|
By: Justin Haley
November 2007
Neil Young has always been a man of many words. Most famous as a musician, over the past 41 years of his career he has also been a screenwriter, film producer, director and songwriter. Determined to present his art with a refined voice and narrative, the musical legend exudes passion and complexity. It is his unwavering focus and fervour that has led to Young's incredible longevity in the industry. His current album, Chrome Dreams II, debuted last month to much acclaim and recognition.
Young is undeniably one of the greatest singer songwriters this country has ever produced. His endless list of accomplishments include, most notably, inductions into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Canada's Walk of Fame. He emerged around the time of another Canadian activist-artist, Joni Mitchell, in a time when musicians saw their medium as an opportunity to explore more than just beautiful riffs and electric guitar solos. Like Mitchell, Young has always felt music should do more than just entertain; it has the capacity to influence, affect, and educate. Musically, his love for Canada emerges in Young's eclectic mix of folk and rock. Meanwhile, his lyrical prose focuses on politics and individual responsibility, bettering the country and world, and igniting one’s own active involvement within society. His patriotism towards Canada is as strong as our love for him: labeling himself as a true Canadian at heart, he even refuses to become a U.S. citizen after years of residing there part-time.
Never afraid to take on U.S. imperialism, in 2006 Young released the album Living with War to positive reviews and his song "Let's Impeach the President" created heated political debate. Lyrics like, "Let's impeach the president for hijacking our religion and using it to get elected/Dividing our country into colors/And still leaving black people neglected" had citizens cheering Young's courage and determination to truly speak his mind. His humanitarianism extends beyond North America and he has committed his time and energy to Live 8, as well as co-founding the benefit concerts Farm Aid and the Bridge School Benefit. Young is a master of encouraging his listeners to be more socially aware.
As a result of his stance on world affairs, Young often meets strong reaction of adoration or revulsion. However, his ability to sell out three intimate evenings at Toronto's Massey Hall and six at United Palace Theatre in downtown Manhattan (in a matter of minutes) easily silences any hater. Known for his raw and authentic performance style, Young thrives on personally engaging with his audience throughout each individual show. From asking questions on war to the ever-changing effects of global climate change to a recent film, the musician takes the time to enjoy and appreciate his audience every evening. Expect to experience a rigorously captivating conversation this month when Neil Young steps back onto small stages across the continent.
Links:
http://www.neilyoung.com
Shop On-line:
Purchase the latest from Neil Young
       
|
