11 Underrated Neil Young Songs: Neil’s Rare Treasures

Hey everyone, TBone here from Level Tunes! As a DJ and a lifelong music aficionado, I’ve spent countless hours exploring the depths of legendary artists’ discographies.

Today, I’m excited to share something special with all you DJs and music lovers out there: a list of 11 underrated Neil Young songs. Neil Young, with his raw emotion and distinctive sound, has always been a huge influence on me, both behind the decks and in my everyday life.

But beyond his well-known hits, there’s a treasure trove of lesser-known tracks that deserve more spotlight. So, why am I writing this list? It’s simple: to share these hidden gems with you.

These songs showcase Neil’s versatility and profound lyrical genius, offering a fresh perspective on his artistry. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, I’m sure you’ll find something in these tracks that resonates with you. Let’s dive in and explore the uncharted territories of Neil Young’s music together!

Here are the underrated Neil Young songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Neil Young Songs

Underrated Neil Young songs in a list format:

1. “Vampire Blues” – On the Beach (1974, Reprise Records)

“Vampire Blues,” from Neil Young’s 1974 album “On the Beach,” is a raw, bluesy number with a twist. It’s a satirical take on the oil crisis of the 1970s, showcasing Young’s ability to blend social commentary with his music. The song’s slow, deliberate rhythm mirrors the serious message about consumerism and environmental neglect. I chose this track for its bold message delivered through a classic blues structure, something that’s quite different from Young’s more mainstream work. It’s a testament to his versatility as an artist and his willingness to address pressing issues through his music.

2. “Albuquerque” – Tonight’s the Night (1975, Reprise Records)

“Albuquerque” is a standout track from the 1975 album “Tonight’s the Night.” This song is a raw, emotional journey, reflecting the album’s overall theme of loss and despair following the death of Young’s friends and roadie. It’s a hauntingly beautiful song that captures a sense of longing and escapism, with Young’s distinctive voice set against a sparse, gritty backdrop. The reason I included “Albuquerque” is its ability to convey deep emotion in a simple yet powerful way, making it a hidden gem in Young’s discography.

3. “Motion Pictures” – On the Beach (1974, Reprise Records)

Another gem from “On the Beach,” “Motion Pictures” is a deeply personal song reflecting Young’s relationship with actress Carrie Snodgress. Its acoustic arrangement and introspective lyrics offer a glimpse into Young’s life at the time. The song’s simplicity and vulnerability are what make it stand out. I selected “Motion Pictures” for its intimate portrayal of love and heartache, showcasing Young’s ability to convey profound emotions in his music.

4. “Ambulance Blues” – On the Beach (1974, Reprise Records)

“Ambulance Blues” closes out the “On the Beach” album with a raw, unfiltered expression of disillusionment. This nearly nine-minute track is a journey through various stages of Young’s life, touching on personal struggles and broader societal issues. The song’s folk-inspired melody and harmonica accompaniment create a sense of nostalgia and reflection. “Ambulance Blues” is on this list for its storytelling prowess and its representation of Young’s folk roots, making it a must-listen for any fan.

5. “On the Beach” – On the Beach (1974, Reprise Records)

The title track of the album, “On the Beach,” is a melancholic reflection on fame and isolation. It’s a slower, more contemplative piece that contrasts sharply with the more upbeat tracks in Young’s repertoire. The song’s minimalist arrangement allows the lyrics to take center stage, highlighting Young’s songwriting skills. I included “On the Beach” for its introspective quality and its ability to resonate with anyone who’s ever felt alone in a crowd.

6. “Soldier” – Journey Through the Past (1972, Reprise Records)

“Soldier” is a hauntingly beautiful track from the soundtrack album “Journey Through the Past.” This piano-driven song is a poignant reflection on the impact of war, showcasing Young’s ability to tackle heavy themes with grace and empathy. The song’s stark, simple arrangement makes its message all the more powerful. “Soldier” was chosen for its emotional depth and its relevance in any era, demonstrating Young’s timeless appeal.

7. “Pardon My Heart” – Zuma (1975, Reprise Records)

From the 1975 album “Zuma,” “Pardon My Heart” is a soft, introspective track that showcases Young’s gentler side. It’s a song about vulnerability and the complexities of relationships, delivered with a sincerity that’s both touching and relatable. The acoustic guitar and harmonies add to the song’s intimate feel.

“Pardon My Heart” made this list for its honest and heartfelt lyrics, which are a testament to Young’s ability as a songwriter to capture the nuances of human emotion.

8. “Revolution Blues” – On the Beach (1974, Reprise Records)

“Revolution Blues” from “On the Beach” is a unique song in Young’s catalog. It’s a gritty, somewhat unsettling track that delves into the mindset of a revolutionary. The song is inspired by the dark side of the 1960s counterculture, and its raw energy and edgy lyrics set it apart from many of Young’s other songs. I picked “Revolution Blues” for its bold storytelling and its reflection of a tumultuous time in history, showcasing Young’s ability to capture the zeitgeist in his music.

9. “Through My Sails” – Zuma (1975, Reprise Records)

“Through My Sails,” featured on the album “Zuma,” is a serene and beautiful song. It’s notable for the collaboration with members of Crosby, Stills & Nash, adding harmonious vocals that create a peaceful, almost ethereal atmosphere. This track stands out for its calm, soothing melody and its sense of hopefulness, a contrast to many of the darker themes in Young’s work. “Through My Sails” is on the list for its tranquil vibe and the perfect harmony of voices, offering a different flavor in Neil Young’s diverse musical journey.

10. “Will to Love” – American Stars ‘n Bars (1977, Reprise Records)

“Will to Love” is a unique song in Neil Young’s discography, found on the album “American Stars ‘n Bars.” It’s a long, meandering track that feels like a stream of consciousness set to music. The song’s lo-fi quality, recorded by Young alone by a fireplace, adds to its intimate and introspective nature. I chose “Will to Love” for its experimental nature and the raw emotion that Young conveys, showcasing his willingness to push the boundaries of conventional songwriting.

11. “Barstool Blues” – Zuma (1975, Reprise Records)

Last but not least, “Barstool Blues” from the album “Zuma” is a classic Neil Young rock song with a twist. Its catchy guitar riffs and straightforward rock rhythm are quintessentially Young, but the lyrics offer a deeper look into the complexities of human relationships and self-reflection. This song is a great example of Young’s ability to blend rock and roll with thoughtful, introspective lyrics. I included “Barstool Blues” for its perfect balance of energetic music and meaningful storytelling, making it a standout track in Young’s catalog.

Fun Facts: Underrated Neil Young Songs

“Vampire Blues” – On the Beach

• Recording Location Uniqueness: The album “On the Beach” was recorded in a studio that Neil Young had set up in his home, which contributed to the raw and intimate sound of the tracks, including “Vampire Blues.”
• Environmental Advocacy: This song reflects Neil Young’s long-standing commitment to environmental issues, a theme that has permeated much of his work over the decades.

“Albuquerque” – Tonight’s the Night

• Emotional Context: “Tonight’s the Night,” the album on which “Albuquerque” appears, was recorded in the wake of the heroin overdose deaths of both Crazy Horse guitarist Danny Whitten and roadie Bruce Berry. This tragic context adds a layer of emotional depth to the song.
• Unique Instrumentation: The track features a somewhat unusual instrumentation for a Neil Young song, including a prominent pedal steel guitar, which adds to its haunting quality.

“Motion Pictures” – On the Beach

• Personal Life Reflection: The song is a direct reflection of Neil Young’s relationship with actress Carrie Snodgress. The raw honesty in the lyrics gives fans a glimpse into his personal life during this period.
• Minimalist Approach: “Motion Pictures” stands out for its minimalist approach, primarily featuring Neil Young’s voice and an acoustic guitar, which emphasizes the song’s introspective nature.

“Ambulance Blues” – On the Beach

• Lyric References: “Ambulance Blues” contains references to several of Young’s contemporaries, including Richard Nixon and the folk scene in Yorkville, Toronto. These references make the song a sort of time capsule of that era.
• Longest Track: At nearly nine minutes, “Ambulance Blues” is one of the longest songs in Neil Young’s catalog, allowing him to explore different themes and melodies in a single track.

“Revolution Blues” – On the Beach

• Controversial Inspiration: The song is said to be inspired by the infamous Charles Manson, which caused some controversy upon the album’s release.
• Band Collaboration: “Revolution Blues” features the band The Beach Boys’ Dennis Wilson and The Band’s Rick Danko and Levon Helm, adding a unique blend to the song’s sound.

“Will to Love” – American Stars ‘n Bars

• Unique Recording Method: Neil Young recorded “Will to Love” in a single take, sitting by a fireplace. This impromptu method gives the track its distinctive, crackling background, adding to its intimate feel.
• Experimental Sound: The song is known for its experimental sound, with Young overlaying multiple vocal and instrumental tracks to create a dreamlike quality.

“Barstool Blues” – Zuma

• Classic Rock Feel: “Barstool Blues” is often noted for its classic rock feel, reminiscent of Young’s work with Crazy Horse, yet it stands out on the “Zuma” album for its more direct and concise rock style.
• Lyrical Complexity: Despite its straightforward rock sound, the lyrics of “Barstool Blues” are complex and introspective, showcasing Young’s skill as a lyricist in balancing rock energy with deep meaning.

And there you have it, fellow music lovers and DJs! We’ve journeyed through some of Neil Young’s most underrated yet profoundly impactful songs. Each track tells a unique story, showcasing the immense depth and versatility of this legendary artist. So, grab your headphones, dive in, and let the music of Neil Young transport you to unexplored sonic landscapes. Thanks for tuning in with me, TBone, at Level Tunes!

Thanks for reading.

TBone