What is the best Neil Young album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Hawks & Doves" (1980). It's the most representative of what makes Neil Young worth hearing.

What are the best Neil Young albums?

The essential Neil Young albums include "Oceanside Countryside", "Neil Young" (1968), "After the Gold Rush" (1970), "Journey Through the Past" (1972) and "Harvest" (1972).

How many albums does Neil Young have?

Neil Young has 177 releases in their discography, including 84 albums and 6 EPs.

Photo: Tore Sætre · CC BY-SA 4.0

Neil Young

Q: Who is Neil Young for?

If you're into alternative rock and blues, Neil Young is worth your time. His music pulses with a gritty urgency, driven by raw guitar riffs and an unwavering rhythm that evokes both tension and release.

His music pulses with a gritty urgency, driven by raw guitar riffs and an unwavering rhythm that evokes both tension and release.

alternative rock · blues · folk rock · hard rock

United States

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Start here

The album

Harvest (1972)

Presents a blend of folk and rock, showcasing Neil Young's signature style and lyrical storytelling in a cohesive and accessible format.

The song

“Heart of Gold”

A widely recognized track that highlights Young's melodic sensibility and introspective lyrics, making it an engaging introduction to his music.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"My Heart" — from Sleeps with Angels (1994)

accessible entry with immediate hook
2

"Ten Men Workin’" — from This Note's for You (1988)

establishes the sonic palette early
3

"Mr. Soul" — from Noise & Flowers (2022)

establishes the sonic palette early
4

"Country Home" — from Way Down in the Rust Bucket (2021)

establishes the sonic palette early
5

"Song of the Seasons" — from Barn (2021)

establishes the sonic palette early
6

"Love Earth" — from World Record (2022)

establishes the sonic palette early

About Neil Young

Neil Young's significance lies in his ability to channel the rawness of personal experience into music that resonates deeply with both individual listeners and broader cultural movements.

His work has influenced generations, shaping attitudes towards authenticity in songwriting and the role of the artist as a social commentator.

His work has influenced generations, shaping attitudes towards authenticity in songwriting and the role of the artist as a social commentator. Young's exploration of themes like disillusionment, love, and environmentalism has made him a vital voice in multiple contexts, from the counterculture of the '60s to contemporary discussions about activism. Young approaches songwriting with a blend of spontaneity and introspection, often crafting songs that feel like intimate conversations rather than polished productions. This immediacy allows his music to capture fleeting emotions and experiences, creating an atmosphere that feels both personal and communal. His electric performances juxtapose quiet vulnerability with explosive intensity, reflecting the turbulence of his lyrical content. Lyrically, Young often navigates the intersection of personal and political, frequently addressing existential questions and societal critiques through a straightforward yet evocative storytelling style. This approach balances sincerity with a hint of irony, inviting listeners to reflect on their own lives while engaging with larger issues.

84 studio albums· 177 total releases· 6 decades· United States