Neil Young's Musical Journey: Behind the Scenes with His Favorites
Over the decades, Neil Young has worked with numerous talented musicians, each contributing to his rich and varied musical library. Among these, perhaps the most iconic and influential bands have been Crazy Horse and Buffalo Springfield. Let's delve into the relationship Neil has with these bands and others that he has graced with his guitar and voice.
From Ridgewater to Los Angeles: The Early Days
Neil Young's journey in music began with his early band, the Buffalo Springfield, in the 1960s. This band later became one of the most celebrated groups of its time, known for hits like 'For What It's Worth.' However, in 2010, Young stated, 'I can take a lot of credit for Buffalo Springfield, but I wouldn't want to own it.' This sentiment not only illustrates Young's humility but also his unique approach to music.
The Electric Connection: Crazy Horse
When it comes to his continuing career, Crazy Horse remains a constant. Neil Young has described Crazy Horse as a 'musical dream team' and 'the greatest band I've ever been in.' The band comprises musicians Dennis Flancbaum, Silverchair’s Ben Gillies, and Ben Keith. One standout moment occurred with the album 'Now That Everything's Everything.' Young said, 'I always look at that album and the fact that that band was playing for free because a roadie had lost his job. So, they gave it back to him and I wanted to honor that and do something with them, and we came up with that stuff on that record.' This statement gives an insight into Young's deeply personal and sometimes charitable nature.
CSNY: The Forgotten Express
Another significant band that has been a part of Neil Young's legacy is Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young (CSNY). Although he has played with many great musicians, including Neil Diamond, David Crosby, and Stephen Stills, many fans and critics alike often overlook CSNY's contributions. Young’s relationship with this band has been marked by both success and personal challenges. Stills, in an interview, mentioned his indecision in joining up with Young, stating, 'I wanted to try and run away from my responsibilities. I wasn’t sure if Neil would want me, and I knew what Neil might be thinking about me.' Despite these challenges, CSNY produced some memorable albums, such as 'Déjà vu' and ''.
The Role of Live Performances
Neil Young places a high value on live performances. In fact, his relationship with his backing bands often improves and strengthens as they tour together. This is evident even today, where Crazy Horse continues to play to packed arenas. It’s a clear testament to the behind-the-scenes relationships that make Young’s music so captivating and powerful.
Conclusion
While Neil Young has played numerous influential roles with various bands, his enduring relationship with Crazy Horse is perhaps the most significant. His quotes and actions continue to inspire and motivate not only his fans but also other musicians. From his early days with Buffalo Springfield to his current collaborations with Crazy Horse, Neil Young's journey is one of continuous evolution and musical exploration.