and living in Canada. His dad wrote for a newspaper in Toronto and he used to write about Neil sometimes. Beautiful. Thank you, Fil.
How can someone who was 24 yrs old write a song so deep with insight and emotion about an old man in his 70's with over 50 years of experience and living in his young age. He is not only brilliant , he is an old soul.
Fil any negative comments about you are preposterous you do a great job where is George lynch on your fav list I saw you play in my dreams and it was nice 1986 solo of the year
'But every junkies like the setting sun' a great pay-off at the end of the tune. It was apparently for his great friend (and brilliant musician also) danny whitten who had just died from an overdose..imo all of the best music comes from some sort of tragedy..peace. : )
@@damotheman4196 Neil gives a little background before the song on the Massey Hall cd . no names but "some that everybody heard about" imo meaning Hendrix and Joplin. And "some that you didn't hear about" imo that's Danny Whitten and Bruce Berry. Massey Hall is a great CD for the music but also for the tidbits of background Neil gives for some if the songs.
Ah, the 1960s and ‘70s! Back then, You didn’t have to be pretty, or polished, or... y’know... showered, and You didn’t have to smell good, or be perfectly on pitch. You just had to sing Your heart out, and touch, move, inspire, evoke an experience. Life was urgent and lived directly. Art was enough; artists were enough. We were close to a breakthrough in what it is to Be Human. We almost made it. Then, the gravitational pull of the ordinary slammed us to the ground. Maybe Your generation will finish that project. Keep the faith, Dear Fil! ❤️
Neil Young is in a class by himself. If you haven't watched him receive a Canadian award, watch it. He says "I KNOW I CAN'T SING" the audience cracks up. An amazing musician and poet. I love his music, always !
One of the greatest critiques I’ve seen on you tube. Neil is one of the very few that can absolutely captivate and control an audience with a guitar and a voice. Sublime
worked for Neil a lot in the 80s when he reunited with Crazy Horse..... my roadie days..... he still remembers my name when paths are crossed today...great person away from the music, knows a lot about cars to toy trains to making homemade beer and mixing concrete.
Seen Neil in concert solo, with Crazy Horse, with Crosby, Stills and Nash, with The International Harvesters ,with The Blue Notes and The Shocking Pinks 19 times total with 3 generations of family. Never disappointed. Plays and sings with such passion in so many different types of music. And his lyrics are incredible. Tears, goosebumps and adrenaline rushes when going to his shows. Hope he can keep on Rockin in the Free World for a long time to come!!!
Spot on analysis. You are so right in that having a technically perfect/correct vocal, whether natural or produced doesn’t guarantee connecting a lyric and song to your audience. I was in high school in the 70s and Neil Young was one of our staples. Part of what I think makes his writing so powerful is you are not distracted by overproduction and vocal theatrics. I miss songs that actually tell a story. It seems a lot of our music today is lacking in that area.
Great review Fil. The entire Neil Young concert at the BBC is wonderful. Kudos to a public broadcaster that had the ears and foresight to record so many ARTISTS - and let them play real music. These are recorded treasures.
Agreed. This stuff was coming out brand new on commercial radio. Nothing like this anymore. Sure great music is still being produced, but no one really gets to hear it.
When the mind is preoccupied, the brain remains dormant...as Phil is saying about kids once being innovators of music, today they are prisoners to electronics.
Robin Trower does that in "Daydream" AKA "Spellbound". SRC does it in "Eye Of The Storm" too. Of course there's nothing wrong with doing that with a thousand notes like the Hellecasters or Dixie Dregs, either.
‘Sir Fil’, What I also love is that, with his eyes closed, Neil leaves this plane and goes somewhere we cannot follow. Yet, we reap the benefits with what he SHARES with us. God bless, Marianne aka Celtic Gal ❤ 5:34
Old Man, Helpless, Heart Of Gold and After The Gold Rush so many moving soulful songs from Neil I new back in the day they'd be timeless. I still love them today, Late 60's early 70's I was a teenager, we were spoiled, we had a freedom that may never be experienced by future generations. I just wonder were their spiritual inspiration will be coming from. Great work.
@Dr. Hannibal Lester it's kind of like jimmy page & his guitar work. there r guitarists that r technically superior & will play circles around him, especially when he plays sloppily. but his creativity & ingenuity r what make me such a fan of his music, as w/neil young.
Today's performance coaches tell the artist to open their eyes for the audience...to me, a performance is more powerful with their eyes closed or whatever is natural to the artist...Neil always touched me with that haunting voice and inward performance.
Our country, Canada, produced incredible talent in the sixties and seventies. Neil could inexplicably create wonder-worlds fully formed. Expecting to Fly also comes to mind. Thanks for seeing the whole forest.
No one could do a better job than this review of Neil Young. He was brilliant and wise beyond his years as you suggest. You have those qualities too! Thanks for this salute to a man time will not forget.
I'm an old woman and I'm crying too. Looking back on all the great memories. The way the whole world has changed is mind blowing. We had such hope for change back in yhe day. The music was magic. Neil's lyrics so profound.
Neil Young is an absolute genius and you're right about remembrances. I was 21 years old when Harvest came out in 1972 and was emotionally floored by the album and by this song in particular. This live BBC recording was made in 1971 and before the album was released. Like you said in your review the audience has no idea of the impact the song will have and the legendary caliber of the performer and performance. I'll be 68 in April and this performance still hits me emotionally and even more profoundly now that I'm in the downhill slide. By the way Fil I think this is one of your most poignant reviews yet.
Pity BBC has gone the way it has-back then they would show lots of concerts-Mike Oldfield doing Tubular Bells in their studios is another one to watch & you had OId Grey Whistle Test, now the only thing approaching a half decent music show like that on television is Jools Holland-but it has zero atmosphere.
Hi, Fil, your analysis on Neil Young was spot on! His strong lyrics told a story, about how we were back then,us ol' Rockers, listening to those lyrics now, appreciate how meaningful they are because for the first time in years, i really listened to this video, and really got the true meaning of this song and it's message..... You really know your "Stuff" Rock!
Hey Fil. Another great analysis video. I was surprised when Neil went upb1 octave. Didn't know he has that much range. My other favorites of Neil's are Southern Man and Helpless. Keep up the great work Fil. Rock!
You're wise beyond your years, Fil! I have watched this exact video for more times than I can count and I can tell that you really "get it." Intonation aside, to me, this is a perfect performance. A man and his guitar- that's all that's needed. That, and exceptional talent! I'd love to hear you do something similar. I bet you'd be great at it!
Curious how Neil had the audience enthralled despite never opening his eyes and engaging them visually. I guess his message was was too painful to relate except to close his eyes and share his story despite the ache through his song. His hurt was palpable. His words poetic.
Great job Fil. This is a rather old video so you probably won't see this, but this is one of my favorite songs of all time. I do remember the year and exactly where I was and what I was doing. It was 1971 and I was thinking about my father. I really love how you get it.
My parents were big music fans, but their taste and experience was grounded in big band and classic country...They tolerated the "kids' rock and roll", but didn't think much of it. Neil Young was the first guy who made an impression on them. They heard songs like this, and said: "You know, this guy is pretty good"...Two years later, and even my mom was saying: "I like some of this David Bowie"...
I wish my parents had gotten it. Country & Western and religious music, though my father had a thing for Mario Lanza and a guy who was called The Mad Gypsy. My father died years ago, and my mother doesn't seem to listen to music at all anymore. Damned shame. All of their records are parked outside in a shed, waiting for me to get in good enough shape to haul them home. Hopefully, the good ones won't have been chewed up by rodents.
quite the opposite was true for me. my younger years were like a soundtrack to the late 60's early 70's, little did i realize how lucky i was at the time. I guess you could call it a benefit of dad being a hippie. I knew the words to neil young and bob Dylan songs before I even knew who neil and bob were.
The BBC recorded this when the songs were just released. Consider that it was 1971 and its crystal clear. The audience was so in tune with him you could hear a pin drop. This performance was magical. Thanks for the spot on analysis.
I miss audiences that knew how to behave. Stay in your fucking seat and STFU and listen. Today, everyone on their feet, phones head above their heads to record what's going on and idiots babbling away thinking the song just needs their input.
Neil is four years older than I am. When I listened to him back then, he just connected with me. I knew what he was saying because I felt the same way. We could both see life from the perspective of a 70 year old. That was such a special time for us to grow up in and the music was such an important part of our lives. When I see a video of Neil like this, I am transported back to when I was 20 with my long hair, and knowing how I would be 50 years later. I was right.
Neil young wow , Phil you hit the nail on the head my friend! Kids today at 16 to 26 are playing video games and stuck in there phones on you tube. But in the 70s kids 16 to 26 were shaping our future, expressing them self in artistically ways.
Exactly, we may need to revise the word 'needle' in Neil's lyrics "I've seen the needle and the damage done" to "cell phones" or "gaming", too much unproductive time.
I so appreciate you, as a young person, speaking so eloquently about music from the past! I was a young girl of about 14 when this song came out, and I love it still as an "old lady" of 65. Thank you for your insight and drawing attention to wonderful, heartfelt music.
I was only 15 yo in 1970 and already liked Neal Young. I have to say I think I got the message in the song even back then, although it did not deter me from a little rebelion. Also loved his time in CSNY. Another great export of true tallent from Canada.
Thanks again. Young is very underrated as a singer, even if he doesn't sing the scales perfectly. It doesn't mean he can't sing. It's the feeling on records before the cursed autotune. Just imho.
During the recording of Tears Are Not Enough”, producer David Foster tells Neil Young, “You were a little flat on “innocence”…. To which Neil replies, “That’s my style, man.”
When the Geffen label threatened to sue him because his album (Old Ways) was "uncharacteristic" of his style, "too Country," Neil said I'm gonna do three more like it, it'll become quite "characteristic."
ME Too, i ENJOY Hearing Phil ANALYZE these Artists, i Learn quite a few good things when he speaks. There are Other people who do Reaction videos who are BORING 'cause they really DON'T know much about Music so they just end up saying the SAME BORING stuff over and over Again, "i Really liked the Song, she/he has a good voice, blah, blah, blah, blah." 😬 👎 LOL. 😝 😂 Plus i ENJOY Phil's cute English Pronounciation 'cause i know people from England speak the Language more correct, whereas here in America, we Pronounce our English words a wee bit "Lazy". Right?? 😢 😢 LOL. 😝 😂 PEACE OUT And G'Night to You Phil and You Too, Andrew. 😴 😴 😴 😴
Ole Neil strumming that guitar so wonderfully you almost don’t have time to miss the banjo pickin. I was 9 when this was written. I always appreciated this & a few other songs by him. The last several years I’ve really found new admiration for his talents both solo & with CSN&Y. I chose Harvest Moon to be played at wife’s memorial service which is a loving tribute to a long time love.Fil please do a video on CSNY WOODSTOCK it has guitar in it that gives me goose bumps after all these years.
Been listening to Neil since the time of this video, and am 67 today and what you say is just what I've always felt and understood from his music and words. I just couldn't express it as clearly as you do. Bravo and keep on the good job!
Love the enthusiasm here for Neil's music and craft! Always nice to stumble across someone who "gets Neil". rare breeds, indeed, and kindred spirits. "Be great. Or be gone." ~David Briggs, Young's long time producer
I feel so blessed to grow up during the best music era ever. I was never a big fan of Neil Young back then but was a big fan of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young.., but can watch his stuff now and appreciate the music and his song writing. I absolutely love your point of view on music.
My favorite artist for so many years now. Thanks for giving him his due. It’s all about his story and his sound and his heart, it can be rough, but it is always right on the mark.
Fil, I've got to say, this may be my favorite analysis video of yours. Your comments are so insightful, and particularly your comments on younger people not really having the perspective to comprehend Neil's message and story within this song. I was 15 when I first heard this song that camp counselors were playing every day from the "Heart of Gold" album at a mountain climbing outdoor adventure camp in Montana. I was immediately drawn to all of the songs in the album, but particularly this "Old Man" song, even though I didn't posses the maturity and experience to fully understand it. Neil Young is certainly one of the most original and unique musical artists that I can think of. While "Old Man" is my favorite song, I would say "After the Gold Rush" is an extremely close second, but he has penned so many great and creative compositions. I was getting chills just watching the complete performance from the link you provided. Simply wonderful and amazing. Thanks!
YOU NAILED IT. I learned this on acoustic 25 years ago and always loved it but had trouble understanding why i was so moved. You made it so i can understand why i was so moved by this song and later this amazing performance! Your depth of analysis is remarkable and spot on!!! Thank you so so much. Great job!!! -Greg
Maybe Canada. I like Neil Young even back in early 70,s. I don't think his singing was great. Compare to the massive amount of singing at that time in history. A real great song writer
@@maddy7 Gordon's equal, but not nearly as well known, I think, was Stan Rogers. He died in the '80s, saving lives when the jet he was on caught fire while still on the ground. His music is unforgettable, once you've heard it. Canada has had a large number of great musicians, whether they've been heard outside of Canada or not. Bare Naked Ladies and Moxy Früvous, as I understand it, had their demo tapes go gold. Wish I could visit again, only been once.
Neil Young's poetic song writing and the emotion he put into it, was absolutely brilliant. "Oldman" and "Heart of Gold" were two that always comes to mind. I was in my junior year of high school when I first heard this song and very moved emotionally, by it.
Patrick Lee...Yep...Heart of Gold is one of my favorites of Neil's and I was having a hard time remembering the title I could only remember the word gold!... thanks for mentioning it...😁
@@loripond1839 , Heart of Gold is actually not one of Neil's favorite songs. Perhaps not the song itself, but the fact that it put him in the middle of the road commercially, and he ultimately wasn't too happy about that.
This was his best and most magical concert/album/performance ever. Incomparable; just a man, his guitar, and his harmonica making rock n role history on the spot. Pure Gold.
This is such a reminder of how young he was when he wrote this. We all had the albums Harvest and after the gold rush his voice just gets to you,hypnotic. We did get it listened to every word that is why it was a must have. We talked about life and the meaning of the universe into the early hours on a regular basis, it was a more cerebral time.
This BBC version is one of the best live versions of this song out there. I loved how Neil interacted with the audience prior to the start of the song in the original video.
A profound artist, my 80 year old gramps asked for this as his dedication on his birthday . That was 20 years ago.... thank-you fil, for paying homage to this guy and this song.
I never thought Neil was my favourite artist but one day when I was sorting my records, I realised I had bought twice as many Neil Young albums as any other band or artist. Harvest and After The Gold Rush were absolute classics of course -every track - but he has such a rich solo discography quite apart from his work with CSN&Y
Thanks, Fil! Now I've gotta get out my vinyl album "After the Goldrush." Thus was indeed that time in my life (now, too) where songwriters seemed the noblest profession around. Nothing more powerful than a song, in my book. Thanks for pointing out the dramatic dynamics and shifts in octave, driving the emotions home. And it is very true, that at 67 years old this song means a whole lot more than it did at 27!
@@wingsofpegasus It does! Late 70s DJ demos of 60s 70s hit the "cutout bins" $1.99. Replaced a lot of worn ones, put them on cassette to preserve records. Glad!
Spot on. I was born in 1961 and entering my teen years was the best music,IMO. But teens during the 1920 or 40s or 50s would say the same. I feel the late 60s & 70s was an amazing time to be a teenager. Music was everything and there was so much of it. If a song was good we heard it, even one hit wonders. The cream rose to the top. It wasn’t cookie cutter. I can listen to a new country song today for the first time and I know what the song is going to do or where its going to go, before it gets there. But I know a lot of young people that love classic 70s. And I’m hearing more and more covers. True Kings and Queen in music don’t sing like kings and queens, they sing like servants. Vocals don’t need to upstage a song, but bow to its meaning.
I am always posting him on my Facebook. I just don't want to put him out there as only analytical, or a cover artist, so I am constantly saying he has a CD of original songs.
Absolutely agree he's the total package and right at the top of the classic rock hierarchy with the other titans. His nature is so experimental, some things don't pan out, but that's part of journey of a music lifer who didn't die or become an oldies show. I find his voice just so relatable, for someone who people would say is a limited vocalist. You just feel like you're getting undiluted sincerity and emotion.
Hope 1 of these artists e-mails you with a "thanks". You`re a great artist yourself Fil. Played my sister`s "Harvest" album while sleep in basement seventh grade.
I Love Neil Young's Music ever since I was little and I'm 60 and a half and I always figured no one would get Neil Young,understand the music, tone, and vocals, But you did. Congrats. I've found people love him or hate him right off the bat because of his voice, which I loved right off the bat. His music makes you think and visualize, at least me it does. I'm glad you see. PROFOUND is RIGHT. HE foretold the FUTURE !!!!
Love your passion and appreciation for music in general! Neil Young is a true artist in every sense of the word and his discography would suprise a lot of people in it's diversity. He's always gone werever the music has taken him, rather than stick to a particular style. Great video Fil!
Thanks Phil, always a pleasure watching your reactions.And although I am more of a metal shred guy. I have been listening to and throughly enjoying Neil's music since I was a kid, so under rated.
Well done Fil.. this was to me your best analysis.. I'm 68 now, former musician (and Canadian like Neil) and I'm so glad you gave your respect to the age thing.. Thanks again. 🎸👍
Neil Young was so profoundly talented he did not have to try, it just exuded out of him - he always had a genius for conveying the innate sadness in life, describing the inner world.
Fil, I love that you have no ego problems with anyone you listen to. You really enjoy music, while being so knowledgeable at the same time. You help me understand and appreciate a song or group so much more! You are a great musician yourself, I love watching you sing and play! You need to do Neil Young’s Harvest Moon. He’s playing guitar, harmonica and singing all together. It’s my favorite Neil song!
Excellent analysis. I agree. I have always gravitated toward those artists who are able to express emotion through their instrument, voice, lyrics, and songwriting and not necessarily those with amazing technical ability.
Man the way he traverses through his chord progressions is so captivating, it tells the story all on its own. Then you add on his immaculate lyrics and it just does the trick. You’re absolutely right, there’s no way to shred it into a better song! Lol
Excellent reaction to this tune. I have always loved Neil's talents as a singer, songwriter and guitar player. This track tells a tale and does it almost in the form of "musical poetry". I love Neil's gritty voice and the emotion that he delivers on this song. I recall buying this record album when it came out but to be honest.... I like this live version more. It's a stripped down and beautiful performance.
I’ve heard people say Neil Young does not have a good voice. It blows me away. If I hear Neil Young sing one note, I know it’s him. And the guts to command a room like this with just you, your guitar, and your harmonica is astounding. If there is such a thing as perfect in music, despite any flaws we could try to point out technically, this performance is it. It entertains, it communicates, it transports the listener into the realm where emotion and imagination tell stories.
I think that Neil Young is an absolutely terrible singer. And yet he's one of my favourite singers to listen to. I can't reconcile the two. I don't even try any more. I just sit back and enjoy.
As a journeyman singer, I can hear him dial it back as he starts to belt to maintain the resonance. He never flinched, even though he is navigating what every singer experiences and what produces a lot of anxiety in most of us. This is a great performance of an original song. Another thing I love about Neil is that he never overstates himself instrumentally. He’s not trying to impress with his technical prowess, he has something to say and does it with great artistry.
He's an excellent singer and a great songwriter, much better (imo, of course) than the typical names that get tossed around. He does his own thing, within a wide emotional range. What's not to like?!
So well said... 👏👏👏
It's not bad more like unique
Almost 50 years later and now I'M the "old man". Brought tears to my eyes then and still does to this day. Music of this quality transcends generations.
Well said. Put ditto marks under this for me.
I feel it too my freind. Better days in so many ways.
August West I love my Pearlie Baker best more than my wine
@@hericbagley8286 more than my maker...
August West and a dime for a cup of coffee, the good old days
Neil is a genius. The vulnerability of an artist alone on the stage without “perfect pitch”, but with emotion is mesmerizing. Nothing like this today.
He still does it. Even Bob Dylan says "Neil is in a class by himself, so sincere, so emotional."
Neil Young is one of those artists whose voice isn't necessarily what everyone would agree is of great "quality"... and yet, it is so real, and so expressive, that it reaches a level of beauty that even some "perfect" voices could never achieve.
Yes. Much like Donald Fagen, Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix.
Some may say the same thing about his guitar playing but for me, it's so honest and raw it's incomparable to anyone else.
Bob in the West I love his voice.
But in fact, beyond the rawness (intentional) is pretty much flawless intonation. He lives in the songs, not in the outmoded concept of trying to be a perfect vocalist. Another kind of perfection. But...perfectly musical nonetheless. Same with his guitar playing. He just doesn’t play bad notes nor write parts that do not work.
@@christopherecatalano And his long guitar solos are interesting and coherent.
Neil was a few months into 25 during this performance. He wrote in my opinion his best album After the Gold Rush at ages 23-24. For him to write an album like that at such a young age is genius. He is a special artist.
1 of the top 3 songwriters of all time honesty.
For me, "Harvest" was his best album.
@@bendagostino2217 Was his first album with songs like Southern Man , Don't let it bring you down , After the Gold rush and more . Few months after the album was released had made enough money to buy his ranch , where he met the Old man . Forgot his name , but was already the ranch care taker and never left until he passed away .
Im sorry but I hate the idea that people think youth is simplicity/ sunshine. Neil Youngs profundity at that age is only natural for that caliber.
@@markriobr "After the Gold Rush" was his third album, released in 1970. I think he bought the ranch (Broken Arrow) in 1969 after the success of especially his second album, "Everybody knows this is nowhere".
"There is nothing lost between what Neil Young feels, what he plays, and what the audience experiences"
Still the best quote about Neil I've ever heard.
Yep... I'm one of those that took awhile to appreciate N. Young....I'm 59 now.
@@jerrymyers1798 You poor thing. I'm curious, just how many years *did* it take? I've always felt like I was late, I started really listening to rock music in the late '70s...which is when I started appreciating his music.
Brilliant way you describe it.
@@mariojorgecaeiro I wish I could remember who said it first. Some music magazine writer.
Neil was always the guy for me. His music will stay with me all the way to life's edge. Now 66, I'm that old man now.
it seems like Neil is not just singing this song, but it's like he's living it. There is a sincerity that comes out at the beginning and stays with the listener right to the end.
There's no way to be overly enthusiastic about this artist. I was that transfixed young person, now 70. Neil was & is the shining jewel, to me, of excellence.
I am so proud of my generation's music. Thank you, Fil, for giving Neil the respect he deserves. Such talent is rare.
I am as well. I really enjoy hearing Fil's take on "our music" very knowledgeable!
Piercing. I feel just the way I felt when I was 22 and living in Canada. His dad wrote for a newspaper in Toronto and he used to write about Neil sometimes. Beautiful. Thank you, Fil.
Neil played with his heart.. It doesn't get any better than that.
Could say he played it with a heart of gold 😂😂
How can someone who was 24 yrs old write a song so deep with insight and emotion about an old man in his 70's with over 50 years of experience and living in his young age. He is not only brilliant , he is an old soul.
This is a flawless performance. It just always knocks me over when he sings "doesn't mean that much to me to mean that much to you." What genius.
One man, one guitar, one song telling a story......pure genius!
Yes. Loved seeing him in concert where its just him an instrument, his voice & the words. emotional bliss
In today's world your positivity is refreshing. I enjoy your videos.
Thanks!
I agree.
Fil any negative comments about you are preposterous you do a great job where is George lynch on your fav list I saw you play in my dreams and it was nice 1986 solo of the year
@znogypogy yep
Neil Young did a song called The Needle And The Damage Done. That song had a profound effect on my life! It kept me from becoming a junkie!
'But every junkies like the setting sun' a great pay-off at the end of the tune. It was apparently for his great friend (and brilliant musician also) danny whitten who had just died from an overdose..imo all of the best music comes from some sort of tragedy..peace. : )
@@damotheman4196 Neil gives a little background before the song on the Massey Hall cd . no names but "some that everybody heard about" imo meaning Hendrix and Joplin. And "some that you didn't hear about" imo that's Danny Whitten and Bruce Berry. Massey Hall is a great CD for the music but also for the tidbits of background Neil gives for some if the songs.
My brother died from
Heroin od. He was 54
This is the best thing I ever heard anybody say about Neil Young. Thank you, Wendy. Glad you made it!
Thank God! I saw a junkie untying. That was enough for me. ✌️♥️
I was 11yrs, when i first heard this song. now at 61. I am reminiscing of what i was , and what i am today.
The fact that his voice isn’t perfect is well,.. Perfect!
so true, shovster
I love his voice.
I'm a photographer, and know nothing of the crafting of music, but this is fast becoming my favorite instructional channel.
Thanks Chris!
He's a natural teacher.
Art is art. You coax light waves. Musician coax sound waves.
Ah, the 1960s and ‘70s! Back then, You didn’t have to be pretty, or polished, or... y’know... showered, and You didn’t have to smell good, or be perfectly on pitch. You just had to sing Your heart out, and touch, move, inspire, evoke an experience. Life was urgent and lived directly. Art was enough; artists were enough. We were close to a breakthrough in what it is to Be Human. We almost made it. Then, the gravitational pull of the ordinary slammed us to the ground. Maybe Your generation will finish that project. Keep the faith, Dear Fil! ❤️
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Living for peace
Thank You. Let’s all live for Peace! ☮️
Samantha Thomas
Stated beautifully.
Tony Eckman
Thank You, Tony! Peace ✌️
That's awesome. You got it right.
Neil Young is in a class by himself. If you haven't watched him receive a Canadian award, watch it. He says "I KNOW I CAN'T SING" the audience cracks up. An amazing musician and poet. I love his music, always !
You dont have to be a great singer or guitar player. When your a gifted song writer who has the ability to touch people in a very personal way.
One of the greatest critiques I’ve seen on you tube. Neil is one of the very few that can absolutely captivate and control an audience with a guitar and a voice. Sublime
I would argue that he has perfect pitch. It's a musically and atmospherically perfect performance, as far as I'm concerned.
worked for Neil a lot in the 80s when he reunited with Crazy Horse..... my roadie days..... he still remembers my name when paths are crossed today...great person away from the music, knows a lot about cars to toy trains to making homemade beer and mixing concrete.
Cool!
Lol, why does this not surprise me?? Love Neil and his music. Love his enterprising spirit as he has aged!
Mr. Roach The concert movie 🎥 he made with Crazy 😜 Horse 🐴 is my favorite.
@@kittysawunude I can't stand those damn symbols either but there's no need to insult someone
Just like Bobby Baccala!
1971, I was 16 years old a Bass player and a big Neil Young fan...today I'm an old man, still a Neil Young fan and still playing bass...
Seen Neil in concert solo, with Crazy Horse, with Crosby, Stills and Nash, with The International Harvesters ,with The Blue Notes and The Shocking Pinks 19 times total with 3 generations of family. Never disappointed. Plays and sings with such passion in so many different types of music. And his lyrics are incredible. Tears, goosebumps and adrenaline rushes when going to his shows. Hope he can keep on Rockin in the Free World for a long time to come!!!
When I want it raw or real, I listen to Neil Young. He has never changed.
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Agreed. There were even a couple of good tunes on "Trans". I forgive him for that.
Neil was, is and always will be a beast. He is great at any age.
idiot, moron, he has turned into a hollywood liberal scumbag that stabs his country in the back
Spot on analysis. You are so right in that having a technically perfect/correct vocal, whether natural or produced doesn’t guarantee connecting a lyric and song to your audience. I was in high school in the 70s and Neil Young was one of our staples. Part of what I think makes his writing so powerful is you are not distracted by overproduction and vocal theatrics. I miss songs that actually tell a story. It seems a lot of our music today is lacking in that area.
Great review Fil. The entire Neil Young concert at the BBC is wonderful. Kudos to a public broadcaster that had the ears and foresight to record so many ARTISTS - and let them play real music. These are recorded treasures.
really shows how far the music industry has degenerated.
ms3bani hey, ....haven't you heard Taylor Swift emote on her acoustic guitar ?? Lol 😪
Amen
Agreed. This stuff was coming out brand new on commercial radio. Nothing like this anymore. Sure great music is still being produced, but no one really gets to hear it.
When the mind is preoccupied, the brain remains dormant...as Phil is saying about kids once being innovators of music, today they are prisoners to electronics.
@503 Workshop lol, I see you failed basic English. Learn to comprehend. Point made.
I will never get tired of listening to this song, especially this live performance.
Only thing I miss in this version is the steel guitar and I'm not a country fan, but in a folk song it's really beautiful.
His Massey hall concert from 1971 which I believe this is shot from is on ITunes and is a masterpiece.
Neil Young...one of a hand full of guys who could take a one note guitar solo and make it a legendary masterpiece (Cinnamon Girl)
speck drop D
I called my' Windies' island wife ''Cinnamon''.
Robin Trower does that in "Daydream" AKA "Spellbound". SRC does it in "Eye Of The Storm" too. Of course
there's nothing wrong with doing that with a thousand notes like the Hellecasters or Dixie Dregs, either.
‘Sir Fil’, What I also love is that, with his eyes closed, Neil leaves this plane and goes somewhere we cannot follow. Yet, we reap the benefits with what he SHARES with us. God bless, Marianne aka Celtic Gal ❤ 5:34
Old Man, Helpless, Heart Of Gold and After The Gold Rush so many moving soulful songs from Neil I new back in the day they'd be timeless. I still love them today, Late 60's early 70's I was a teenager, we were spoiled, we had a freedom that may never be experienced by future generations. I just wonder were their spiritual inspiration will be coming from. Great work.
Neil has always been a soulful writer and performer. I love this video & your analysis, you give everything a human edge. Thank you!
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@Dr. Hannibal Lester it's kind of like jimmy page & his guitar work. there r guitarists that r technically superior & will play circles around him, especially when he plays sloppily. but his creativity & ingenuity r what make me such a fan of his music, as w/neil young.
Today's performance coaches tell the artist to open their eyes for the audience...to me, a performance is more powerful with their eyes closed or whatever is natural to the artist...Neil always touched me with that haunting voice and inward performance.
Our country, Canada, produced incredible talent in the sixties and seventies. Neil could inexplicably create wonder-worlds fully formed. Expecting to Fly also comes to mind. Thanks for seeing the whole forest.
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Love the analysis Fil. You are absolutely right about Neil Young. He is one of the greats!!
No one could do a better job than this review of Neil Young. He was brilliant and wise beyond his years as you suggest. You have those qualities too! Thanks for this salute to a man time will not forget.
I'm an old woman and I'm crying too. Looking back on all the great memories. The way the whole world has changed is mind blowing. We had such hope for change back in yhe day. The music was magic. Neil's lyrics so profound.
You’re right, it’s all about heart with Neil Young. Just badass!
Neil Young is an absolute genius and you're right about remembrances. I was 21 years old when Harvest came out in 1972 and was emotionally floored by the album and by this song in particular. This live BBC recording was made in 1971 and before the album was released. Like you said in your review the audience has no idea of the impact the song will have and the legendary caliber of the performer and performance. I'll be 68 in April and this performance still hits me emotionally and even more profoundly now that I'm in the downhill slide. By the way Fil I think this is one of your most poignant reviews yet.
I agree
Thanks Ray ☺
Yes.
Pity BBC has gone the way it has-back then they would show lots of concerts-Mike Oldfield doing Tubular Bells in their studios is another one to watch & you had OId Grey Whistle Test, now the only thing approaching a half decent music show like that on television is Jools Holland-but it has zero atmosphere.
Awe'Some'Ness
Neil Young..🎶💞
Legend In His Time
Hi, Fil, your analysis on Neil Young was spot on! His strong lyrics told a story, about how we were back then,us ol' Rockers, listening to those lyrics now, appreciate how meaningful they are because for the first time in years, i really listened to this video, and really got the true meaning of this song and it's message..... You really know your "Stuff" Rock!
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One of the very few perfect songs ever written and a perfect live performance to boot.
WOW ! Fil, your analysis of Neil Young was amazing! I must say that was extremely enjoyable to watch. Neil Young, truly a SUPERSTAR!
Hey Fil. Another great analysis video. I was surprised when Neil went upb1 octave. Didn't know he has that much range. My other favorites of Neil's are Southern Man and Helpless. Keep up the great work Fil. Rock!
You're wise beyond your years, Fil! I have watched this exact video for more times than I can count and I can tell that you really "get it." Intonation aside, to me, this is a perfect performance. A man and his guitar- that's all that's needed. That, and exceptional talent! I'd love to hear you do something similar. I bet you'd be great at it!
Thanks Laurie!
Always said a great song is one that holds its own in a single act (well done of course)
Couldn't agree more!
Curious how Neil had the audience enthralled despite never opening his eyes and engaging them visually. I guess his message was was too painful to relate except to close his eyes and share his story despite the ache through his song. His hurt was palpable. His words poetic.
Such a beautiful song. I love his music. He has such a unique voice and hes a great story teller.
Great job Fil. This is a rather old video so you probably won't see this, but this is one of my favorite songs of all time. I do remember the year and exactly where I was and what I was doing. It was 1971 and I was thinking about my father. I really love how you get it.
My parents were big music fans, but their taste and experience was grounded in big band and classic country...They tolerated the "kids' rock and roll", but didn't think much of it. Neil Young was the first guy who made an impression on them. They heard songs like this, and said: "You know, this guy is pretty good"...Two years later, and even my mom was saying: "I like some of this David Bowie"...
Haha cool!
I wish my parents had gotten it. Country & Western and religious music, though my father had a thing for Mario Lanza and a guy who was called The Mad Gypsy. My father died years ago, and my mother doesn't seem to listen to music at all anymore. Damned shame. All of their records are parked outside in a shed, waiting for me to get in good enough shape to haul them home. Hopefully, the good ones won't have been chewed up by rodents.
quite the opposite was true for me. my younger years were like a soundtrack to the late 60's early 70's, little did i realize how lucky i was at the time. I guess you could call it a benefit of dad being a hippie. I knew the words to neil young and bob Dylan songs before I even knew who neil and bob were.
The BBC recorded this when the songs were just released. Consider that it was 1971 and its crystal clear. The audience was so in tune with him you could hear a pin drop. This performance was magical. Thanks for the spot on analysis.
I miss audiences that knew how to behave. Stay in your fucking seat and STFU and listen.
Today, everyone on their feet, phones head above their heads to record what's going on and idiots babbling away thinking the song just needs their input.
Neil is four years older than I am. When I listened to him back then, he just connected with me. I knew what he was saying because I felt the same way. We could both see life from the perspective of a 70 year old. That was such a special time for us to grow up in and the music was such an important part of our lives. When I see a video of Neil like this, I am transported back to when I was 20 with my long hair, and knowing how I would be 50 years later. I was right.
It takes an old soul to write something so devastatingly profound at such a young age.
No. You just need good perception.
Yes, I was so much older the, I’m younger tan that now
Indeed!!
Just like Paul Williams back in the day. How could he be so young yet so wise?
Paraphrasing the Beatles I believe.@@catebannan7343
Neil young wow , Phil you hit the nail on the head my friend!
Kids today at 16 to 26 are playing video games and stuck in there phones on you tube.
But in the 70s kids 16 to 26 were shaping our future, expressing them self in artistically ways.
Exactly, we may need to revise the word 'needle' in Neil's lyrics "I've seen the needle and the damage done" to "cell phones" or "gaming", too much unproductive time.
I so appreciate you, as a young person, speaking so eloquently about music from the past! I was a young girl of about 14 when this song came out, and I love it still as an "old lady" of 65. Thank you for your insight and drawing attention to wonderful, heartfelt music.
I was only 15 yo in 1970 and already liked Neal Young. I have to say I think I got the message in the song even back then, although it did not deter me from a little rebelion. Also loved his time in CSNY. Another great export of true tallent from Canada.
Thanks again. Young is very underrated as a singer, even if he doesn't sing the scales perfectly. It doesn't mean he can't sing. It's the feeling on records before the cursed autotune. Just imho.
I fell in love with him as a 20 year old. I love the poets like him and Dylan, Morrison, Simon, etc., etc ...
During the recording of Tears Are Not Enough”, producer David Foster tells Neil Young, “You were a little flat on “innocence”…. To which Neil replies, “That’s my style, man.”
Few tell Foster to f-off and survive! lol
Peter Foster has produced people in the industry who have gone onto some astounding success. I’d listen to him
When the Geffen label threatened to sue him because his album (Old Ways) was "uncharacteristic" of his style, "too Country," Neil said I'm gonna do three more like it, it'll become quite "characteristic."
Legacy Maiden Neil Young always did things his way. No BS from anyone.
I remember that documentary. Best moment out of the whole thing. 😂
Phil I enjoy your videos so much, you have such wonderful insight into what makes music work.
ME Too, i ENJOY Hearing Phil ANALYZE these Artists, i Learn quite a few good things when he speaks. There are Other people who do Reaction videos who are BORING 'cause they really DON'T know much about Music so they just end up saying the SAME BORING stuff over and over Again, "i Really liked the Song, she/he has a good voice, blah, blah, blah, blah." 😬 👎 LOL. 😝 😂
Plus i ENJOY Phil's cute English Pronounciation 'cause i know people from England speak the Language more correct, whereas here in America, we Pronounce our English words a wee bit "Lazy".
Right?? 😢 😢 LOL. 😝 😂
PEACE OUT And G'Night to You Phil and You Too, Andrew.
😴 😴 😴 😴
I agree, Andrew. I learn o much from Fil.
Neil Young is so great, so timeless. Some of the awesome music I grew up listening to.
cool people from L.F.
Ole Neil strumming that guitar so wonderfully you almost don’t have time to miss the banjo pickin. I was 9 when this was written. I always appreciated this & a few other songs by him. The last several years I’ve really found new admiration for his talents both solo & with CSN&Y. I chose Harvest Moon to be played at wife’s memorial service which is a loving tribute to a long time love.Fil please do a video on CSNY WOODSTOCK it has guitar in it that gives me goose bumps after all these years.
Neil Young’s songs have always made me think and look inward. I’m a Boomer and you’re analysis of this video is so on point. Thanks, for doing this.
Been listening to Neil since the time of this video, and am 67 today and what you say is just what I've always felt and understood from his music and words. I just couldn't express it as clearly as you do. Bravo and keep on the good job!
Love the enthusiasm here for Neil's music and craft! Always nice to stumble across someone who "gets Neil". rare breeds, indeed, and kindred spirits.
"Be great. Or be gone."
~David Briggs, Young's long time producer
I feel so blessed to grow up during the best music era ever. I was never a big fan of Neil Young back then but was a big fan of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young.., but can watch his stuff now and appreciate the music and his song writing. I absolutely love your point of view on music.
My favorite artist for so many years now. Thanks for giving him his due. It’s all about his story and his sound and his heart, it can be rough, but it is always right on the mark.
Fil, I've got to say, this may be my favorite analysis video of yours. Your comments are so insightful, and particularly your comments on younger people not really having the perspective to comprehend Neil's message and story within this song. I was 15 when I first heard this song that camp counselors were playing every day from the "Heart of Gold" album at a mountain climbing outdoor adventure camp in Montana. I was immediately drawn to all of the songs in the album, but particularly this "Old Man" song, even though I didn't posses the maturity and experience to fully understand it. Neil Young is certainly one of the most original and unique musical artists that I can think of. While "Old Man" is my favorite song, I would say "After the Gold Rush" is an extremely close second, but he has penned so many great and creative compositions. I was getting chills just watching the complete performance from the link you provided. Simply wonderful and amazing. Thanks!
YOU NAILED IT. I learned this on acoustic 25 years ago and always loved it but had trouble understanding why i was so moved. You made it so i can understand why i was so moved by this song and later this amazing performance! Your depth of analysis is remarkable and spot on!!! Thank you so so much. Great job!!! -Greg
I think of Neil Young and Joni Mitchel as the king and queen of Canada.
I'd like to add Gordon Lightfoot to your list.
Our great neighbors to the North..Neil, Joni, Gordon.....this American loves them all, fabulous artists.....thank you Canada!!!
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Maybe Canada. I like Neil Young even back in early 70,s. I don't think his singing was great. Compare to the massive amount of singing at that time in history. A real great song writer
@@maddy7 Gordon's equal, but not nearly as well known, I think, was Stan Rogers. He died in the '80s, saving lives when the jet he was on caught fire while still on the ground. His music is unforgettable, once you've heard it. Canada has had a large number of great musicians, whether they've been heard outside of Canada or not. Bare Naked Ladies and Moxy Früvous, as I understand it, had their demo tapes go gold.
Wish I could visit again, only been once.
Don’t forget the Guess Who’s Burton Cummings!
Neil Young's poetic song writing and the emotion he put into it, was absolutely brilliant. "Oldman" and "Heart of Gold" were two that always comes to mind. I was in my junior year of high school when I first heard this song and very moved emotionally, by it.
Cool!
Patrick Lee...Yep...Heart of Gold is one of my favorites of Neil's and I was having a hard time remembering the title I could only remember the word gold!... thanks for mentioning it...😁
@@loripond1839 You're welcome. Spent many hours in my car listening to the great music of that golden era.
Cortez the killer and my my hey hey have always been favourites of mine.
@@loripond1839 , Heart of Gold is actually not one of Neil's favorite songs. Perhaps not the song itself, but the fact that it put him in the middle of the road commercially, and he ultimately wasn't too happy about that.
This was his best and most magical concert/album/performance ever. Incomparable; just a man, his guitar, and his harmonica making rock n role history on the spot. Pure Gold.
This is such a reminder of how young he was when he wrote this. We all had the albums Harvest and after the gold rush his voice just gets to you,hypnotic. We did get it listened to every word that is why it was a must have. We talked about life and the meaning of the universe into the early hours on a regular basis, it was a more cerebral time.
This performance is every bit as special as you say it is. Moved to tears listening again and agreeing wholeheartedly with your words.
Excellent breakdown Fil... You have more talent than you think brother ✊🏼
Haha thanks!
I think most of us who were paying attention got his depth, and many other singer songwriters of the day. Something that barely exists today,sadly
depth of feeling and knowledge has to be nurtured. Whatever is nurtured will grow. Now we nurture awfulness and vileness.
True
This BBC version is one of the best live versions of this song out there. I loved how Neil interacted with the audience prior to the start of the song in the original video.
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definately
Brilliant performance. Voice is great! Lyrics are heartfelt.
A profound artist, my 80 year old gramps asked for this as his dedication on his birthday . That was 20 years ago.... thank-you fil, for paying homage to this guy and this song.
I never thought Neil was my favourite artist but one day when I was sorting my records, I realised I had bought twice as many Neil Young albums as any other band or artist. Harvest and After The Gold Rush were absolute classics of course -every track - but he has such a rich solo discography quite apart from his work with CSN&Y
Thanks, Fil! Now I've gotta get out my vinyl album "After the Goldrush." Thus was indeed that time in my life (now, too) where songwriters seemed the noblest profession around. Nothing more powerful than a song, in my book. Thanks for pointing out the dramatic dynamics and shifts in octave, driving the emotions home. And it is very true, that at 67 years old this song means a whole lot more than it did at 27!
I bet that vinyl sounds great!
@@wingsofpegasus It does! Late 70s DJ demos of 60s 70s hit the "cutout bins" $1.99. Replaced a lot of worn ones, put them on cassette to preserve records. Glad!
Spot on. I was born in 1961 and entering my teen years was the best music,IMO. But teens during the 1920 or 40s or 50s would say the same. I feel the late 60s & 70s was an amazing time to be a teenager. Music was everything and there was so much of it. If a song was good we heard it, even one hit wonders. The cream rose to the top. It wasn’t cookie cutter. I can listen to a new country song today for the first time and I know what the song is going to do or where its going to go, before it gets there. But I know a lot of young people that love classic 70s. And I’m hearing more and more covers. True Kings and Queen in music don’t sing like kings and queens, they sing like servants. Vocals don’t need to upstage a song, but bow to its meaning.
I've been on a Wings of Pegasus bender today... I love seeing music thru your eyes, Fil. You are a kind, thoughtful, old soul :D
Thanks!
When this song came out I listened to it with my father. "Son your just like I was at your age" is what he told me, and said to remember this song.
I say - let’s all start getting Fils name out there! Post it on Facebook! The man is genius
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I am always posting him on my Facebook. I just don't want to put him out there as only analytical, or a cover artist, so I am constantly saying he has a CD of original songs.
I 2nd that opinion
Neil is a genius. I’ve listened to him for years and he always moves me in ways few artists can. Thank you, Neil for the absolute joy of your music.
I could listen to you analyze music all day
Haha thanks!
I could just look at him all day.
Perfect analysis of the great man. Absolutely love this live performance.
Absolutely agree he's the total package and right at the top of the classic rock hierarchy with the other titans. His nature is so experimental, some things don't pan out, but that's part of journey of a music lifer who didn't die or become an oldies show.
I find his voice just so relatable, for someone who people would say is a limited vocalist. You just feel like you're getting undiluted sincerity and emotion.
Hope 1 of these artists e-mails you with a "thanks". You`re a great artist yourself Fil.
Played my sister`s "Harvest" album while sleep in basement seventh grade.
Thanks! I've had a fee emails from some of the artists I've looked at which is cool!
I Love Neil Young's Music ever since I was little and I'm 60 and a half and I always figured no one would get Neil Young,understand the music, tone, and vocals, But you did. Congrats. I've found people love him or hate him right off the bat because of his voice, which I loved right off the bat. His music makes you think and visualize, at least me it does. I'm glad you see. PROFOUND is RIGHT. HE foretold the FUTURE !!!!
Love your passion and appreciation for music in general! Neil Young is a true artist in every sense of the word and his discography would suprise a lot of people in it's diversity. He's always gone werever the music has taken him, rather than stick to a particular style. Great video Fil!
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Thanks Phil, always a pleasure watching your reactions.And although I am more of a metal shred guy. I have been listening to and throughly enjoying Neil's music since I was a kid, so under rated.
Well done Fil.. this was to me your best analysis.. I'm 68 now, former musician (and Canadian like Neil) and I'm so glad you gave your respect to the age thing..
Thanks again. 🎸👍
Neil Young was so profoundly talented he did not have to try, it just exuded out of him - he always had a genius for conveying the innate sadness in life, describing the inner world.
Fil, I love that you have no ego problems with anyone you listen to. You really enjoy music, while being so knowledgeable at the same time. You help me understand and appreciate a song or group so much more! You are a great musician yourself, I love watching you sing and play! You need to do Neil Young’s Harvest Moon. He’s playing guitar, harmonica and singing all together. It’s my favorite Neil song!
Thanks!
Excellent analysis. I agree. I have always gravitated toward those artists who are able to express emotion through their instrument, voice, lyrics, and songwriting and not necessarily those with amazing technical ability.
Man the way he traverses through his chord progressions is so captivating, it tells the story all on its own. Then you add on his immaculate lyrics and it just does the trick. You’re absolutely right, there’s no way to shred it into a better song! Lol
Excellent reaction to this tune. I have always loved Neil's talents as a singer, songwriter and guitar player. This track tells a tale and does it almost in the form of "musical poetry". I love Neil's gritty voice and the emotion that he delivers on this song. I recall buying this record album when it came out but to be honest.... I like this live version more. It's a stripped down and beautiful performance.