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Sunday, October 25, 2026 · Page 2 of 16
Earth Girl - Second Song of the Day

Letters from the week of 10/16/2026 for the TIMES CONTRARIAN

Letters submitted by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks for the letters everyone!
I enjoy reading them every week and answering!
LOVE NEIL
Be Well

 


FROM THE MUSIC BUNKIE


 

Just in from the music bunkie, which I am very fortunate to have, I know. Jammed/overdubbed some drums and guitar. Nothing “special” yet what fun and real time. In this world of being elsewhere, this improvisation/immersion is where it’s at. If you’re playin’, you’re stayin’.
Thanks for this space to dig music in all instances.

Cooler now, leaves are falling. Bundle up.

Sandy
Lake of Bays, Ontario

 

Sandy …. Enjoy
Thanks!
LOVE Neil
Be Well

 


FARMAID


 

Hey, Neil. I just watched the Farm Aid show on YT and you continue to be amazing!
Long may you run!

 


A TRAVESTY


 

I want to alert the team that Donald Trump is using Rocking in the Free World in his rally in Ohio tonight. Youngstown Ohio Monday October 12, 2026. A travesty I am sure Neil would not condone.

Thank you.
Susan

 

Hi Susan
We are responding.
Thanks!
LOVE Neil
Be Well

 


CSNY 2006


 

Hi Neil-

Is there any chance you have this show from CSNY 2006 in your archive? I maintain this version of WOODEN SHIPS is the most desperate, heart-wrenching and intense version you fellers ever played. And I've listened to A LOT of them.

Maybe it was the times. I dunno. But my goodness, I go back to this audience recording regularly.

Enjoy this day,
Garrett L.

 

Garret
We will take a listen
Thanks!
LOVE Neil
Be Well

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of 10/9/2026 for the TIMES CONTRARIAN

Letters submitted by NYA Members for Neil
THANKS AGAIN FOR WRITING IN!
Love neil

 


SOUTHERN MAN


 

Hello, on the studio versions of Southern Man (After The Gold Rush):

After first chorus and verses are sung, when double time starts, the first lick?
Did Neil play it on EAD strings 8-10-12 or ADG 3-5-7 position?
This might be an impossible proposition to answer.
I have a debate going with a few of us guitar nerds.

Thanx In Advance
NY Stunt Double from Winnipeg

 

I’ll take a listen and…
LOVE Neil
Thanks
BE WELL

 


LAKE HUGHES


 

Is Mr. Young performing at lake Hughes this year (’26)?

 

I am not sure if there will be be a show this year.
Thanks
Be well
LOVE Neil

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of 10/2/2026 for the TIMES CONTRARIAN:

Letters submitted by NYA Members for Neil
A wonderful collection of deep feelings from so many folks! I read all your letters so don’t worry about me seeing them!
I DO!
love Neil

 

 


SECOND SONG


 

I have copies of just about all your albums. I have loved the run of albums from Colorado on. I have really enjoyed the previous two albums with the Chrome Hearts. I’m not sure what I was expecting or hoping for with Second Song but it wasn’t this. It has blown me away. It is so good.

Thank you.

Neil Sidebotham.

 

Thanks Neil! Keep enjoying the magic of music!
LOVE
Neil
Be Well

 


REMAINING YEARS


 

Mr. Young, I feel I want you to know that you, sir, have been my fav artist for many many years. I have no doubt that You will continue to always always be my fav for the remaining years I have. My son just showed me how to bring you and Your amazing words, voice, and instruments to my TV screen to enjoy! And I do! Sitting. Reflecting. Chilling.

Thank You Sir!

You have Added So Much BEAUTY to my ears, mind, soul ♥️ :-)
PLEASE RELAY THIS NOTE OF GRATITUDE YO MR. YOUNG.

I read every note myself. If I ever stop I will let you know!
I am so happy you enjoy this music and any music!
LOVE
Neil
Be Well!

 

 


ON THE BEACH COVER CARTOON


 

Hi!
I would just like to inform that my small publisher has published this cartoon about Neil Young! Made by Daniel Østvold and written in English.

I would be glad to send it to you, either by post or as a pdf.

Very best wishes,
Ann-Turi Ford

 

Ann - Super Cool version of the On The Beach cover!
LOVE
Neil
Be Well

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of 9/25/2026 for the TIMES CONTRARIAN

Letters submitted by NYA Members for Neil

Thanks folks for all these letters and the nice words about Second Song!

LOVE TO ALL

neil


SECOND SONG


 

Hi Neil,

Second Song is your best album in years. The songs are intense and the sound is magical. It's like a big daydream. I wish there were more of it!

I'd like to take this opportunity to ask if you could release some outtakes from House of David, January 1983.

Thank you.
All the best.
Matt from Italy

 

Thanks Matt
We will look at House of David
LOVE
neil

 


RIDING THE PEACE TRAIL


 

Hey Neil it’s Joseph, I wrote to you a couple times last year. I’m a junior in college now and I just got my driver’s license. I got my first car, which I’ve been saving up for ages for. One day maybe I’ll get an old Buick like you, but not today. Ive been going for long drives listening to your music out on Lake Hughes Road, what a beautiful drive! I just drove out there this morning playing your new album, and what a album! my favorite song is Soon I Might be Gone, I love long songs like that. I love all your new stuff, Talkin to the Trees might be one of my favorite albums you’ve ever made.

Keep riding the peace trail.
LOVE Joseph

 

Thanks Joseph
LOVE
neil

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of 9/18/2026 for the TIMES CONTRARIAN

Letters submitted by NYA Members for Neil

 

Thanks Folks
Love reading these letters you send.
It gives us a personal connection
LOVE neil

 

 


A FINAL BLOW


 

Hey, Neil.

I was just listening to the Archives Volume Three and thought it would be pretty fucking awesome if you did a “Hey Hey, My My” version DEVO-style updated with the lyrics including “DONNIE ROTTEN” (with Amyl or someone). There’s never been a more rotten MF in the history of our planet. And it’s time for you to deal him a final blow.

Sending this with all my love and appreciation for everything you’ve done through the decades. You have shaped my world view and it was a dream come true to see you in Bend last year.
Universal One, Bless You! You have made a huge difference for the good of our planet.

Sincerely,
Ron

 

Ron
I would focus on positive things to do in our situation.
Thanks,
LOVE Neil
Be well

 


PLH PAGE


 

Hi Neil~

Hope all is well and that you are gearing up for Farm Aid. I will be watching at home. Thankful for live broadcasts and improvements in technology.

Glad to hear NYA didn’t ‘give up’ on the PLH page. I have noticed a few glitches since the upgrade.

I was fortunate to attend a live meditation and discussion with JKZ, the father of Mindfulness last week. Finding that peace within.…

My practice has deepened recently as my 84-year-old mom had to be moved into memory unit due to her cognitive decline, wandering and fall risks.

She has not ‘recovered’ from the death of her husband, my dad. My father was a professional photographer in the ’60s and ’70s. My parents were followers of Willie Nelson, attended many shows, and, according to my mom, met him. My dad carried a Hasselblad at times. I have yet to find any photos of WN; however, I did find some interesting photos of the moon landing. There are ten various pics (4X4) of the event printed on ‘a Kodak paper’ on the back and a black marking on the border of the photo side. I found them in the safe.

My parents were not transparent about their finances and such.

Any thoughts on those pics would be appreciated. As far as the PLH page, I will submit another article. Where shall I direct it? I highly recommend we conduct a live meditation and discussion with your and D’s presence to all members of NYA. Just a thought … Mindfulness matters.

As always, thank you for taking your time to read my words.

Much love,

 

Linda
Thanks Linda,
We will tell you where to send your articles….
LOVE Neil
Be well

 


EURO DATES?


 

Hi Neil, hope yer well, just a short question: are you planning any euro dates to make up for last year? Was so looking forward to taking my daughter to her first neil show.

Health comes first, hope this ain’t a cheeky question.

Jim
Greenock Scotland.

 

Looking at Italy and France first,Then the rest of Europe if i do another tour, because they were missed by the tour planners last time out.
Thanks Jim,
LOVE Neil
Be well

 

 


AUTUMN


 

Hello Neil, autumn is here again and dark nights, perfect for movies and music

Egil

 

Yes!
Thanks Egil,
LOVE Neil
Be well

 


BEATLES FRIENDS


 

Hi Neil,

I know you and Paul McCartney are close and have collaborated, and you played with George Harrison at BobFest. Have you ever played with Ringo? I’d love to hear that.

Longtime listener, longtime letter writer,

 

Ryan from T.O.
No i have not. he is a great drummer!
Thanks Ryan,
LOVE Neil
Be well

 


SOLDIER


 

Hello. I’ve loved the song “Soldier” by Neil for decades. I recently learned there might be a video version with the fire you can hear in the background of the recording. It would mean a great deal to me if I could see this. Does it exist? Can you please let me know how I could watch and listen to it?

Thank you much.
And please thank Neil from the bottom of my heart for him and his music.

 

Looking for that one. I think we have it!
Thanks,
LOVE Neil
Be well

 


INSIDE GREENDALE


 

Inside Greendale in The Hearse did it.

I had noted some earlier enjoyments to send in: Barn, with They Might Be Lost, Children of the Fires and Floods, the ears-intimate guitar sound on Welcome Back and the fine camaraderie. And Road Rocks: World on a String, Winterlong, Bad Fog of Loneliness (Telecaster), Words (big fun for all), Ben crying out on Tonight’s the Night, Spooner subtle and sweet and the killer Peace of Mind. Camera views/edit, mix to hear all parts, Keltner swingin’, Duck groovin’, Pegi and Astrid rich (and soaked), Cowgirl solos, Mellow My Mind.

Then comes Falling From Above. Love this song and take (yet you all are gonna do another). The timing is great: When I was young, people wore what they had on (versus) … a little love and affection in everything you do, will make the world a better place, with or without you. Comes when I’m annoyed with my aging spot, while recognizing the best choice of how to behave next.

Thanks again, man.

Cheers,
Sandy
Lake of Bays, Ontario

 

Thanks Sandy,
LOVE Neil
Be well

 


GREENDALE


 

Neil!

Looking forward to the new LP.

By any chance, does film exist of the Greendale concerts performed at Radio City Music Hall during winter 2004? I recall a little extra intensity to the performances as compared to the summer 2003 tour.

Thanks!

Greg

 

We are looking!
Thanks Greg,
LOVE Neil
Be well

 


FULL CIRCLE


 

Going on tour to see Neil Young in 2025 … It wasn’t just about going to concerts. It was about coming full circle after 46 years.

DUBLIN. WITH EMANUELA. IN THE POURING RAIN.

That’s how it begins. You and me, Emanuela, my wife, my love

Malahide Castle, outside Dublin. An Irish June, which means winter. Freezing cold, wind that chills you to the bone, and a vertical, vicious rain—the kind that never stops. We were soaked to the bone before it even started.

There we were, caked in mud, huddled together under a rain jacket that was completely useless, our hands frozen.

Then he came on stage. Neil. With that hat, that guitar. And he started playing.

And in that moment, the cold was gone. The rain was gone. There was only that voice, weathered like our lives, singing the same songs we used to sing when we were 14 in our little bedroom. There was “Like a Hurricane,” which really was a hurricane raging above us.
Being there with you meant this: that after all these years, we can still hop on a plane, get soaked like two silly kids, and be moved by the same thing. It was our concert. Intimate, epic, romantic in the downpour.

I thought it ended there. Instead, it was just the beginning.

THEN, THE OVEN (38 degrees). WITH THE IDIOTS.

A few days later, a complete change of scenery. From 8 degrees and rain to 38 degrees in the shade and scorching sun

The 9-seater Mercedes van. Let’s call it what it is: a cattle car. Driven by idiots. Wonderful idiots.
Paolo, Lorenzo, Andrea, Francesco, Giovanni, Giorgio, and Sergio. Seven 60-year-old idiots in a rented black van, with the AC cranked up to 1000 and our playlists playing nothing but Neil

Brussels, Groningen, Berlin, Mönchengladbach. One name after another, like the stages of a full Tour of Europe we never actually did.

35, 36, 38 degrees. The asphalt was melting. We were sweating, cursing as we searched for parking, getting lost, laughing like we did when we were 18. Warm beers, sandwiches wolfed down on the highway, blisters on our feet, black T-shirts soaked—not from rain but from sweat.
And every night, him. Always him.

What did it mean?

It meant realizing that we’ve never stopped. We’ve been listening to Neil Young since we were 14. 1979. We had long hairs and Levi’s 501s, and we already knew that “Cortez the Killer” was more important than anything else they were teaching us in school.

At 60, we’re still there. We haven’t gotten any wiser; we’ve just gotten older, with knees that ache if we stand for five hours. But when the harmonica in “Heart of Gold” kicks in, we’re 14 again. All seven of us.

It meant that friendship isn’t about fancy dinners. It’s about six or seven of us crammed into a nine-seater Mercedes that reeks of sweat, arguing over who gets to pick the music…—we always end up playing Neil anyway—and singing at the top of our lungs, even if we’re way off key.

Dublin with Emanuela was love that withstands the cold and the rain.
The summer tour with Paolo, Sergio, Lorenzo, Andrea, Francesco, Giovanni, and Giorgio was proof that our adolescence never ended. We just parked it in a van and drove it around Europe.
By the end, we were exhausted, sunburned, and hoarse. But rich. We saw our Italian, Dutch, and German friends, plus the Americans, on a faraway road trip.

Because how many people can say they’ve followed their hero from when they were kids all the way to age 60—first in the pouring rain with the love of their life, and then in the European asphalt desert with their idiot brothers?

We can.

Long live the idiots
Old Coyote

 

Thanks Coyote,
LOVE Neil
Be well

 


BRIDGEPORT


 

Hey Neil-

Hope you're well. Looking forward to seeing you in Bridgeport.

What have you been listening to lately?

-Thomas

 

Thanks Thomas,
See you there…Listening to the world!
LOVE Neil
Be well

 


MOVIETONE FUNCTIONALITY


 

Hello,

Could you please add functionality in Movietone to be able to fast forward to sections in the movies. At present there is no way to do this, and its quite frustrating if the browser crashes and you have to go right back to the beginning of a film.

Thanks,

Andrew - Patron

 

Thanks Andrew,
Good idea..looking into that
LOVE Neil
Be well

 


STAND FOR PEACE


 

Hi how about Stand for Peace in Philly? pushing 70 and enjoyed every show here and in Camden prices a bit steep but worth it.

Ever though about IMAX film? sure would support.

Be well. keep it going please we need it now more than ever.

Peace out

 

Frank South Jersey. I stand for peace.
Thanks Frank,
Looking at that now….
LOVE Neil
Be well

 

 

 

Letters from the week of 9/11/2026 for the TIMES CONTRARIAN

Letters submitted by NYA Members for Neil

THANKS FOR THESE LETTERS FOLKS!
LOVE
NEIL


PLAYING MUSIC


 

Hi Neil,

Hope you are doing well. I just wanted to share a quick story … you inspired me to go beyond any technical limitations in music (I don't read music, don't have extensive knowledge of theory and all that) and get to a point where I now make my own music. It took 20 years to get to that point, so many years playing in bands, trying to learn cover songs note-for-note, it was fun and great experience, however, I always felt that doing original music was out of reach, until I read some interviews you did, maybe back in the early ’90s.

You basically said learning scales and all that wasn't your approach … so in 2015 I was playing fingerstyle stuff on my acoustic and I recorded it … listened back over the next few weeks and didn't like it and went back to cover songs. I was discouraged, so didn't try again—for eight years. But then in 2023 I went through probably the most difficult time in my life, relationship issues, loss of a parent, and in that despair I was sitting with my acoustic and I remembered those interviews of yours … and things just started to flow….

… and flow and flow and flow … it literally felt like I was bleeding through the guitar. I recorded all of it. It was like a tidal wave of ideas—I recorded everything, but the key is, I DIDN'T THINK. I just played. Listening back, I could feel the emotion. No standard song structure, no set time limits, no nothing other than just stopping whatever I was doing when I started hearing melodies in my head.

Then more in 2024, much less in 2025, but then this year even more things happened in life. Wow—the flood of musical ideas was torrid. That's the only way to describe it … I'd be at work (where I have a guitar) and I might have a 5-minute break, but I'd record whatever came to me in that moment. The great thing is that I'm not “trying," I'm just playing. I even have my own “archives," in that I have bits of ideas everywhere, and something may find a home months or years later. From what I know of you, I do music and art the same way you do. This "muse" thing. If I don't feel it, I don't play. Simple as that.

I manage a chronic illness, got three college degrees, hiked all the high mountains in Vermont and New Hampshire and have a successful career as a mental health therapist, but nothing in my life compares or comes close to the feeling of finally being able to create original music. Nobody will hear it outside of myself and my family and friends, but who cares about any of that.

So I just wanted to take the time to thank you for a lifetime of music and for being my biggest inspiration.

Thank you,
Sincerely,

Brian

p.s. I had lost the things I did in 2015, but I recently found them—I can hear how tentative I was, but I can also hear the beginnings of "my" sound in them … I don't have kids, so they're like my "kids" in a way … the later things I did are no better on a "technical" level playing-wise, but the attitude is there, the feel is there and the confidence is there. I am going to bend the guitar to my will and that's all there is to that. It's just been a wonderful experience.

 

Brian
I’m happy to hear your story. keep on playing… I hope the music brings you Joy and relief ,as it has for me.
Thanks!
LOVE Neil
Be Well

 


BONNAROO


 

I just wanted to thank Zeke for bringing the Bonnaroo show to NYA. It is an important, historic performance.

 

I will tell him!
Thanks!
LOVE Neil
Be Well

 


PLAYING MUSIC


 

Hey Neil,
I wanted to let you know about a story about the song "Comes a Time.”

I used to work at a Summer Camp called Camp Thunderbird in Victoria, BC. Every final campfire, we would sing the song "Comes a Time.” It is really magical to sing around a campfire with the tall trees and lake in the background. This was 25 years ago.

This summer, my daughter final got to go to the camp. On the way home "Comes a Time" came on, and she started singing it. I asked if they sang it at camp. They did. 25 years later.

I know you are occasionally in the area. Should you happen to be in the area during the summer, I know it would be a great privilege for the camp if you happen to show up on final campfire night to help sing the song!

Thank you about it!
Don Peterson

 

Thanks Don
LOVE Neil
Be Well

 


SECOND SONG


 

Hi Neil, I'm really looking forward to "Second Song.” Between the "After the Gold Rush" typeface and the two songs from the ’60s, what is it about this album that inspired you to look back at your past work? Do you see it as a sequel to "Gold Rush”?
Thanks,
Marc

 

Marc,
It’s just the way I am now…
Thanks!
LOVE Neil
Be Well

 


GREENDALE


 

Hey Neil!

Can you please remaster the Greendale Album?
I’d love to hear that!
The Mirrorball sounds excellent!

Regards from Germany
Philip

 

Yes. I think we have done that and it will be released. soon!
Thanks!
LOVE Neil
Be Well

 


ANSWERS


 

Hi Neil,

Was there any material left over from the Stills/Young Sessions?

Would you consider some shows with Stephen and Graham?

Midterms coming: any rallies coming playing with old rockers or any rockers?

Did you know the other Beatles apart from Paul?

Not really

Have you ever jammed with Joe Walsh?
Yes . He is great and it was fun….

Could you confide in me what is the real reason you don't want to tour these days?

Gloria Steinem once said apparently truth will free you even though it might piss you off at first. Comment.

New Album title Truth Kills?

Who would ever believe Canada and US talking at each other what shame would be like us dissing New Zealand never happen.

Sometimes I get the vibe from some contributors that they think well it's ok for Neil to have these opinions he's rich and not struggling like us on the ground out there in the real world.

Being rich does not mean you give up your feelings.

David Geffen said apparently about dealing with Rock stars, Eagles in particular, level people seem to go into a alternate realities: do you believe that, Neil?

is the Broken Arrow Ranch a future recording venue?

How many functioning cars do you have now?

5 or 6…
depending on the day, more or less!

I come from most humble childhood working people are really suffering at the moment yet the Bezos, Musk, Zuckerberg, Steve Allen continue on their merry way.
This not the way liberal capitalism was meant to end up like supposed to bring all the people along its not happening many left behind.

Any answers?

Ditch Citizens United-

I heard you comment that Harvest was not your favourite LP: what is?

Mine is “Zuma." So fresh clear and crisp must have been fun playing that session in a house I believe.

Hope you answer all the questions probably not worth a try might as well!!

I answered the ones I wanted to!

Sincere regards!!
Steve Downunder (McEvoy)

 

Thanks Steve!
LOVE Neil
Be Well

 


AI


 

I believe that Neil's voice and likeness, along with many other classic rock stars, have been ripped off with AI for this video. Thought he might want to know.

I assume Neil has seen the video of Neil Young supposedly picking his top 5 rock songs
I thought it was very special and good till I read in comments it was fake.

Is it an AI fake? And Neil what do you think of it—both the content and fact that someone made such a fake?

 

Never seen or heard of it
Thanks!
LOVE Neil
Be Well

 


ALBUQUERQUE


 

Dear Neil Young,

From Machiel in Haarlem, The Netherlands, re: Albuquerque

Of course I like the versions you have here on the site, from 1973 I believe, with the steel guitar and the many vocals and instruments.

But I really love the version from 1999, when it is just you, Hank William's guitar and the harmonica.

That sober setting so fits the lyrics. Can this be here on your site as well?

Thanks, Machiel

 

We will check it out
Thanks Michael!
LOVE Neil
Be Well

 


A TRUE COMPANION


 

Dear Neil,

Thank you for your beautiful songs.

I am 20 years old, and your music has been—and will continue to be—a true companion of mine. Your songs carry a comforting presence that feels deeply familiar to me. I am always moved and uplifted listening to your wonderful music. Though this may sound familiar, I wanted to share my sincere appreciation.

I am forever grateful.

P.S. If the time ever feels right, I would love to see you perform in the UK someday.

Sending peace and love,
Lucy
Bristol, UK

 

Thanks Lucy!
LOVE Neil
Be Well

 


BONNAROO


 

Zeke nailed it!!! Wow! The Horse was rockin' at Bonnaroo!

I recall requesting a Shoreline NYCH gig from the Greendale tour, which which included many of the 12 songs featured here.

A quick look on Sugar Mtn for the setlist finds the encore was Hey Hey, My My (Into The Black) / Like A Hurricane / Prisoners Of Rock 'n' Roll / The Losing End (When You're On) / Sedan Delivery / Powderfinger // Rockin' In The Free World. Would still love to hear that show but this Bonnaroo concert might be one of the best live Horse shows in the archives. And the best 2 hours and 20 minutes I've spent in many a moon.

Thanks Zeke!!!

 

Thanks! I will tell Zeke
LOVE Neil
Be Well

 

 

 

Letters from the week of 8/28/2026 for the TIMES CONTRARIAN:

THANKS FOLKS
I REALLY ENJOY YOUR LETTERS TO ME AND LOOK FORWARD TO READING AND ANSWERING EVERY WEEK
LOVE
N

 


JIMMY REED


 

Pre-Show Reed Groves:

Shakey, Is the pre-show Jimmy Reed tunes an actual album playing like “Rockin’ With Reed” or “Carnegie Hall” or a personal collection of favorites? Also, can the post-show version of “Greensleeves” be added in NYA?
Thank you sir, J

 

J
The source of Jimmy is his albums.
I will check on the post show version of Greensleeves.
Thanks!
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


CT & PHILLY


 

Hey Neil,

Pumped for the CT & Philly shows! Would be cool to have Timberline make its live debut ... Chrome Hearts could pull it off well!

Diggin' Second Song. Can't wait for the album!

Thanks,
Michael

 

Thanks Michael
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


CT & PHILLY


 

Hi, I was wondering whether the two concerts in September preceding Farm Aid will feature full concert sets by Neil or whether they will be more abbreviated, limited sets like you might find at a festival or Farm Aid itself. Thank you.

Rich

 

Rich
We are sharing with Willie……..maybe we get hung up and play longer.
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


INTERSTATE


 

Hello—

Have a nerdy question. The version of “Interstate” that I have from the files for the Ragged Glory bonus tracks has an audio hiccup at about 4:45 in the track. Right before the line “I can hear her soft voice calling” there’s a squelch or something. I looked back and it’s also on my vinyl copy that I bought back 30 years ago. BUT it’s not on the “Interstate” version that appears on the Big Time EP CD.

Just curious how that happens and thought I’d point it out if that’s something you want to correct.

Love you guys
Cordially,
Brian Madigan

 

Brian we will check that out.
Thanks
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 

 


HIT 39


 

Casting Me Away & Hit 39

On the recent Patron's Zoom you briefly mentioned an archival release of "Hit 39.”

Interested to know if listening to the Old Ways & Harvesters material, and in particular "Hit 39" (Leaving the Top 40 Behind) was a prompt when you began searching the Archives for some old songs to fit the mood of Second Song (& settled on "Casting Me Away”).

No, IT WASN’T

Those two songs are twins—identical twins—like Train of Love & Western Hero. I know it's all one song, but I'm fascinated in whether there was a trigger to dig that deep & settle on that song in particular.
The lyrics are totally different.

No doubting that Second Song is special. You must be so proud of what you've made with the Chrome Hearts.

Now for the tour … !

Thanks, as ever, for your time.
Mark

 

Thanks Mark
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


AMAZON


 

I thought that all music content was to be removed from Amazon. Why is Neil's entire catalogue including CDs, vinyl and box sets still available for sale direct from Amazon, not third-party sellers? Second Song is also listed for pre-sale.

I have bought the last few releases from NYA/Warners Canada.

Regards,
Fred

 

Fred
We are investigating. a first report will come today.
At this point, it seems AMAZON is buying from other retailers and re-selling.
From management:
The only possibilities I can think of are this is previous stock Amazon already purchased, or that Amazon is buying through one-stops.
Amazon also has Second Song listed with no stock while every other retailer has it stocked and is taking orders.
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


SECOND SONG


 

Dear Neil,

I am thoroughly enjoying Second Song—thank you. I am very much looking forward to the album. There have been lots of comments online and especially on Thrashers’ Wheat suggesting what the song is about. Only you will know. And then maybe not entirely—you follow where the muse guides you.

One person commented that you have always had this tendency to write lyrics that feel more like a stream of consciousness. That is true, but they also mean something.

The British writer John le Carré said artists should use autobiographical material as it is closest to their hearts. I know that you do this, and have done so in Second Song, and in many others you have written.

For what it is worth, my belief is that Second Song deals with memories: the memories of an old man (please don’t be offended; I am only five years behind you and catching up fast) and this song in part recalls times with Pegi and Daryl.

The evidence on which I rely:

I need to talk to someone
Someone who smiles and answers back
Someone as old as I am
Who still remembers some of that. —Pegi. OK she was five years younger than you, but she was like a hurricane, or so I am led to believe.

Drifting in a sea of darkness
The captain waited for sunrise
Thought he saw a mermaid comin'
Off the bow and rubbed his eyes —Daryl. The mermaid in Splash

And there are lots, lots more. I could analyse the words line by line, as we had to last century for my English degree, but as I said to the lecturers at the time, why destroy the beauty and meaning the writer created and intended. Just understand it with your heart.

So I will listen to Second Song and lose myself time and again in the wonderful world that this song creates. And if I am wrong, then make it up on another day. Baby I don’t care. But you do, and you care deeply.

Thank you for all that your music means and has given to so many for so many years.

Love to you and Daryl, and family
Ex Judge David

 

MANY Thanks DAVID
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


MICHAEL COHEN


 

Dear Neil—

Consider this a letter to the Editor of the NYA Times-Contrarian.

Platforming Michael Cohen on the Viewpoint page has always been hard for me to stomach. When his posts appeared I ignored them and figured sooner or later you would dump him.

Cohen is currently hunting for a pardon. He doesn't deserve one, but he'll probably get one. Or Trump will toy with him and discard him with maximum humiliation the same way he did years ago after realizing that Cohen couldn't legally hurt him.

Soul is winning. Michael Cohen doesn't have soul. He sold it long ago.

Thanks for NYA, Neil.
Jamie

 

Thanks Jamie
Just skip his column, or not. He has a Viewpoint too.
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


CASTING ME AWAY


 

Love the old song, can you provide more loving details about Comrie and how he helped shaped your musical life? We know lots about Bruce Palmer and Stills etc. I hope in the vinyl/cd there is more detail around him.
—T

 

Thanks T
Comrie is gone now. He was a GOOD OLE FRIEND!
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


BRIDGE SCHOOL


 

Dear Neil,

I taught at the Bridge School for many years in the early days, as a Teacher of the Visually Impaired.

I've started a letter to you, with the inspiration from your song: One of These Days. In fact, I worked with your son, Ben, at Half Moon Bay High School to enhance his experience there. For Amber, I suggested that she enroll in books on tape to complete her studies. I am not trying to toot my own horn, but instead to speak to you about the impact and knowledge in my life that Bridge School and our amazing children, families, and staff made for me.

I have been writing letters to just those people in my life who have been kind, memorable, and made a difference in my life. I left Bridge to work with complex students as the Principal of the California School for the Blind. In the spirit of your heartfelt song, I continue to let the people know now and not have regrets.

So thank you and I wish your best,
Debby

 

Thanks to you Debby!
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


SECOND SONG


 

“Second Song” and “Cast Me Away from You.” Holy Christ, you've taken me on a 40-year journey through time. You're one of a kind, and you've meant so much to me. Your music brings me joy at every moment of my day … I'm getting older too, but I accept it because the things you post really make me feel good.

We’re waiting for you in Italy or Europe, my friend.

Thank you
Old Coyote

 

Thanks Old Coyote
hope too see you there!
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


SUN GREEN


 

Hi Neil,

As the author of one of my favorite concept/story albums of all time, “Greendale,” I was curious if we could get an update of where Sun Green would be today, and what you believe she would be doing to fight the corruption from within our own government, not just in relation to environmental protections, but the blatant attacks on our Constitution and founding principles?

Thanks and sending much love,
Bridget

 

Bridget
If I see her i will ask!
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


TIMER


 

Thank you, Neil, for sharing another ride along the ranch with us. I have read stories about some of your dogs, but I have never read about Timer. He looks to be the same breed as Art, which I read was shot by a neighbor for chasing his cattle. I hope Timer didn't have the same instincts and lived to a ripe old age!

With Love,
Mary Jane

 

He lived a long life!!! Mary Jane….Like us I hope!
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


HORDE


 

Neil, can we get a recording from one of the HORDE festival shows? 8/21/97 was my first time seeing you, I was only 9. Remember it like yesterday. Acoustic Southern Man. Also, any chance Broken Arrow will get a vinyl release soon?

P.S. can we get the Zuma t-shirt again in the shop?

Thanks.
Keep on rockin in the free world
F Trump

 

We will listen to it, It is in the next ORS Box and we are working on the Zuma shirt.
Looking into your questions now.
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


SECOND SONG


 

Hi Neil,

Hope you are having a great day! I am so excited to see you in Connecticut next month! I hope we get to hear your amazing new material live, especially “Second Song.” It’s one of the best songs you've put out in years and I'd love to hear it blossom live. See you soon!

Best,
Matt

 

Thanks Matt
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


INDIGENOUS MUSIC


 

Hello, Neil

Adrian Sutherland is the indigenous singer that did Heart of Gold in Cree. He said you were pretty cool with it.

I'm headed down to the Concert Hall in Toronto on Saturday to see some Indigenous bands raising money for the forest fire situation. Adrian Sutherland will be playing.

I'm going to be telling him that I've secured recording time for his new album in with a good friend of mine in Midland, Dylan Lock. I'm going to take care of the costs so all Rights belong to Adrian. We're going to use this album to launch a new program to put water treatment equipment on his band’s land in Attawapisat on James Bay and in Grassy Narrows. I've been working with Chapman's ice cream on some pretty cool hydrogen-powered equipment that will clean things up and not leave anything behind. Then, we’re gonna raise some shit.
If you're free Saturday night, I'd love to invite you to the show.

Rod

P.S. Best show I've ever seen was Greendale in TO a few years ago. R.

 

Thanks Rod
Good stuff u r doing!
we have a film of that Greendale Toronto show. Its coming in VOLUME 4….!!
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


SECOND SONG


 

Neil,

Your pal Rick sent me an advance of “Second Song” three weeks ago and after listening to it constantly, walking, gardening, cooking and sitting in the backyard, I've got to say that it's the best thing you've shared with us in twenty years.

It has the precious vibe of a beautiful, heartfelt conversation with an old friend. Nothing is rushed. The songs reveal themselves slowly, so I only felt ready to start writing about them today. You're not only telling your story. You're telling our stories. I can't thank you enough for the journey these songs take me on.

Doug

 

Thanks Doug
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


CANADA UNITED


 

Hi Neil,

I just wanted to thank you for your Canada United commentary.

I agree with it 100%. If anything, being a true Canadian, you were a little too diplomatic. Most Americans don't realize as much as we have valued America as our best friend and ally, we are Canadians because we don't want to be Americans. We are a much more inclusive and compassionate society. We believe in our social safety net and not just our rights as individuals but our collective rights as well.

I have always believed that Canada is an example and model of what the world could become. We are always striving to be a better society.

Someone of such low moral character like President Trump could never be elected in Canada. He is a megalomaniac, narcissist, misogynist, racist, criminal, liar, untrustworthy, greedy, vindictive, undignified, lacks integrity, a bully and acts like a petulant toddler having a tantrum. It is hard to believe that America elected him for a second term. They say that you deserve the leaders you elect, but I really think America deserves better. Every day it is hard to believe that crap that comes out of his mouth. He has no filter and a normal person would not even think of things that he does. He must be deranged.

If America were living up to their previous values, they would support Ukraine to the fullest and kick the Russians out of all of Ukraine. I don't think the average American knows that the USA is buying lumber products from Russia at a lower tariff rate than Canada, which supports their war effort against Ukraine. How does that make any sense?

The only true point that Trump has said about Canada is that we have had an over-reliance on military protection from the USA and have not spent enough on military defence. This is now changing and we will eventually be more self-reliant. Canada's traditional role has been as a neutral and reliable peacekeeper.

I believe that Canada is a much more democratic country than the USA. Our electorate is much more independent. Most of us are not staunch party supporters but elect the best person running in our riding who we believe will represent us the best.

Ridings are based on total population, not by political or racial lines.

I hope America wakes up and realizes what damage Trump has done to their reputation, their country and the rest of the world.

Love and Peace,
Fred

 

Fred
Agreed!
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 


CT AND PHILLY


 

Neil, got my tickets to CT and Philly. Can't wait for the shows. Love the presale access NYA membership offers. Thank you!

Over the past three years I have been able to tick off several of my live show bucket list songs including Mr. Soul, Ohio, Southern Man, and Old Man. I'd love to get a Sugar Mountain and/or a Needle and the Damage Done in these two shows as these are the only ones left on my bucket list. Again, can't wait for these two shows. I hope there will be more shows soon.

Safe travels to you, the band, and crew.
Joe Wiseman

 

Thanks Joe
See you there!
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL

 

 

 

Letters from the week of 8/21/2026 for the TIMES CONTRARIAN:

THANKS FOLKS
I REALLY ENJOY YOUR LETTERS TO ME AND LOOK FORWARD TO READING AND ANSWERING EVERY WEEK
LOVE
N


GRANDSON’S VINYLS


 

Hello,

I just wanted to let you know that my 4-year-old grandson absolutely loves Neil Young. He has several vinyls and has many favorite songs.

Last week my son took him to a record store and he bought 2 CSNY albums to add to his collections. There is something in Neil’s voice and passion that reaches him.

Thanks Neil—you just never know who your music touches ❤️❤️❤️

 

That’s great ENJOY!!
LOVE Neil
be well

 


COASTAL


 

Coastal on NYA?

 

I know its not up.
I will check on it
LOVE Neil
be well

 


GRATITUDE AND LOVE


 

Dear Neil,

I am writing this to share that you were the direct catalyst for an act of divine intervention in our lives. Our love story all starts with your performance with Crazy Horse at Forest Hills Stadium in New York on May 14, 2024 and what happened there brought us straight to the "I do." When people ask how we met, we say, "We owe it all to Neil Young"

On September 5, 2026 at 12:00 noon, my fiancé, Kevin, and I will be married at the Harbor Mist Restaurant in Cold Spring Harbor, New York. In your honor, our first dance will be to "Harvest Moon!”

Thank you for the soundtrack to our forever and making the magic happen!
If you happen to be in the area, please come on by. We would absolutely love to have you there!

With gratitude,
Angela and Kevin Kern

 

Thanks Angela and Kevin
LOVE Neil
be well

 


I LOVE HER TOO


 

Just wanted to let Neil Young know I think you are my favorite for many many years.
Love ya Neil
Love your wife too. Lol great actress.

 

I love her too!!!
Thanks
LOVE Neil
be well

 


CROS


 

Hi Neil,

Today is David's Birthday. Any favorite Croz tune come to mind?

-Mudflow Mike

 

Several!!
LOVE Neil
be well

 


TRANS


 

Hello Neil,

I finally listened to TRANS this year...

It's been on very heavy rotation for several months now! Love every single track on there, especially SAMPLE AND HOLD.

Thanks and much love,
Khalid
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

*Let's "put ICE in the lava river!”

 

Thanks Khalid
LOVE Neil
be well

 


SECOND SONG


 

Hi Neil~

I hope you are well. Thank you the meditative video with the new song. Such an amazing landscape, kinda felt like a roller coaster ride, as is life.

Sad to see the removal of the Peace, Love and Happiness page. I sent over a few writing pieces…

I have been ‘teaching’ peace for over a decade, both formally and informally. Tough to market. And when someone like you gives up a chance to educate others, it hurts my heart.

“Peace is always in you.
It is the safe place at the center of your being.
It is not hard to find,
but is often forgotten.

Remember it ~ frequently.
Embrace it~consciously”

 

About Peace
Peace Love and Happiness page will be back
it was lost in a tech rebuild
LOVE Neil
be well

 


PEACE LOVE AND HAPPINESS


 

Scott Shaw

I suppose it’s all about the numbers. Imagine, the number of people who could be reminded to tap into their inner peace and wisdom.…

In my humble opinion, Mindfulness is foundational, for every human. Recognizing your thoughts and emotions as you navigate life experiences, and honoring each breath that keeps you alive. Most recently, I applied for a grant to sustain The Consciously Evolving Community. We shall see.

Please know that I am happy to support the PL&H page, if desired and, if you deem me worthy.
At 62, I feel the need to be more vocal. There is a tremendous disconnect between like minded souls and lots of judgement, in the real time. Such times of shift.

As always, thank you for taking your time to read my words.
Much love,
Linda

 

Linda
Lets try it
Send some stories
LOVE Neil
be well

 


NEW ALBUM


 

Robert Christgau review ATE

Neil Young & the Chrome Hearts: As Time Explodes (Reprise) Right—at 80, stretching back what is now 58 years, this Canadian expat has made a whole lot of nominally solo albums, 56 depending on how you count ‘em, and 11 of those including this one are live. So it’s both sad and tragic that near as I can recall not one of them mentions the White House much less the “fascist school” and “fascist rule,” to which said presidential domicile are closely linked here. Is Young set on igniting the bona fide revolution you and I may well believe is all too overdue? I doubt it. But it’s arguable if not strictly speaking self‑evident and in fact quite likely that on strictly aesthetic/musical as well as ideological grounds this superb album will prove at least as durable and momentous as any the old guy has put together. A PLUS

 

Thanks!
We will see….
LOVE Neil
be well

 


MICAH’S TRANS ANIMATED


 

Hi Neil,

I recently watched Micah and his team’s animated Trans. It’s amazing! He is so talented in so many ways. It would be wonderful if we could hear from Micah on his creative process in developing animated Trans and his take on the story arc created, for each song and across the set of songs. I am so impressed with it! It would make such an out-of-the-box “opening act” for you and The Chrome Hearts. Run it as an opening feature like at an old timey movie theatre with you and the band as the live-action feature. Great way to broaden exposure to it and those songs, which are just brilliant and visionary in so many ways.

All the best to you, Daryl, and your amazing team! See you at Farm Aid!

Best from Arlington, VA—
Joe S

 

Thanks Joe
LOVE Neil
be well

 


CANADIAN SHOW


 

Hi Neil,

We're coming up on the 30th anniversary of one of the greatest NY&CH shows in Ontario. August 31 1996 at Love Earth Park in Barrie. I know Sedan Delivery made it on the album Year of the Horse, but any chance of this full show getting a release in the next Archives?
It was such an amazing performance!

Thanks,
Peterborough Terry!

 

terry
Thanks we will take a look
LOVE Neil
be well

 


BRIDGEPORT


 

Hello Neil!

My name is Justin, and I had wrote you months back in regards to my mother Catherine, who is a big fan of yours but sadly also suffers from dementia at the age of 63. The gist of my writing was in hopes you would consider the amphitheater in Bridgeport CT if you were in the area touring as that’s where we are local to and she cannot travel far.

I had received a mass written email response as you had been inundated with emails and were dealing with personal matters so I figured the chances of my message getting to you were slim to none, anyway fast forward to tonight where I was scrolling through my email and when I usually don’t open many emails, for some reason I clicked on a message from your archives and in it, it mentioned a performance in Bridgeport! I checked my work schedule and I am also off work that night!

Anyway I plan on taking my mom. I don’t know if my initial message got to you or the stars are just aligning the right way, but I am very grateful and this will be a memory I will cherish for the rest of my life. Music is one of the last things to go with dementia and she still knows mostly all of your lyrics.

Thank you so much for everything.

 

See you there
LOVE Neil
be well

 


MANN


 

Neil,

It's great to hear that you are playing at the Mann again this fall.

I've been to many many of your concerts but my first was in 1985 when you played there with the Harvesters. I can't say that i remember all of the details but your album the treasure always brings back the feel of what I saw and heard then, amazing!! One of my favorites.

This year I'll be going with my beautiful wife and two great kids who grew up listening, watching and dancing to your music.

I won't ask you what to play, you know way better than me anyway. Can't wait to see you again my old friend.

Jerry From Jersey

 

Thanks jerry
LOVE Neil
be well

 


OLD SPRINGFIELD TAPES


 

Volume Dealers—

Wondering if you’ve thought about trying out Niko's new vocal demixing tools on those cursed Springfield live tapes such as Hollywood Bowl or Long Beach or Dallas or Whittier High, etc. Or is that just "Lipstick on a Buffalo"?

Omar

 

The quality sucks Omar
Can’t be saved for NYA
Not good enough
LOVE Neil
be well

 


A GLARING EXCEPTION


 

Hey Neil

I recall you wanting to be “Fair & Balanced” on the Contrarian Viewpoints page.
I always look forward to ALL the reposts from contributors WITH ONE GLARING EXCEPTION:
I can’t take Michael Cohen anymore & I’m sure I’m not alone.
He is neither fair nor balanced in his opinions, pontificating and whining.
And he is a boring opportunist.
Please consider putting it to a “members poll.”
(A decent alternative to consider)
dailykos.com

Peace. For All Fan kind.

Herb Hesse
Holbrook

 

Thanks Herb
We will consider it
LOVE Neil
be well

 


COHEN AND TRUMP


 

cohen&trump
Nobody loves you when you're down and out
Nobody sees you when you're on cloud nine
Everybody's hustlin' for a buck and a dime
I'll scratch your back and you scratch mine
I've been across to the other side
There may not be much diff'rence
Between Chairman Mao and Richard Nixon
If we strip them naked
There may not be much diff'rence
Between Marylin Monroe and Lenny Bruce
If we check their coffins
There may not be much diff'rence
Between White House and Hall of People
If we count their windows
There may not be much diff'rence
Between Raquel Welch and Jerry Rubin
If we hear their heartbeat
We're all water from diff'rent rivers
That's why it's so easy to meet
We're all water in this vast, vast ocean
Some day we'll evaporate together
hey Neil how about playing,
LIKE A HURRICANE at Farm Aid

Peace and Love,
Jason

 

Thanks Jason!
We will see
LOVE Neil
be well



Letters from the week of 8/14/2026 for the TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks for the letters folks!
Hope my answers are ok!
Love Neil
be well

 


CONE/SECOND SONG


 

Hey man,

I got a free day, sat in my Barca-lounger with a Richardson's Farm (est. 1695) vanilla ice cream cone and am taking a ride with you on your Second Song. What a perfect time for a second song.

I thought I'd drop you a note. If you had a cone too, we could cheers ‘em.

Drive safe, old friend
Jim Gould

 

Enjoy
VANILLA!
Thanks
Love Neil
be well

 


A QUICK NOTE


 

Neil. Just dropping you a quick note to share something really close to my family’s heart.

My daughter and her family were on vacation in New Hampshire recently and during dinner, an older gentleman was entertaining the crowd. He began singing Sugar Mountain. Before he even sang a note, he was only into it a few chords and my daughter began crying. Our granddaughter asked what was wrong and she said, “My dad used to sing this to me and your aunt when we were babies” (1970s).

Thank you Neil, from the bottom of my heart. You have made a huge contribution and impacted our entire generation. (CSNY2K, you only had one string left on your guitar at Schotenstein Center Ohio State University, that memory will stay with me forever. You gave it all each and every time my wife and I have seen you. THANK YOU!!!!!

 

Thanks
Glad I was there…..
Love Neil
be well

 


MASSEY HALL?


 

Hi Neil,

I’m headed to see you this September at Farm Aid … couldn’t be more excited. Making the drive out from Ontario.

Was curious if you’ve ever thought about doing another Massey Hall show…? Or something along similar lines? It would really be enjoyed by myself and many others I’m sure. I’m only 20, so I’ve never had the chance to see you in a smaller venue like that before - I listen to your early “smaller” performances frequently and absolutely love them. I was also at Budweiser stage last fall and now Farm Aid like I mentioned. Just curious if you’ve had thoughts about something like that recently,

Thanks for everything Neil,
Max

Maybe someday!
Thanks Max
Love Neil
be well

 


SECOND SONG


 

Good morning Mr. Young!! I was blessed with the new song and video this morning and just wanted to let you know how enjoyable it is. Wish that road led you here to Gold Beach.

We were blessed and escaped disaster yesterday from a fire On The Beach. My new sweety works at the visitor center, I was driving into town and saw the smoke and flames blown by the high winds straight to were she was working. They were just looking out the door when I pulled up and told them we had to go now, it was only about 500 yards from were we were. The firefighters did an amazing job contacting it, I feel for the less fortunate in our State. Very thankful they had a helicopter dropping water in about 30 minutes.

Rut Roe I got off the subject of the song and video, I just wish that road would lead you to Gold Beach sometime. It was so fun meeting you and your sweety, and the pups in Bend at the river that day, I got to tell you my rafting story, and that I named my horse Neil after you. Sorry if I bugged you two.

I am playing again without pain, I have had three hand surgeries, the last one finally did the trick. Playing out for the first time in years on the 20th, only original stuff, I am looking forward to it.

What a beautiful song and video, a journey all the way to the redwoods. Quail, a deer, horses too. I thank you for the path of my life in a true way you through your music sent me through. This notes for you, I truly Love and Respect you.
Have a wonderful late summer day.

Same to you my friend
Thanks
Love Neil
be well

 


GOOD OLE EDDIE


 

Hi Neil—
this might amuse you. Last September I saw you perform at Ste. Michelle Winery in Woodinville. Walking the aisles pre-show, I saw a familiar-looking guy eyeing me and grinning. As he neared I saw him staring at the old "More Barn" T-shirt I had on and he flashed me a thumbs up. Suddenly I recognized him. "Eddie!" I exclaimed. It was Eddie Vedder, one of your long-time admirers. Very cool.

Jon Osterberg
Redmond, WA

Thanks Jon
Good ole Eddie!
Love Neil
be well

 


SECOND SONG


 

Hey now

Just listened to Second Song, sweet. Well I watched on video float through the hills. Two songs you should check out: La Honda by Scott Cooper and Pescadero by Gary Gates. If you’re missing coastal air sometime play these and of course crank it up.

Thanks
Dan

Thanks Dan
Love Neil
be well

 


SECOND SONG


 

It’s been a very long time since I’ve written directly to you my friend. I’ve been busy, you’ve been busy. Our world is literally on fire, and America is being destroyed by a madman and his mafia.

But today you released a new song called ‘Second Song,’ and after listening to it I was compelled to communicate to you just what it meant to me.

This new song is a masterpiece.

I understand that word gets tossed around a lot, but my heart was moved by your lyrics. My spirit was lifted in a most profound way, and it created a physical resonance with my spirit. Needless to say that my reaction was genuinely profound.

Your songs have often inspired me in so many different ways, but you have created something truly special here.

The visuals are absolutely spot on for this song as well. I have never really liked music videos, because it feels like they rob us of our imagination. But this one was a perfect match to the lyrics and feel of the song.

I know you probably hear this all the time, but your music has been such an important part of my entire life. I have loved everything you’ve ever released over the decades. But this song feels like it captures the essence everything you have created throughout your entire career.

It feels like a cliche anymore, but Thank You Neil
Dan Swan

Hey Dan
Thanks man
Much appreciated at this point of life!
Love Neil
be well

 


DEMOCRATIC ALBUM


 

Dear Neil,

I know you are a very busy man, but do you think you might be interested in putting an album together for charity (or other causes like the Democratic Party …)? I was thinking of maybe Patti Smith, Bob Dylan, Roger Waters and any other person of your choice, say, Bruce Springsteen or Paul McCartney, and The Rolling Stones???? You Could call it the Keep Freedom Alive Gig, seriously, right?

I actually was just interested in you doing a duet album with Patti Smith & Crazy Horse & Lenny Kaye, and getting Poncho out of Retirement, but I'm getting carried away again....

I love your Music & your Causes and Your belief in American Farms & Environmental Issues…. We have to move Forward, before its too Late! Freedom LIVES!

love, Marc & Stacey B.

LOVE to you!
I am with you.
Thanks
Love Neil
be well

 


SECOND SONG


 

Hello there,

Loved Rick the Bass Player's footage for the Second Song video as well as the song itself ... Perfect match!

My wife and I celebrated our anniversary last year with a trip to San Francisco. Drove north through wine country one day and followed the coast south the next day on a journey through your past. Stopped in Santa Cruz but The Catalyst was closed. Had lunch and bought a few records before heading north on 9 to Woodside and then on to Redwood City. Stopping here and there to shop and soak it all in. As a 12-year-old growing up in Minnesota, the inner gatefold of Harvest might as well have been from another planet and that day those golden fields were all around us.

We attended the Milwaukee show last year and were thrilled that a couple of songs from the show made the live album.

Looking forward to the new record!
Rick in FL

Thanks Rick!
Love Neil
be well

 


SECOND SONG


 

Hi Neil,

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE 'Second Song.’ The music is so peaceful and the lyrics so thoughtful. I am always on board for a scenic car ride. The countryside is beautiful.
You asked me to list actions by Trump that I like and dislike.
Things I like:
Border Security
Drug Trafficking reduction
More benefits for veterans
Efforts to eliminate fraud
Government efficiency. It is sad that people have lost jobs, but I believe the government should be run efficiently like a business has to in order to remain open. Too often I have heard you can't get fired from a government job no matter how poor the performance. I like retention and promotions based on merit.
Things I don't like:
Insulting words to people
Rollback of environmental protection policies
Reduction of Federal Wildlife restrictions.

Regarding the war with Iran, I believe Iran's ultimate goal was to destroy the US with a nuclear weapon. It has been a talking point in many campaigns. I am glad the threat has been mitigated. I don't think it will ever be gone.

Thank you for asking my opinion.
Excited to hear the rest of the new album.

Love
Mary Jane

Thanks Mary Jane
Love reading that….
RE TRUMP…..Think there are better ways to accomplish the good goals than the ones chosen by him.
Love Neil
be well

 


SECOND SONG


 

Second Song:

Shakey, Have to say, your new song brought a few tears to me. Just beautiful, with lyrics that help one think about better days, not only in the past but with lively hope for the future. Rick’s ranch film really complements it quite well.

All the best to you and your family!
You devoted listener; J

Hey J!!
Thanks
Love Neil
be well

 


4 WAY STREET


 

“Hey Neil,
Is a HRA version of 4 Way Street available yet? If not, any idea when?
Cheers Stringman”

“Wondering what HRA is Stringman?
Hi Res?
I will check on that album and see if csny want to do it.
Love
be well
Neil"

Yes HRA stands for High Resolution Audio, You basically made it palatable for fans when you created Pono.

I buy all my music in HRA as I only have one house and my "record" collection would take up about 3–4 houses.

Many, many years ago you mentioned in NYA that John Hanlon was working on it (i.e. the 24/192 version of 4 Way Street).

4 Way Street is a work of art and deserves to be HRA’ed.

Cheers
Stringman

P.S. Love your work.
P.P.S. 2nd Songs is excellent and growing on me

Thanks Stringman
Love Neil
be well

 


SECOND SONG


 

Second Song! Sounds good to me, excited to hear the rest! Thank you Neil.

Noah

Thanks Noah
Love Neil
be well

 


MILLIONS OF ME


 

Hi Neil,

I was driving through Topanga last week listenin to' On the Beach' and I was flooded with my wonderful memories and emotions on what you and your music has meant to me since I was 13. Now, I'm 73 and I still remember like it was yesterday when I was given a copy of Clancy signed by you "Thanks millions from the millions of Buffalo Springfield" at your manager’s office. Our paths have crossed a few times through my Uncle David M. I don't think you ever knew how much meeting you meant to me. You have my influenced me in so many ways from your music, philosophy, politics , honesty and by making choices that served my creativity and soul. I'm looking forward to "Second Song.” Keep on the rockin' in the Free World.

Thanks millions from the millions of me.
Best, Bruce C.

Thanks Bruce!
Love Neil
be well

 


SECOND SONG


 

That’s an incredible trip down (and down) the hills and forest lane. It is mesmerizing (on re-watch) with its length, critters, descent and beautiful scenery and we still don’t get there. Well done, Rick. It’s a great idea to record whole, at the time, routine scenes/trips. I did that shooting slides on my 20-minute walk to high school; must look those up. Thanks for showing.

Sandy
Lake of Bays, Ontario

Thanks Sandy
Enjoy the music
Love Neil
be well

 


I WILL TRY


 

Hi Neil,

I have been a big fan of yours since 1969, I have bought every one of your albums. My first live concert was 1974 the CSNY tour at Wembley, I was in heaven, Don't be Denied was amazing. I have seen you live many times, the last one was at Hyde park July of 2025. Every day I play some of your songs, you are amazing please try to come to the UK again.

love from paul
York UK

I will try my friend
Thanks
Love Neil

 


HEART OF GOLD BRIDGE SERIES


 

I think you should do companion releases to your Heart of Gold Bridge School series where you record a cover of each artist that contributes to it.

Wild idea!!
Thanks
Love Neil
be well

 


SMELL THE HORSE


 

Hi Neil,

This is probably the goofiest letter you’ll get today. I love my recent purchase of a Crazy Horse Love Earth black t-shirt with a white horse on the front. But don’t spook the horse or you will smell the horse on this one. For some reason when the white horse decal gets wet the odor is like a filthy barn. It funny I like it for some reason this way.

Sincerely,
Peter Allison
Chicago

Never knew that Peter
Thanks
Love Neil
be well

 


ALL ROADS LEAD HOME


 

Hi Neil,

I really enjoy listening to the 2023 album 'All Roads Lead Home' every once in a while. What a great collection of solo songs backed by some incredible artists!

Who proposed that the title would be Molina Talbot Lofgren Young All Roads Lead Home?
Was the title Crazy Horse and Young ever considered?

Gareth

Don't know Gareth
Thanks
Love Neil
be well

Letters 08/07/2026
for the TIMES-CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted by NYA Members for Neil
THANKS FOR THESE LETTERS FOLKS!
BE WELL
LOVE NEIL

 


OUTTAKES


 

Hi Neil,

Just to say top work on As Time Explodes—great sound—and Corduroy Plants. NYA really knocked it out of the park with those two. What would really finish things off nicely would be getting the outtakes you mentioned. Life is short, just put them up on NYA. Pretty please!

Love,
Dave.

We’ll check that out Dave

 

Thanks
Be well
LOVE neil

 


YOU ARE WELCOME


 

Dear Neil and Neeks—

Thank you!
Omar

 

You got it O
Thanks
Be well
LOVE neil

 


THANKS CHEYENNE


 

Dear Mr. Young,

My name is Cheyenne, and I am a developmental services worker in Ontario. I never imagined I would be writing a letter like this, but after months on strike, I felt compelled to reach out.

My coworkers and I support adults with developmental disabilities. We don't do this work for recognition or wealth—we do it because we genuinely care about the people we support. They are part of our lives, and being away from them has been one of the hardest parts of this strike.
As the weeks have turned into months, many of us have struggled to pay rent, buy groceries, and keep up with everyday bills. Despite that, we continue because we believe this fight is about more than ourselves. It's about ensuring that the people who dedicate their lives to caring for vulnerable members of our communities are treated with dignity and respect.

I know you've spent decades standing up for people and using your voice to bring attention to causes that matter. That's why I'm reaching out. If you would be willing to acknowledge our strike, share our story, or offer a message of support, it would mean more than I can express. Even a few words from someone whose voice carries as much respect as yours could help shine a light on what hundreds of workers and the people we support are going through.
Our fight isn't just about wages. It's about protecting quality care, recognizing the value of care work, and making sure developmental services remain a career people can afford to stay in.
Whether or not you're able to help, thank you for taking the time to read this letter. Thank you for a lifetime of speaking up for ordinary people and reminding us that some things are worth fighting for.

With gratitude,
Cheyenne
Ontario, Canada

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of 7/31/2026 for the TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks folks for writing in….Some very thoughtful pieces here…Lots of words from oldsters like myself! Hoping you are ALL WELL
LOVE
Neil
 


76


 

Dear Neil, I am 75 now, but when you were part of CSNY, you spoke for many of us. I was 18 in 1969, and I think about myself then, trying to navigate a complicated world.

I just listened to some of your and CSNY songs. I almost got teary-eyed, thinking about everything that was going on. Neil, thank you so much for providing the voice and vehicle that enabled me to reconnect to my early 1970s self. Listening to your songs brought me back to the person I used to be. Hopefully, it will stay integrated into my present and future self as I convey myself to my grandchildren.

 

Thanks!
Yes! The grandchildren. I love my grandchildren too!
Love
be well
Neil

 


OLD MAN


 

Hello there.

I just listened to you singing “Old Man” with Jimmy Fallon and realized what a fantastic album Harvest could be re-recorded with 80-year-old Neil singing on all exactly the same tracks. No voice has aged more beautifully. Just a thought wrapped into a wish.

Love always. Johan.

 

Thanks Johan
Quite a thought.
Love
be well
Neil

Click Here To Read More.


Letters from the week of
7/24/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
OK FOLKS!
Just opening up a new batch of letters!
Thanks for sending them in!
LOVE Neil


FARM AID SUPPORT


Hi Mr. Young!

I just wanted to drop a note to let you know how excited I am to have purchased tickets to Farm Aid for the third year in a row. I can't wait!

Each time you tour I make sure to get tickets to at least one show and sometimes more!

When you are not touring, I found three tribute bands who fill my Neil young needs until your next tour. Decade is from South Jersey, Sugar Mountain is from North Jersey and Good Rush is from somewhere in NJ. The lead singers of these bands are amazing!

I appreciate after all these years you still tour! Thank you for all you do for Farm Aid!

Thank you!
Gail Johnson

Gail
See you there! Thanks for supporting FARMAID
LOVE
Neil


SUGAR MOUNTAIN / SCOTLAND


Hi Neil I’m a massive fan and I really love your music. Just want to send you a message on how much your music helps me and makes me feel good. You’re a really big inspiration on me. I’m 16 and I’m a guitar player myself. I love playing your music on guitar too. My favourite song of yours to listen to and play on guitar is Sugar Mountain and a few more. It’s hard to pick a favourite since I love every one of your songs haha.

I live in Scotland and I was going to be seeing you in Bellahouston Park. I was gutted when you cancelled, but I understand and I want to say I hope that you’re doing well and thanks for everything you have done for me. Kieran

Kieran
Thanks for writing in to tell me that
LOVE
Neil


RAZOR LOVE


I just wanted to say thank you. I used Razor Love on an Instagram reel of an unexpected encounter with an iguana that climbed onto my paddleboard in Mexico. Somehow that little moment has grown to nearly 45 million views, and your song has become part of why it resonates with so many people. I thought you might appreciate knowing your music has touched millions of people through this unexpected story.

Whitni Nelson

Wow!
Thanks Whitni
LOVE
Neil


SONGS ARE LOVE


Neil,

Songs are love. Thank you so much.

James

Thanks James
LOVE
Neil


FIRST TAKE


You’ve spent decades and a fortune preserving sound as precisely as possible, every take, the whole archive. Yet you’ve always held that the truth lives in the first take, in what can only happen once. Of all the sounds you never recorded, the ones that existed for a moment and were then gone, which is the one you still hear?

Best regards, Nils

I still hear them all Nils.
Can’t pick one.
LOVE
Neil


EVERYBODY’S ROCKIN


Hey Neil!

Just wanted to say that “Everybody’s Rockin” was part of the soundtrack that accompanied our cruise when driving in a recent classic car parade. I drove my 1958 Chevy Impala (restored to recreate Ron Howard’s vehicle driven by “Toad” in “American Graffiti”) and your album fit right in and took us all back to a time we weren’t even alive for.

Love that record and it deserves more appreciation, and any of the young guys and gals out there who aren’t already familiar with Wolfman Jack, get on YouTube and listen to his old broadcasts. This is a case where technology can actually be useful and beneficial!

Love and peace!
Dan

Thanks Dan!
Everybody’s rockin!
LOVE
Neil


SHOTS


Neil,

Any chance that you may revisit Shots, and perhaps perform that tune again? It’s a hell of a song, and it looks like it’s been close to 50 years since you played it. Sending lots of love and peace your way.

Richard

Richard. That might be a good idea.
I’ll check it out with the guys
LOVE
Neil


SHARIN’ A SONG


Hello Neil,

I am a 61-year-old machinist with two kids and I wrote a song about preserving democracy for all of our children.

It would be great if you could share my song. Thanks so much for anything you can do!

-Daniel Wasik

“Speak Up For Our Children (No Kings In America)”

Thanks Daniel
Peace be with you
LOVE
Neil


HIT 39 IDEA


Hi Neil—

Would you consider adding a bonus disk to "Hit 39" that contains the unedited sessions from House of David, Nashville in early 1983? Those would be the "Original Old Ways Sessions.” I know you had a cold around then, but it would still be a great disk that would set up a wonderful contrast and show the evolution of "Old Ways.”

Omar

I’ll check it out OMAR
Thanks for the idea!
LOVE
Neil


LYME DISEASE


Hi Neil~

Hope all is well. Learning to cope with ‘one’ of the wars on our own soil, ticks. I have Lyme, Alpha-gal Syndrome (AGS) and other co-infections. Farmers and hikers are finding ‘tick boxes.’ Ticks were bio-engineered as ‘passive’ warfare, way back. At this juncture, the CDC reports that up to one in four individuals in the high risk states, Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee and Virginia have developed the Alpha-gal Syndrome, a potentially fatal allergy to mammalian meat and their byproducts. It is life-changing and UNDER-REPORTED in the rest of the states. Needless to say, I am feeling angry and betrayed. Where are those tick boxes coming from and why? Like you, I channel that emotion into action. I have recently become involved with a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness, educating and creating safe eating experiences for those with AGS.

Last year, when I was diagnosed, the medical doctors had little to no guidance. They referred me to Google. I did and was guided to Functional Medicine (TY), currently I am attempting to blend the two, taking it one day at a time and learning A LOT … Thankful for my Mindfulness practice and the benefits, love of cooking and desire to assist others. Music is one of my healing tools, I appreciate you.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my words.

Much love,
Linda

Linda
Sorry to hear this news.Tick Boxes is a concept that blows my mind.
Love to you
Neil


STILLS YOUNG BAND


Hey Neil,

Hope you are (doing) well.

Any chance of releasing (live) songs from the 1976 Stills–Young Band tour? Or from the recording sessions?

I was just listening to an INSANE concert recorded on July 7, 1976 in Providence, Rhode Island (taped on cassettes). It is on YouTube … but should be available to the whole world in a better format.

Can you make it happen?
Wishing you and your loved ones all the best.

Joe Sielias
Salt Spring Island
Canada

Thanks Joe
I’ll take a look….
LOVE
Neil


MUSIC IN ONTARIO


Even though I have written quite a number of songs (just tonight, par exemple), I don’t tend to remember them. It can be pleasantly surprising to listen to a recording or read a lyric scrap and sense: oh, I can feel that there; that is a good one. So even if they reside dormant in my own archive, I feel there has been a fine and worthwhile perception/creation. When I pick up the guitar, it’s your songs I tend to play/sing. They are the ones I have memorized. Either way, being in Music is a blessing.

Cheers from a helluva summer (lucky for a lake and public beach).
Sandy, Lake of Bays, Ontario

Best to you Sandy
Enjoy Ontario in our home and native land!
LOVE
Neil


BOBBY KNOTKOFF


Hey Neil. Let me add to the chorus of thank yous, for everything. There were some months when I played Winterlong over and over. It really helped.

I have been listening a lot to the second Karen Dalton album. Bobby Knotkoff’s fiddle on two songs is transcendent—as it is on Running Dry (that song is so unique). (I met him at a party once in Santa Fe. He was pretty far out there, bouncing from room to room playing along with whatever record was on, and then playing with some friends. It was great.) His fiddling cuts real deep, but I get why it would not have worked for Crazy Horse. Anyhow, I see that he died some years ago; any thoughts or memories of the fellow would be appreciated.

I just remember his wonderful energy!
LOVE
Neil
Be well


NYA V4 AND BEYOND


NYA Volume 4 & Beyond:

Dear Shakey;
Please don’t skimp on NYA V4, just limit it to 1988–1999 then V5 from 2000–End. I really enjoyed all of the NYA films in NYA V3. I believe the films tell an important part of the NYA legacy. Or just create a limited edition separate film set for the final two periods, since 1988–Present includes like twenty + films.

Thanks, All The Best; J

J
We are deeply into V4 and will not skimp. Found a great unreleased acoustic album, among other things!
LOVE
Neil
be well


ROXY 23


Hi Neil,

Will we be seeing or hearing the Roxy shows from 9/20 & 9/21/2023?

I would love to see them offered on the Bridge School Movietone page. Is Daryl doing anything special with these shows? I would love to see her do some special behind the scenes commentary too?

Peace & love to you and your family
JR

Thanks JR
That is coming along….but it is volume 5!
LOVE
Neil


OPEN MIKE


Played 15th anniversary open mic night at Liverpool Cavern Pub and was amazing ... didn't play second song with nod to Neil but here it is ♥️

Thanks
LOVE NEIL
be well


MUSIC IN ONTARIO


Two Quick Questions

Evening,

Hope all is well with everyone at NYA.

These may be questions that Lookout and Mr Gironda are better placed to answer; I don't know. Either way, I'm keen to hear more.

#1 - what's the slated release date for Second Songs? Have Reprise pushed back a bit to give As Time Explodes some more room to breathe? Second Songs to have drifted a little maybe?

RELEASE IN SEPTEMBER

#2 - if you & Chrome Hearts play a warm-up (or two) ahead of Farm Aid, any idea when the date/s might be made public & will there be an NYA presale?

Thanks all,
Mark

Norfolk, UK

Mark
We will be playing….I hope a few shows with Willie
LOVE Neil
be well


Letters from the week of
7/17/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
THANKS FOR THESE LETTERS EVERYONE
I READ EVERY ONE AND ANSWER THEM ALL MYSELF.
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL


Father Paul


Hello Mr. Young,

My name is Fr. Paul Christy. I am a Greek Orthodox priest in Raleigh, NC. I just heard an interview with you and learned that you support research for cerebral palsy.
I have a son William (33) who has CP. He loves your music and so do I.

Thank you so much, I virtually never hear of anyone championing assistance for this affliction.
The Lord keep you.

Dear Fr. Christy
Those with CP have a unique view of life. My son is a wonderful man.
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


UK GREEDY HANED APPAREL


Hi, can we please get the apparel in the UK Greedy Hand Store to match what is for sale in the USA store?

Andrew
Unfortunately it is not financially feasible for us to manufacture the entire line of t-shirts in the UK to match what we sell in the US store.
To try to compensate for that, we do offer free shipping internationally from the US store with orders over $100.
Thanks
NYA Management


CSNY 1970


Hi, wondering whether there's still a plan to release a film of the CSNY 1970 Fillmore East concerts?

I remember reading a few years back that some work has been done on the film.
Thank you,

Galina

I will check Galina.
it may be coming out with a CSN release.
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


NOW AND FOREVER


To Neil Young and all who support him!

I'm sitting on the shores of the North Channel of Georgian Bay in Northern Ontario and as I have always done in my adult years, I turn to Neil Young and his music—there is always a song and a melody to make life better or to amplify the good and soothe the change and the times when life hits hard.

I know there is a slim chance that this will reach him, but on this early evening night and for some strange reason, I felt compelled to offer my thanks for how his songs, music and words always make life better. All my life he has been there—early love at college, holding my babies, fishing with best friends, campfires, motorcycle trips; where Blind River, Wawa Winnipeg become immortalized and real—thank you so much—I hope it means something.

Take Care for now and forever
Mark Shoreman

Thanks Mike
It has been quite a ride!
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


2025 OUTTAKES


Hey Neil,

Any timeline for the outtakes for the 2025 tour? Been spinning As Time Explodes and loved Corduroy Plants, but itching for more!

I have been looking at the list of outtakes and we might do it. Just trying to figure out how.
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


TOPANGA ALL STARS


Hey buddy, long time no talk. I recently ran across a "Topanga All Stars" t-shirt. I'm sure that brings back some memories for you! Happy to send it along to you. What size?

Texas Dave

XL Dave!
How cool!!!
Thanks
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


APP PROBLEM


Hello,

Why don’t some of the outtakes in the Archive series not play on the app? For instance, Barefoot Floors does not work. It’s not even in the outtakes filing cabinet.

Thank you,
Jason

So noted. We will fix.
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


OLD MAN IN OUTER SPACE


Hello Mr. Young,

In my high school English class, in 1994, we were asked to bring in a song that had good lyrics. Most kids brought in popular music of the time, songs on MTV or whatever. I brought in "Old Man,” taped from my father's vinyl copy of Harvest. I put the tape in a portable cassette deck, stood up in front of the class and played the song. Then tried to explain what it means.

The teacher was like, "I love Neil Young.” All the kids sat there and looked at me like I was from outer space.

Thanks so much for your music over the years.

Chris

Chris
i hope this get to you from outer space!
Thanks for being there!
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


GOOD FORTUNE GOING FORWARD


Hi Neil,

I'm a 19-year-old kid, raised in England, live in Australia, a few years younger than yourself. I'm a musician myself, playing little gigs every weekend around Melbourne/Naarm, singing and playing guitar. Over the last six months I've become a huge fan of your work, from Buffalo Springfield, CSNY, and of course, your solo work. I have been a huge Oasis fan for years, and have always heard Noel Gallagher say you're the dog's bollocks. Who the fuck is this Neil Young guy? Turns out you're not too bad. I'm trying to think of a unique way to compliment you, but there's no other way to say that you are fucking brilliant mate. After getting into your music, I've found myself discovering the Laurel Canyon music scene, which was full of outstanding songwriters. Joni Mitchell likewise blows me away. I've been writing songs since I was a little scrawny teenage boy, and have always liked to think I'm getting better at it, but you've elevated me to higher levels. Trying out new chords, open/alternate tunings, lyrical concepts, stream-of-consciousness writing. I also think your outspokenness and political opinions are excellent. As soon as I saw a video of you wearing an Aboriginal Australian shirt, I knew you were a cool guy. This may seem over-complimentary, so maybe I will find something to diss about you. Hair too long? No…. Sideburns too long? Maybe....

I hate to sound like an opportunist, but I would love to show you some of my songs one time. Saying that, I'd be happy showing my songs to anyone, Neil Young or the old drunk next door. If you ever fancy a cool young fella in your band, you just let me know, I'll do it for free if need be. Just a case of beer every night will suffice, for post-show of course.

I do hope you see this.

Cheers mate,
Freddie

Hey Freddie my friend!
Yer a few years too late to join the band but good fortune to you going forward!
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


SWITZERLAND


Hey Neil,

Sitting here in Locarno, Switzerland with some dear friends. Thanks for getting us over here. Wishing you were here.

Curt Wankier

Thanks to you Curt….and your friends!
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


LOOKIN FOR A LEADER


Dear Niko and Neil—

I would lobby for the Volume Dealers to take another crack at re-mixing Looking For A Leader from LWW Vol. 2. I'm wondering why the hard edit? Did it not work to keep the band in and just mix out "Obama" and "Colin Powell”? It's a great song, Neil. And I feel the message, but the hard edit really takes me out of the feeling.

Love, Omar

Thanks OMAR I will tell Niko. It was my idea.
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


HELPLESS / THE LAST WALTZ


Hi Neil,

Not sure where to start … I have so much to say to you as you changed my life in so many aspects.

Short introduce: my name is Krzysiek (Chris), I’m turning 40 today (it’s already 12 July in my place), and I’m from Poland. I believe you have never been here, but thanks to my great wife I had a chance to hear and see you (and Bob D.) in London in 2019.

I believe it was 2017 when I found out who Neil Young actually is. It was the time when I was discovering Bob Dylan, and my colleague told me about his cooperation with The Band. Somehow I found this piece of art, “The Last Waltz,” and then … boom! “They got it now, Robbie” … The way you performed “Helpless” was just … just can’t find the word. Bob Dylan had to wait for his moment.

Since that time I spent hundreds of hours listening to you, reading about you, thinking about you and … talking about you with my friend who I met thanks to you.…

This mail is just to say: thank you. Thank you for the music you gave to the people. Thank you for the words you gave to people. Thank you for kindness and truth you gave to people. Thank you for being the Neil Young through all these years, so guys like me still can learn … learn what? Just the foundations of being human.

Peace.
Krzysiek Musial

Peace to you Krzyiek
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


PANTS CORDROY


Hello Neil, Watching your new movie Pants Cordroy or whatever 🥰 Bergen was special Cortez, and the whole concert 🇧🇻

Thanks
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


FREE RIDE


Hola Neil. Tell D. that this old man has added "free ride" to his yoga routine. Thank you, ma'am. Also, I told Lefsitz to listen to your tunes some more. He says it's hard to believe now.

Peace,
plain old bob

Thanks bob
What does “Free Ride” mean?
LOVE
Be Well
Neil and Daryl


BOOKER T AND THE MGS
CHANGE YOUR MIND


Good Sunday Morning to you Neil

Thank you for the Zoom and updates, especially re: 1993 Booker T and MG's tour and your imminent plans—Good news.

Today its the 12th of July … 33 years (almost a record) to the day since You called out off mic in Glasgow, “let's do it" and played in public for the first time the masterpiece that is “Change Your Mind,” starting with the swirling, shimmering Booker T. organ and building, this was a true moment. Indebted again, Neil.

So some very simple questions please....

Have you listened to that debut performance? If not Please do.

Is this version included in the Booker T & MG's 2LP set?

if not Glasgow, which performance is?

Was the song written pre the tour? Or on tour in soundchecks and in your time?

Could you tease us for the MG's Live album with a soundcheck workout of “Change Your Mind,” maybe from Glasgow to whet the appetite please? Everyone likes a good tease in life, Neil.

Thanks you for all Neil … I / We are grateful

Adrian
Summer in Barnet

P.S. A week after Glasgow, in Bad Mergentheim Germany, the night before the show there, I briefly interrupted your bar meal asking you what this new great song was called. Resplendent in your Fishbone t-shirt, you turned to Duck Dunn and asked him, "What are we calling that new one?"

Duck: "You said, ‘Change Your Mind,’ Neil"
Classic!

Adrian
I listened to it and - decided not to include it on the album.
Thanks
LOVE Neil
Be Well


CONTINUING THE NAME


Hi Neil, hope all is good.

I only wanted to share you a story that my Canadian wife was pregnant and we learned in fall 2023 that we were expecting a boy. I had always been suggesting that our baby would be named Neil. That same evening, when we heard the news on our way home here in Helsinki, fall 2024, was harvest moon. We decided to name the baby Neil. There was no choice.

Neil is doing well. He is going to daycare and supporting both Canada and Finland in hockey and also in football (soccer). He likes your music—and Raffi’s too.

Thank you for everything.

LOVE to you and your wife!
Be Well
Neil


A RUSTED THOUGHT


Hi Neil, I’m a professor of philosophy of Law of Turin University and I work on legal clinics in Disability. I’m just now in Lucca (I booked for your concert as usual and anyway I’m here with some affecting memory).

Some people in Italy are waiting for you when it will be possible … Fortunately I was in Paris last year!

A great rusted thought from Italy!
Paolo

Paolo
Thanks
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


A BRIGHT POINT


Hi Neil,

Your music has been a bright point in my life, helping me through some dark times. Thank you.

Today I turn 29, and I’ve always wondered about your taste in movies. What films or filmmakers have stayed with you over the years?

A thousands thanks,
Connor

Connor,
Lately I have been watching a lot of Martin Scorsese.
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


PATRON ZOOM


Hi Neil, Daryl and All at NYA,

Well, I made the Zoom meeting last week. It was great.

I could not see you because I got in late with a glitchy confuser, Zoom throws it off sometimes, but that's OK. You sounded terrific, lighthearted and laughing. You answered questions that people asked, some that I wanted to ask. In fact, without a visual, I think I learned more, because I was forced to listen and really hear what you were saying.

I still have some old Lionel Train stuff that a friend doesn't want. Engines, cars, trestles, etc. If you are interested, you know how to find me.

Peace, Love and Music!

-Mudflow Mike, otherwise known as Phrog

Phrog
Thanks man
Take care
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


Letters from the week of
7/10/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks for writing in folks!
I read these every week and answer them myself, unless otherwise noted.
LOVE
Neil


THEODORE ROOSEVELT PRESIDENTIAL


Hello Neil,

Fargo Jason here and close to home is the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt presidential library out in the badlands area.

They had the by-invitation-only open house a couple of days ago, which was attended by some donors that I know as well as Doug Burgum, his kids my wife taught about 25 years ago here in Fargo, Doug went on to become governor of North Dakota and now is a Trump lackey.

Anyway, as I reflected on an article about Burgum attending the opening on a horse (giving that Roughrider vibe) and today being the 4th of July, I was wondering about your interest in the TR presidential library, and if you were to come up to see it, what would you arrive in or on?

Seems like you would be a Teddy supporter.

Thanks Fargo
I will see it when i am in that area and get a chance. Sounds interesting.
Love Neil
Be Well


MUSIC MADE LIFE BETTER


I just want to tell Neil thank you. My late father and I would play his music every day! We bonded over the time and my dad taught me what Neil was singing about. My ol’ man played a mean harmonica and would often play with just his spirit as we were eating salsa and chips from our garden. My dad laid block for 43 years and found his happy place in our log cabin in north Central Minnesota. We used to fish almost every day, and every single night jam to Neil Young. Neil still brings peace to this 40-year-old veteran's heart! Thank you Neil! I wish I could shake your hand someday, but I certainly understand how time works! I can't thank you enough for all of the great songs and creating songs that my father and I can BOTH relate to. I can't hear any of your songs without thinking of my ol’ man! I still listen to your music every day. Even when I was in Iraq, your music helped me through dark times and still helps work through the recent loss of my dad. Thank you for sharing your talent with the world, sir! You mean very much to myself and my family. When we received the news that Dad wasn't going to make it through the cancer, I sat there like a deer in the headlights and didn't know what to do or say. I was 39 years old and a hardened combat veteran, and had no clue what to do! The only thing that came to my mind was "Harvest Moon!” It brought a calm to that hospital room! That was November of 2024. Because of your music, I was able to see peace in my father in his final days! Thank you! I really hope Neil has a chance to read this! My name is Pat. I truly appreciate your music and I am grateful for how your music made life better with my father! God bless!

DEAR PAT
Thanks very very much!
PEACE
Love Neil
Be Well


CLIMATE CHANGE EVENT


I enjoy the climate change content on the Archives site. Following is a crazy event that just occurred in Northwest, Ohio.

We must act together against Climate Change.
I am with you.
WE need real leadership. It’s up to us to elect a real leader.
Love Neil
Be Well


AFTER MY OWN HEART


Hi Neil.

Love your music.

My friend's husband died. He was a big Lionel train collector/dealer and his wife is selling his collection. I recall hearing that you were a big fan of trains as well.
For What It's Worth :) Here's the auction link.

Peace to you.
Tom

Thanks Tom!
PEACE
Beautiful collection!
A man after my own heart.
Love Neil
Be Well


FAREWELL TOUR


Hi Neil, how are you? Hope you are in reasonable good health?! Sorry I missed you in concert recently in The Netherlands. You had to skip the European Tour. I am fan of you since After the Gold Rush. You are the sunshine, the comfort and the solace in my life. Together with Emmylou Harris, who just gave the best of a Farewell tour in Amsterdam. She ended the show with Long may you run. Double bull’s eye.
Stay safe,
Roger van Boxtel (72)

Hi Roger
I love Emmy Lou too!
Love Neil
Be Well


LADYSMITH BC


Hey Neil

Katie from Ladysmith BC here.

Curious…. Why did the Goo Goo Dolls play your music in the July 4 festivities? I thought you had decided that “they” (American) weren’t allowed to play your music.

ps. I know your auntie lives here and has the local tow truck company! Your uncle towed my vehicle from Cow Lake to Ladysmith! And thanks for bailing on the concert in the early 2000s sponsored by Randy B … I was working at the mill in Crofton at the time.

Hope you and the family are well.
Kind regards
Katie

Katie
I don’t know what you are talking about!
Love Neil
Be Well


A GAMER


Hello Neil!

How are you? Hope all is well.
Do play any video games at all? I feel like you would be a gamer :)

Keep Rockin!
-Liam

Liam
NOPE
Love Neil
Be Well


MVTO


Dear Neil,

If I may have the honor of addressing this to both you and Daryl concerning your recent free gift of the “Corduroy Pants” film to, well everyone. I am a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Turtle Clan, Concharty Town. We have one word which I would like you to have: “MVTO” meaning Thank You, That’s the Right Stuff, Great, awesome, etc. The art piece as a whole Mvto, and specifically the Cortez the Killer segment, the music, archival film placements made me feel unforgotten. We were removed from our homelands as I am positive you are painfully aware of as well, and for your and the band’s emotion put into the piece MVTO!!! I simply have the exact word to express my gratitude, MVTO! Feel free to use this word and all whom may read this missive if at all. It gets pretty lonesome out here on the Rez at times but you’ve been a constant companion. Give Daryl the word.

Peace, Love and MVTO!!!
here’s where you may hear the pronunciation.

Sincerely,
jake

MVTO Jake!
Love Neil and Daryl
Be Well


EPILEPSY


Dear Mr. Young,

My name is Susie Walch. I'm writing a memoir about my own lifelong experience with epilepsy, something I lived with, mostly undiagnosed and unexplained, from birth until I was thirty-five. I grew up in rural Kentucky. No one told me; I did not know I had epilepsy until I was fifteen years old and had a grand mal seizure in high school, and even then, it took decades more before I fully understood everything that had happened to me and why.

I'm reaching out because your own openness about living with epilepsy has meant a great deal to me while writing this book. Knowing that someone could carry the same condition and still build a lasting body of work, still keep showing up to make music decade after decade, has been a real source of comfort.

In the closing pages of my book, I've written a short passage inspired by the image at the heart of "Harvest Moon," two people who have been together long enough to choose each other again, deliberately, under a particular kind of light. I have not quoted any of your lyrics and would never do so without permission. I simply wanted the image itself, and I wanted you to know it's there, and why.

Thank you for the music, and for being open about something that isn't always easy to be open about. It has mattered more than you probably know.

And, thank you for your political beliefs. I am a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer and deeply share what you are standing up for.

With gratitude,
Susie Walch

Thanks Susie
Epilepsy teaches us a lot.
Love Neil
Be Well


IT’S BEEN A MINUTE


LET 'S ROLL....FOREVER

Dear Neil,

In the aftermath of 9/11, after hearing "Let's Roll" for the first time, I applied and was hired as a Federal Air Marshal. Twenty-six years later, the best part of my retirement (in 2017) has been having the freedom to travel to even more shows—too many to list here.

The reason of this letter is to thank you. Between Queens, NY, Jones Beach, NY, and Charlotte, NC, from the past two tours, I shared your music and concert experience with my 85-year-old father as well as my 15-year-old son and all of them in between.

For me, it all started at the RPI Field House outside Albany, NY, in 1991—Keep On Rockin' In The Free World!!!!!

Thank you and we'd love to see you down in South Florida again—it’s been a minute.

Warmest regards,
Mark

Mark
Thanks
Love Neil
Be Well


OLD BLACK


Hey Neil,

I was thinking ... you just wrote a great song about a bus, how about writing a song about your road warrior companion Old Black ... When he's "turned on" he has a lot to say ... Just a thought. Much love and harmony to you and Daryl.

Live2Rust

Thanks
Love Neil
Be Well


THIRTY YEARS


It's been 30 years since Broken Arrow (album) came out. Your first without David Briggs. What are your recollections of recording that and how do you feel about that album (it's my favorite)? I was thrilled to hear Big Time and Scattered on your last tours (still waiting for Slip Away)….

Slip Away wil show up.
Thanks - LOVE
Love Neil
Be Well


RIGHTS ISSUES


Do rights issues limit your ability to share CSNY, Pearl Jam or Buffalo Springfield timeline concerts?

Thanks for everything,
Tom

Nope
They don’t!
Love Neil
Be Well


Letters from the week of
7/3/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks for the letters folks. I love to read your thoughts!
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


OLD MERCH


This is going to sounds crazy, but do you guys ever re-release merch designs? My mom passed away recently and she had this Neil Young shirt from the World Tour in 1993 from Rapid City SD. She had always worn it and I would steal it from her closet in high school and college. She wore it so much there are holes that she tried to sew up. I have looked on Etsy, eBay, etc for a replacement but I don’t want a copy of the print on a regular Gildan shirt from a random dude. I know this is such a long shot but here’s to hoping!

We will look and see if it is available.
Love Neil
be well


DIVESTING FROM CORPORATE PIGS


I want to thank you for divesting from these corporate pigs. Have you heard of resist and unsubscribe? This is a movement I have joined! Excited for more music from you this years and into the future!

Thanks
We do what we can to hurt these corporation who are hurting us.
Love Neil
be well


GIFTS TO THE WORLD


Thank you, Neil, for your amazing catalogue of music! I keep discovering new songs that really reach me, like one jewel after another. Your CDs have been playing in my car back and forth to work in the Finger Lakes, non-stop.
Thanks for sharing your gifts with the world!
Nancy

Thanks to you Nancy!
LOVE Neil
be well


LET’S IMPEACH THE PRESIDENT


Please re-record "Let's Impeach the President" with Trump in mind.
Thank You,
You're the best!

It is on the LWW 2026
Check P 1 of the Times Contrarian
Love
Be well
Neil


CORDUROY PLANTS
AS TIME EXPLODES


Thanks for As Time Explodes and the wonderful Corduroy Plants film.

Can we get the artwork added to the As Time Explodes album on the timeline, please? Normally when you click on the image of the front cover you get to see all the artwork, but that doesn't work for As Time Explodes.

Thanks !
We will get that art work up.
Love Neil
be well


CORDUROY PLANTS
AS TIME EXPLODES


Hi Neil,
The morning 'Corduroy Plants' appeared in the T/C, I was eagerly preparing for an excursion to the Taos, NM area. What I thought was going to be a quick skim thru the T/C to see if anything was new, turned into an hourlong delay to my travels. Once I started watching, I could not stop. Love the music and watching you and the guys play. When you responded to my last letter with 'Corduroy Plants and an old plaid shirt', I thought it was an error, kind of like my referring to 'Daddy went Walkin' as 'Daddy went Walking'. Evidently it wasn't. Did you mean to sing it like that or was it a slip up?
While in the Taos area, I visited the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Taos Pueblo. It has been inhabited for over 1000 years. I learned that their land was taken away from them in the 1900s and was given back to them by an executive order of Richard Nixon. He also authorized them to be a sovereign nation. In no way do I mean to diminish the importance of 'Ohio', but sometimes people are thought or, or remembered by the wrongs associated with them. The good they have done is either not widely known or acknowledged. He also created the EPA with an executive order.
As you no doubt are well aware of, the northern New Mexico and southern Colorado areas are very scenic. I enjoyed both the scenery and culture while I was there.
Thanks again for sharing 'Corduroy Plants' with us.
Love and best wishes,
Mary Jane

Mary Jane
I thank Nixon for his good deeds.
I condemn him for his bad ones.
Nobody is perfect.
Love Neil
be well


LONG LEGACY


Thank you Neil for a life long legacy of music and craftsmanship. You put your heart and soul into everything you do. Your work ethic and dedication is unparalleled. Shine the light.

Thanks
Love Neil
be well


CORK


Hi Neil.
Here in Ireland we had a celebratory night of your great musical life to coincide with your cancelled concert in Cork.
Thanks a heap for all you have given us.
Take care

Thanks
Hope i get back there!
Love Neil
be well


A LIST OF QUESTIONS


Dear Neil,

How does it feel to bring so much joy to so many people it must be a great high seeing the crowds and their faces does it ?

It does!

So many letters saying what a positive impact you have on their lives for the better what a buzz do you feel it.??

I feel it every day

What artist of the post -impressionist period did you like Van Gogh etc ??

Do you have a Martin D-45 or D-35 if si what do you prefer?
D 45

Do you have a regular internal combustion car if so what do you drive around in ?

Yes
1950 Plymouth for short trips.

Do you have solar and battery ? at home.

Yes Solar, batteries,

Is you health ok body told you not to tour?

Its Ok.

I'm 69 and can't imagine doing a concert tour what be bloody hard.

Any new acts you have noticed lately that tweaked your radar?

Is a Crazy Horse studio LP possible ???

What did you think of Paul's new LP about growing up in Liverpool.?

I will listen to it
Paul is great.

Is Reprise still to continue with all these mergers ??

Reprise is not involved.
Warner Muscic is not involved

Graham Nash does a few of your songs in his shows lately does that please you Country Girl and Ohio are some choice ones he does.

Cool
Thats good Thanks Graham

Anyone asked you lately to appear on their recordings ?

Is there a Canadian Songbook LP out there.

Customs immigration ever harrass you at the border checks ?

YES

Please keep recording its a good feeling to look forward to the release since 1972 for me.

All the best Windy.

Kind Regards

Steve Downunder

Thanks Steve
Love Neil
be well


CARLOS


Hey Neil,
Ever work with Carlos? Why the F not?
Time explodes!
Get ‘r done. You 2 legends. Epic.
Whatdoiknow?
Herb Hesse
Holbrook

Thanks Herb
Love Neil
be well


SOMETHING I NEED (LINK)


Hey Neil,
You need to see this and publish it in TC.

https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/political-commentary/founding-fathers-warned-america-trump-1235577524/

LAOL
Robert (Broadfoot)

Thanks Broadfoot
Love Neil
be well


Letters from the week of
6/26/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
HEY NOW!
THANKS FOR THESE LETTERS!
LOVE
BE WELL
N


WHAT GRANDPA LEFT


I really can’t afford a subscription right now but ... My stepfather just died of cancer but he was fighting frontal lobe dementia. When he was getting sick he would try to read your book to keep the cognitive parts of his brain going. He was a huge fan his whole life and he didn't have a lot of money. So what he left me was his most important things to him. One was your book and Gregg Allman’s book. Any time someone said Crosby Stills and Nash, he would add the Young forcefully lol.

Well if this gets back to you, which it probably won’t, thank you for being there in his last few months even if you didn't know you were.

HIS NAME WAS STEPHEN AND HE LOVED YOU.

John M Kendrick.
Thank you again.

John
Just to be clear, all these letters get to me.
Sorry about your dad.
PEACE
Love neil.
be well


CANADA ISSUE


I think it's very important that Canadian cultural icons like Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Margaret Atwood, and others know what the Ontario government is proposing to do by expanding Toronto's Billy Bishop Airport. This expansion will quintuple air traffic, expand runways by a kilometer, and allow jets, essentially destroying Toronto's Harbourfront, Toronto Island's beaches, the recreational boating in the inner harbour, and the views/experience from Ontario Place. It is a planning disaster on a greater scale than the Spadina Expressway.

Neil, please say something publicly if you can.

Sincerely,
Mark Gibson

Thanks Mark
I will write something about this for the CANADA page
Love neil
be well


BEND


Best to Neil. I saw him for the 61st time in Bend OR last year wonderful. Hope to see you again as we are getting old. I hope for One Last Ride..
.

Me too. We will try to be there!
Love neil
be well


BUFFALO SPRINGFIELD


Hi.

I am interested in the possibility of publishing “Baby Don’t Scold Me (stereo)” from the first stereo LP “Buffalo Springfield.”
It still is unavailable here at NYA.

Thanks for EVERYTHING!
Peace,
Bob

*Bob.
I looked and it was not there.
Mono is there and Buffalo Springfield mixed it. Not our managers, who mixed the stereo.
I recommend the mono.
Love neil
be well


NOISE AND FLOWERS MOVIE?


Hi,

I was just browsing the Movietone section of the Archives in the hopes of watching the Noise and Flowers movie but I cannot find it? I can find all the other films save this one.

I am just writing to enquire if maybe it is an issue with my browser. I am a Rust member and have full access to all the movies & videos.

Thank you very much for your time!

Kind regards,
Ryan

Ryan
It is there as a record. I am not sure there is a film.
Love neil
be well


SPRINGFIELD DEMOS


Hi Neil,

Hope you are well and enjoying time off the road and your recent dives into the Archives for Volume 4.

Speaking of the Archives …

With a group of friends we all chipped in and acquired a cassette tape from eBay quite some years ago (2010, 2011, 2012???) that contained a few songs or demos by you, possibly a rehearsal by you with Dewey Martin on drums and Bruce Palmer on bass, dated June 24, 1997.
If I remember it correctly, it may have been a cassette that was put on eBay after Dewey had passed away, maybe from his personal collection after his death.

The little black TDK cassette had a label on it that said: “Bruce, Dewey & Neil 6-24-97 Work Tape” and contained three songs, being:
1. Horseshoe Man
2. Singin’ The Blues (Marty Robbins song composed by Melvin Endsley)
3. Razor Love
Personnel (apparently):
- You yourself on electric guitar and vocals
- Dewey on drums and vocals
- Bruce on bass
The cassette appears to have been copied from a recording from a small soundboard or PA used during the rehearsal. Razor Love is recorded a bit hot and bassy, but all songs, although partially incomplete, are great renditions with electric guitar, bass and drums.

They are not completed songs, rather rehearsals with some stops explaining the breaks, chords and choruses.

We never realised or could have imagined that you had been rehearsing with Dewey and Bruce and even recorded some songs.

Do you remember anything from those rehearsals or recordings with just Dewey and Bruce in June of 1997?

Maybe you could check in the Archives to see if there are more recordings with Dewey and Bruce from around that period in 1997 and possibly even with finished songs.

Dewey and Bruce sound great and these rehearsals, although not finished songs, sound amazing and are a great indication of what could have been, so it would be great to hear some more of these sessions.

Thanks for all the music and be well!

Cornell
The Netherlands

Cornell
Interesting.
Thanks
Love neil
be well


CANARY


Hi Neil,

I hope you are well. I am wondering what other projects you have going apart from Vol IV?
Lots have been mentioned in the past (Canary, lyric book among others)

I hope your health is not stopping you from touring

Cheers
Stringman

Stringman
Canary is coming.
lyric book is in the works.
Love neil
be well


FATHERS DAY


Happy Fathers Day! I hope you are having a great day.
Peace to you.

JTR

Thanks JTR
Love neil
be well


CORDUROY PLANTS


Neil, thanks for the cool concert movie. DH and Mr. Vollick and co. do a very good job. It was especially nice to see part of the show from Dove Of Peace's point of view!

Greg

Greg, I will read that to D!
Love neil
be well


CORDUROY PLANTS


The film Corduroy Plants is an unexpected special treat.

I assume that the filmed performances are the same as the audio versions that are on As Time Explodes.

The film ends with a short tease of This Notes For You.
Can we please have the full version as an Outtake?

Thanks,
Harris

Harris
the versions are the same as the record.
Love neil
be well


CORDUROY PLANTS


Wow, that performance of Cortez in Corduroy Plants was powerful. What show was that from?

Dale from Toronto

Dale
Bergen Norway
Love neil
be well


CORDUROY PLANTS


It's been a while since a music film has had such a big impact on me as Corduroy Plants did. Big thanks to Daryl and whole film team and The Chrome Hearts!

Thanks!
Love neil
be well


DO IT!


Hi. I have a song I wrote back in 2009, the day I heard that President Obama had won the Nobel Peace Prize. It's called "Peace Prize." I hear you every time I play it. Needs some lyrics, and it'll be ready to go. Would you work with me on it?

Peace.
Bruce Kloss
Cinnaminson NJ

Do it!
LOVE
neil
be well


CORDUROY PLANTS


Daryl, Neil and all at the Archives,

It was a pleasure to wake up to Corduroy Plants. Your message is visually loud, the music clear and the song selection appropriate for today.

Peace, Love and Music!
-Mudflow Mike

Thanks Mike
Love neil
be well


CORDUROY PLANTS


Enjoyed Corduroy Plants (and an old pad shirt?!) in the Times-Contrarian. A couple of faves are Daddy Went Walkin’ and Be the Rain, songs I never thought I’d hear at a show (and was thrilled to partake in at TO last year).

Just finished Waging Heavy Peace, a swell ride to be taken on. Apt you give the reader an out to pass it off, as someone did to me years ago and I didn’t read it, with this copy showing up at a Value Village. All in good time.

I dog-eared several pages to mark highlights. I’m glad you got to: “live on a lake up there in Northern Ontario.” “How many places are there on Earth that really are healing places? There must be countless ones where people each can find their own peace. I hope you find all of yours, and I find the rest of mine.” Feeling devastated to part from Briggs, his body being all f#cked up and he advising: “make sure to have as much of you in the recording as you can.” The sound of Red Wing Blackbirds. The train way up to Churchill (which is my favourite in this country). The story of Will to Love; and that you played some drums (I’ve wondered ever since seeing the photo on the Decade jacket of you at the drums, if you ever did on a recording). Thanks for the trip and the ponder prompts.

The next book I had show up (at Currie’s Music and Antiques in Gravenhurst—I bet you’d enjoy that place, crowded with loved guitars and all manner of music goodies) was Scott Young’s “Hello Canada: The Life and Times of Foster Hewitt,” which so far is an amazing story of early commercial radio. Can still hear Foster’s voice.

Cheers,
Sandy, Lake of Bays, Ontario

Sandy
My dad’s books are cool
Love neil
be well


GEESE IN THE SKY


I saw those Geese in the Sky!

Actually, I didn’t really see them—but I felt as if they were flying above us, as if that moment could be yours too.

Last Sunday, June 21st, we celebrated the start of summer in a beautiful place: Torriglia, a small village in the countryside near Genoa, Italy. Imagine a wide green meadow surrounded by trees, with a castle in the background. Happy people were dancing in a circle, hand in hand, around flowers, smiling at the sun and the blue sky after the rain.

Love Earth
Gianluca

LOVE!
Love neil
be well


Letters from the week of
6/19/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
THANKS FOR YOUR LETTERS!
Keep ‘em comin’


80


Saw a piece about some reporter asking various celebrities to discuss the best things about turning 80. I immediately thought, “I wonder what Neil would say.…” Any response?

Eric Deaver

*Eric, I had a great answer but I forgot it! There actually are some new anti-aging breakthroughs that exist. I am looking into the possibilities.

Thanks !
LOVE
Neil*


PSYCHEDELIC PILL


PLEASE!!!!! Re-release "Psychedelic Pill" on vinyl!

NYA will check and see if Reprise can do that.
Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


HOW DID IT FEEL?


HOW DID IT FEEL?

Thanks again for reviewing the recordings of last year's Chrome Hearts tour ahead of releasing "As Time Explodes" and finding the room for the astonishing Cortez from last summer's rainy night in Bergen (it would have been a travesty if it hadn't made the cut).

As an audience member, I knew—there and then—that it was the best of the best for that song in a live environment (and pretty much any other of your songs live too). Did you sense that? Did you know how good what you'd just done was? The band must have known it was something really special….

We did feel it and knew it was special.

After all these decades of live shows and performances, do you still get that thrill and buzz and that feeling of "whoooa, we didn't just nail that, we really freakin' nailed it!”

The thrill is still here!

Those opening six minutes of extraordinarily beautiful languid, liquid solos on Old Black: you seemed locked into that special place—the spook—call it what you want—that you've often described as finding with Crazy Horse. Time stopped still as you and the band carved something genuinely unique and magnificent in front of the audience that night.

When you wandered off stage did you and the band say much about the Cortez you'd just delivered (do you ever say much immediately after you come off stage?). I'd have been ecstatic if I'd delivered such mesmerising music for the last 15 minutes.

We knew it was a good one. memorable….

As Time Explodes is a great memory of the tour & you mentioned in a reply to a LTTE recently that the opening show on the European leg, at Rattvik, may be added to the Timeline concerts. Can I make another request for the Euro closer, in Paris too? That was such a great show, full of energy and really big noise where the solos were out of this world and the encore of HHMM (Black) was truly exceptional. Definitely worth a listen (and the killer combo of Ambulance Blues into Cowgirl has to be heard in Mulligan mixing desk quality).

Last one, totally unrelated to any of the above. Have you got itchy feet for the stage after performing at David Suzuki's birthday tribute? You looked so at home, indoors, with the acoustic….

Thanks to you and NYA for all you do. Time for a Patron Zoom soon?

Mark
Cley, Norfolk UK

Clay,
It felt good to do a “one of” show!
We will be doing a Patron Zoom very soon!
See u there.
Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


AS TIME EXPLODES


Hey Neil,

Loving the new live record! You mentioned outtakes for 'as time explodes’; any idea what these will be?

All the best!
ryan

Ryan, There are about ten of them…..coming soon to NYA
Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


W.N. RAGLAND
AND OTHER QUESTIONS


Dear Percival,

Is the W.N. Ragland still floating around? you sail much these days?

The WN RAGLAND, named after my grandfather, is so beautiful and full of life! She is still here with us and has just gone through a total rebuild. I look forward to sailing with Captain Katz and Niko soon.

Is a tour overseas really possible for you? It's very tiring, I'd imagine. Nice hotels are ok but hard work each day even in a bus driving around.

I was sure that rockers like yourself would rise up and do some shows with Bruce, etc. to make sure people VOTE.

We will be.

Are you using any new equipment these days?

Not much….. old black and the deluxe, white falcon and the gibson stereo amp.

The new LP is coming soon why did you choose to use two old songs from the sixties??

5 were from 2025. 2 from 1963. They work well together, telling a story.

Rick Rubin producing is he you go-to guy after Briggs left the planet?
Is he similar to Briggs?
Did it take a while to adjust to no Briggs?

I dig Rick!
Hope to work with him soon.
He is unique.

Briggs seem to have a view of burn it to the ground and rebuild it again. In your light is that what you got from him or complete honesty??

We were together in our music .

Zuma seemed so refreshing; still does. Why was that you seemed very happy at that point of time?

Have you ever seen Zuma beach? Who wouldn’t be happy!

Is Crazy Horse out to pasture for good or a studio LP possible?

Crazy Horse is alive and well.

Everyone healthy I hope.

You said your body told you not to tour. What's your body telling you these days?

Don’t tour. Work on unfinished films like the lincvolt film - ‘Miss Pegi and the Road to Tomorrow’ WRITE….Make a new record.

I continue to enjoy you music through the ages it's great you should be most proud of your music are you? You should be.

Maybe few duds there, but who's perfect not me not you either probably.

Love and only love keep going mate

Steve Downunder (McEvoy)
Coffs Harbour NSW

Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


BONNAROO


Neil,

In celebration of Bonnaroo, how about adding 6/13/2003 to the Timeline?
Really good stuff in there.

Be well
Restless Consumer
CT

Hey Restless
Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


HAPPY BIRTHDAY SPOONER


Happy Birthday Spooner

Right on!’
Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


AS TIME EXPLODES


Dear Neil,

I am really enjoying 'As Time Explodes.’ Love all the tracks especially Vampire Blues & the six minute intro on Cortez. Two of my favorite tunes which I was lucky to hear live last summer in Toronto.

With your post-Covid shows being outdoors, have you found a favorite one to play in because of the design or maybe the unique sound you can get in one of the venues?

I love many of them. No favorites

Daryl's beautiful film of your 'Coastal' tour highlighted what looked like some stunning outdoor theatres.

She is a great film maker!

Have a great summer.

Rob Campbell
Toronto

Rob,
Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


U.P. BIG BOY


Shakey;

Have you and Ben seen UP’s Big Boy 4014 locomotive? Such beauty and marvelous engineering. I look forward to it coming through Pennsylvania soon.

Take care and all the best, J

J, We saw it somewhere about 20 years ago!
Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


MASSEY HALL


Hi Neil,

I was listening to the Live At Massey Hall album today, and I wanted to ask: the guitar on that album sounds so woody, dark and soft, but still clear and articulate. I try, but I've never managed to get my guitar to sound like that—it just doesn't make those sounds. I wonder, is there some EQ on the guitar, or does your old Martin really just sound that good all on its own? I guess that's why those old guitars have the reputation they have hey! What a treat that must be to play a guitar that really, really sings.

That is the guitar.

Also, on the Massey Hall CD, there’s a movie of the performance—it’s so great with just the one spotlight, and the rest of the stage dark. Can we get it playing in the Hearse? I don't think I've seen it playing in there before.

I think you search and find. Use the keyhole top right

Last question—(and it's a nerdy one, are you ready?)—On the Massey Hall DVD main menu page, there's a song selection button that takes you to shortcuts to the various tracks. I remember that on the second page of that menu there is an instrumental outtake playing of A Man Needs a Maid that was just so beautiful I would go to that DVD menu page just to hear it. Could you upload that outtake to the outtakes page here on the Archives? I don't have a DVD player or a TV (probably won't get one ever again), so I won't get to hear it again otherwise….

Thanks for your time (and your music!)—looking forward to hearing the new stuff soon.

Jake

Thanks Jake !
LOVE
Neil


MORE SHOWS


Hi Neil,

Is there any chance for any additional US shows before or after Farm Aid this year? So many important songs that need to be heard (Living With War, The Restless Consumer, Mideast Vacation, Shots, etc.). EXCITED for the new album.

With love,
Sachin

Sachin. We might do one show to warm up.
look for announcement.
Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


HAWKS AND DOVES


Hi Neil,

Been listening to a lot of Hawks & Doves lately. Although I don’t really believe in rating music, I gotta say it’s one of the more “underrated” albums I’ve come across. Kinda funny how that is, a bunch of people can hear the same thing and feel all types of different ways. It’s a beautiful thing.

LIVE MUSIC IS BETTER BUMPER STICKERS SHOULD BE ISSUED!!!

Michael

Michael
Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


QUESTIONS


Dear Mr. Young,

I have been wanting to write this to you since early last year, but with everything that was going on then, and the deluge of requests you were getting for your tour and songs that were wished to be played, plus the stresses of our political climate and our threatened natural climate, I figured I would wait until maybe you had a chance to take a breath and possibly answer some questions that I have wanted to ask you if I could. I know that you are constantly in creative motion, and since nearly all of the worldwide issues remain basically the same, if this is not the right time for you to answer I completely understand.

These are some of the questions that I have been wondering about:

In light of the proposed Warner Bros. takeover, how will the music division be affected, especially Reprise?

NO EFFECT different company

Being an Art Director myself, I would like to ask if it is possible to add the inner sleeve art from Landing On Water (the great photo from inside the plane) to the cover art section of that album in the cabinet. I would like to think that that record’s Art Director would want their wonderful work fully represented.

While on the subject of art, I would like to acknowledge the recent passing of George Herms, who’s work adorns El Dorado. This also brings me to my next question: Am I correct in remembering that early on, perhaps around the LP release of Lucky Thirteen, that a piece of Wallace Berman’s art was used as part of the early NYA brand? If so, what was the connection to him and you and that piece in particular? Maybe you could show that on the Artist’s Perspective page?

Would it be possible to get a T-shirt into the store of the Shakey Pictures logo? I think that would look great across the front of a shirt.

What about a T-shirt or poster with the Vapor Records logo?

Finally, I would like to ask if you would please update that one place on this planet that seems to be at constant peace and filled with love: 3 Rail World. We could all use a visual and spiritual vacation there.

new films coming soon.

Thank you for taking time to read through this long letter. I appreciate all you do, and wish you, your family, and all at NYA peace, love, and good health. Please stay safe and well!

The Sinner

Ps: Oops, one last question—has anyone heard from Catman lately? I kinda miss his thought process.

Catman has been silent.
Hope he is well.
Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


TO FIND THE LOVE


I am trying so hard to find the love.
It gets harder every passing day.
How do you stop the rage?

DUMP TRUMP and the fossil Fuel production the USA supports.
Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


BLUES ALBUM?


Hello Neil!

What if a blues album next? You've had blues songs and bluesy songs on several albums. Also on your latest albums. Your bluesy songs have had a special feeling. Whole blues album would be great!

Marko from Finland

Thanks Marko
There is no plan
Thanks !
LOVE
Neil


RANDOM QUESTIONS


Hello Mr. Young and everybody at NYA.

A few random questions just to mellow the hard times we are all in.

1) After Berlin is a monster song; any reason why you played just once (as far as I know)?

2) Looking forward to buy an electric car … turns out the most efficient is a Tesla, at least here in Italy … very confused but I really want to drop my carbon footprint, should I swallow the bitter pill?

Yes.

3) Never thought about making a movie not related to your music?

Maybe….

4) If a proposal to make a biopic on you drops on your table would you take it into consideration?

no
THERE IS ONE ALREADY

5) Hope you'll tour someday in Italy again. Last time I saw you was in Piazzola sul Brenta and there is a video on YT of a glorious version of "Like a Hurricane.” Did you see it?

Take good care of yourself. Can’t wait to hear "Second Songs.”

Roberto

Thanks Roberto!
LOVE
Neil


Letters from the week of
6/12/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
THANKS EVERYONE FOR THESE LETTERS. ANSWERING THEM THIS MORNING WAS GOOD FOR THE SOUL….A GREAT WAY TO START A DAY!
LOVE
BE WELL
NY


MICHAEL DEGREVE


Mr Young

I thought you might find this interesting.

Cowboy State Daily: Cheyenne Musical Legend Michael DeGreve Dies at 78

Take care,
Kurt

Thanks Kurt. I have a foggy memory of Michael. Reading his wonderful story brought it back. Thanks for sharing!
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


SNOW KING RESORT
JACKSON HOLE


I was wondering if Mr. Young would ever consider performing at Snow King Resort in Jackson Hole, WY. It is an incredible outdoor venue with the Tetons in all of their glory behind the stage. I think it would be an amazing fit. Would love to host you in our beautiful mountain west.

Sarah Vlach

Sarah, It sounds wonderful. Thanks for sharing. I am not sure where and when I will be playing again, but I will try to remember your letter and the beauty of Wyoming was always great. MY old friend David Briggs, was from Jackson Hole.
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


GRANDPA


I am wondering if Neil Young’s grandfather’s name was Willie and did he have a lady friend in Winnipeg named Elsie McElroy. Elsie was my grandmother’s sister.

I am from a small town in Manitoba called Flin Flon and I believe that he has a relative in Flin Flon. Just curious.

I do have a relative there. I have walked those streets, gravel roads…..My Grandfather’s name was Bill.
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


JOHN HANLON THANKS


Hi Neil,

Please thank John Hanlon for his recent article in the Music column about why the vinyl of F**in Up said it was mastered from 48/24. He said it was actually mastered from the 96/24 binaural source derived from the Atmos mix. Please tell him he's wrong! The reason it says mastered from 48/24 is that all stereo sources derived from Atmos are actually 48/24; even if they're exported as 96/24, that's just 48/24 upscaled. How do I know this? Because there was an article in the Times-Contrarian from Niko a year or two ago saying exactly that, and you've got a request into Dolby to provide an option to export genuine 96/24 (how's that going?).

I was really glad to see that As Time Explodes was available in glorious 192/24 rather than the Atmos-derived lower-res mixes that have been used for some other recent live albums. Great mix as ever by Mulligan. But why does the vinyl As Time Explodes say mastered from 48/24? I assumed that's supposed to say mastered from 192/24? And why do you all keep F*'in Up?

Love,
Dave.

Hey Dave
I am not so sure we fucked this up, as you say, but I will check it out with Hanlon and Niko. It should be 192.
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


RIVERBOAT


Hi NYA,

Where can I find the short filmed intro to the Live at the Riverboat release? I remember seeing it once but now cannot remember where to locate it.

Thanks, Nicholas

Nicholas,
We kind of remember it and will look for it
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


SRS / BOOTLEGS


Hi Neil,

Seen as the NYA Special Release Series seems to have been halted. Just wondering will Homefires, Electric Judy, Island In The Sun, Tennessee, original Old Ways, audio Live In Berlin and Rusted Out Garage ever see the light of day?

And what about Mirrorball Live? or will that be just part of Volume IV?

Has the Bootleg Series been cancelled also?

Thanks,
Martin

Martin,
I appreciate your questions. None of these have been cancelled. There is a lot to keep track of and add to. Homefires may come late this year.
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


MIDLAND ONTARIO CANADA


Mr. Young,

Hi Mr Young, my name is Max Benke. I just turned 20 years old and live in Midland Ontario Canada. I’m at a weird spot in life where I don’t really know what’s going on or what to do—I don’t know if I ever will. I was on a trip to Ottawa last year to buy a motorcycle. I was driving my Old Ford pickup out of the ’80s thinking to myself—hey, I know this musician Neil Young, I know a couple of his songs. why don’t I give some more a listen? Since then I have totally fallen into your music. I can listen to it all day at work, all day after work, and play it on my Japanese knockoff D-35 with my Hohner harmonica and just never get bored of it. you are my absolute favourite musician and I am so thankful to be able to listen to and play the music you’ve created.

I have also recently started collecting records and have a ton of your albums. my absolute favourite are your live recordings from the ’70s. I have the Harvest 50th Anniversary edition, Massey Hall, and Royce Hall ordered. I don’t know how to describe the type of feeling I get when I listen to these live recordings, but it’s my favourite thing ever to do—I even sit with my guitar and play along. I get this sense of purpose and fulfillment and just get inspired to do things. I just recently watched your film Harvest Time and really enjoyed it. I love to play your albums through my player sitting behind my speakers—it sounds like you are performing in front of me.

I play the harmonica and guitar exceptionally well, but I lack on the singing. I am looking into vocal lessons and even practice singing your songs (when no one’s around haha) and hope to one day be able to perform like you do. I have also just begun writing some lyrics and trying to sort of come up with my own song playing solo obviously inspired by you. just me, my guitar, and the harmonica. I also saw you perform last year at Budweiser stage in Toronto. I tell my friends and family about you and I always refer to you as Sir Neil Young.

I believe you should be knighted for the music you have created haha. I also dream one day to own a real D-35 and be able to play it just like you did on your 45 and 28. Anyways Mr. Young, I’m sure you’ve heard it for a long time BUT I wanted to express myself to you, and let you know how great of an impact you have made in my life. My grandfather was a very big inspiration in my life—I grew up with him on his farm and learned all my skills, talents and values from him. sadly he passed away last year from Parkinson’s disease. I sometimes sit in silence and listen to, or play Old Man, and I just get this great feeling inside me. I can listen to your lyrics and FEEL them. I’ve never been able to do that with any other artist or music. though we don’t know each other, it feels like we do, and I feel a strong connection to you and your music.

I want to thank you for doing what you’ve done and impacting my life in the way you have. I truly hope you can see this letter and understand in a personal way just how much happiness and feeling you have put into my life. I wish you all the best and once again thank you for being you.

Take care Mr. Young, thank you from the bottom of my heart—
Max.

Hey Max! Thanks so much for your thoughts! I truly really appreciate this at the ripe old age of 80!
Again, thanks so much Max
LOVE Be Well
Neil


TIME SHIFTS


Hi Neil,

I hope you and yours are well. I’ve been reflecting a bit on history and timelines as it relates to our current state. In my humble opinion, a tremendous shift occurred in the late ’70s–early ’80s. Most recently, and more consciously, I noticed another big shift in 2012.

Back in 2012, Jason Mraz, Jack Johnson, Mumford and Sons and others were all singing about peace, love and happiness. Even the ‘vibe’ at Farm Aid shifted from 2012 to 2013. Many great artists became quiet or shifted.

Here we are in the years, for another big shift. I did get to see Jason with nice seats. I went all by myself and truly enjoyed singing along.

Over the years, I have shared my philosophy of the octaves of music, spirituality and community. Music has the ability to stir and awaken the soul. I would have liked to have chatted with Jason. I did say thanks for the show on his Facebook page. I am thankful that I am able to share thoughts and insights with you.

Not sure if you recall, several years ago I was gifted a Christmas song. I don’t play an instrument, but hear the music for the lyrics in my mind. I would love the honor to share what I hear with a musician, ’cause I think it’s pretty good and timely.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my words.

Much love,
Linda

Linda,
Times do change. Thanks for sharing your feelings.
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


SECOND SONG


Hi Neil,

Will you only include seven songs on the upcoming new album 'Second Song'
or write a few more before its release?

Will it be a fall release?

Will you have a summer US tour with the Chrome Hearts?

As Time Explodes is an amazing live album!
Especially with the inclusion of Name of Love and Long Walk Home! … thanks

Gareth

Gareth. There is a lot of music on this album. I hope you like it. Song lengths and number of songs tell me one thing….. that I am completely happy with this one!
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


BEAUTIFUL BLUEBIRD
HOW TO FIND THINGS


Beautiful Bluebird.

Hi Neil—do you have a version of the original Beautiful Bluebird you recorded in the mid 80s that you could add to the Archives?

Thanks,
Martin

Martin I think so. We are checking . it should be in the archives. CHROME DREAMS II, 10 /23, 2007. If you ever need to fnd something, click the search keyhole in the Contrarian (top right)
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


BARN


Neil—

I know you love a good barn and I recently saw my other favorite band (Built to Spill, who have done a Killer Cortez) perform in a really cool barn in Iowa. There is something amazing about stepping outside and just being the stars and the music.

Just wanted to share it with no slightly implied suggestion that if you could make it work a month-long residency there would be amazing.

Luke

Luke we are going back to the barn to continue our work on ARCHIVES IV. I love it
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


TREASURE TROVE


Neil:

Thanks for the treasure trove of great art over the years. Looking forward to the new record.

The diehard fans love the rarities and new arrangements that you play in concert every now and then. Examples would be Hurricane on the pump organ, electric Needle and the Damage Done, Dangerbird on the piano, etc. My question is: Did you ever work up one of these different arrangements that you really liked but for whatever reason have never played (yet)? I’m still holding out hope for a 15 min version of I’m the Ocean on the pump!

LAOL,
Pete in Indy

Thanks Pete
That one may never come!
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


WELCOME BACK


Hey Neil,

I keep circling back to listening to 'Welcome Back.' No matter how many times I listen to it, it takes me to that special place where the best of your music lives.

It's so good to feel time stop 55 years after first dialing into your tunes.

Thanks for helping David Suzuki celebrate his 90th. What a night that was! (David was my neighbour for years. We didn't chat much, just shared the silent bond of early risers, walking dogs by the beach in the rain)

Love

Doug

Yes Doug.
Welcome Back is a special one. Played in the barn.
LOVE
BE WELL
Neil


Letters from the week of
6/5/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
HEY!
SO HAPPY TO HEAR FROM U ALL TONIGHT!
BIG LOVE TO ALL
NEIL
BE WELL


ROCHESTER WAR MEMORIAL


Dear Neil Young,

Back in 2020, you announced the Crazy Horse BARN Tour and mentioned the possibility of playing some of the old, manageable venues you loved, including the Rochester War Memorial. I may be mistaken, but after the tour was delayed, I never heard Rochester mentioned again. I remember reading the JamBase article and being incredibly excited that you might be coming to my hometown.

If Rochester is ever under consideration again, I would be forever grateful. In my 52 years, I’ve been fortunate enough to see you perform twice, and both shows remain among my most memorable concert experiences.

Thank you for the music and the memories.

Best regards,
Todd

ps.. The Rochester War Memorial is still one of those rare old venues with real character, exactly the kind of place you seemed to have in mind when you first described the BARN Tour.

I hope I get back there. I love those places.
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


BOARDING HOUSE SHOWS


Howdy Neil!

I hope you and Daryl are happy and healthy!

You, Neil, are one of the greatest poets, lyricist, and songwriters of all time. You are a great inspiration towards many generations.

By the way I had an idea….
What if you could put out an official album like Young Shakespeare, but from the Boarding House shows?

The boarding house concerts are my number one all time favorite performances. One of the shows even takes place on my birthday … May 24th.
I think it would make a great record! There’s some great stuff in there.

Anyways…. Neil, thank you so much for the music, the lyrics, and the legacy!

Keep Playin!
-Liam
LOVE
Neil
Be Well

P.S. Pittsburgh is calling you back for a show ; )

Lliam
Thanks for the idea. The Boarding House shows really were unique.
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


HORSESHOE MAN


Hi Neil,

I think one more gem for all to hear is the only acoustic version of Horseshoe Man you ever played solo on guitar and during the Horde tour. It was at Irvine, CA on July 17, 1997. If I can extend my greedy hand, Cripple Creek Ferry from July 18,1997 in Phoenix, AZ would be another treat to share with us.

Thanks, as always.
Andrew J

I will listen to those this week.
Thanks!
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


PRAIRIE WIND


Where did the picture
photograph come from for your Prairie Wind album cover.?

It was a found image and we do not know who took it.  If anyone does, let us know!
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


EARTH ALBUM


Peace Neil,

Doing renos at my house, having much-deserved beer listening to some of your tunes in my backyard and the birds are grooving to your tunes, singing right along, it’s really mind blowing, they’re jamming man! One of my most favorite things.

Made me think of the album with nature sounds you did with Promise. Feeling connected with nature right now. It’s really wonderful. Can’t wait to hear the new LP!!

Michael from Ottawa

Michael,
I think you will love it, based on what you just said.
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


TRIIAD


Hi Neil

It’s been quite a while, but you may remember me from your South Florida Triiad days. Hanging out in the Florida Keys and Ft. Lauderdale. That was a real kick for me playing with you and David and spending the day at Triiad when you were working on Pocahontas. Several years later, I started writing and contacted David through Lookout. I told him I was thinking about doing my own album and he told me to send the songs to him, which I did. This was around the time when he was fighting his cancer and we never progressed. Sad times. I never really looked at it again until a year or two ago. I moved from LA back to Austin and finally did the album. I’m pretty happy with the outcome. I know you’ve got a ton going on but I thought I might send it along in case you might be interested in hearing a production that you and David were very much an inspiration for. Guitar was always my love, never thought of myself as much of a singer. My co-producer Bradley pulled a vocal out of me that I felt put the songs across. It was a long awaited labor of love….

All the best,

Steve

Here's the website.
Soundcloud link. Spotify is under Steven Lee Ebert … If Dreams Were Horses.

Thanks Steve
Triiad was a great time. Good memory….
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


TO PEACE


Neil,

Hope this finds you well and in good spirits. I have been on YouTube watching videos about the old days,The ones about C.S.N.Y and the Hollywood Center Motel. I was staying at the church across from there—a refuge for the young kids with nowhere to go. Where I met Danny the first time. You were around Sunset Studios and offered me a place to stay, a cabin in the hills. Although too prideful to accept, I would like to give a thank you for your kindness. I would not expect you to remember, but that scared little redheaded young girl never forgot your kindness….

Our friend Michael DeGreve went home on May 11. My husband’s lifelong friend, best man at our wedding. My husband played bass on his wonderful album TRUTH. Mike always spoke of you and how you left the Harvest Tour to help his town for charity. We were told he was in bed watching the same YouTube videos from the old days, Laurel Canyon. He closed his eyes and was at peace.…

Take care Neil and as always, Love and good thoughts sent your way.…
Jackie💙💙✌

PEACE and LOVE to you Jackie
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


250TH IDEA


Dear Neil,

tRUMP is making a mockery of America's 250th celebration. Perhaps you and some of your friends could stage a counter-celebration on the same day as a free concert somewhere in Virginia or Maryland. I'm sure it would drive the Orange Cheeto into an absolute meltdown of epic proportion.

Rockin' In The Free World!
Drake

I’ll check that out Drake…maybe make some calls. no promises though…!
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


AS TIME EXPLODES IN GERMANY


Hi Neil, thanx so much for all your music, your love and your input for earth, freedom of speech ... and coming to Europe again and again. When paddling all around Lake Of Constance last week I had a dream: If you ever wanna give Coastal a European leg, the Seebühne Bregenz, Austria might be a good place. Bregenz is a beautiful place between lake & mountain, easy to reach for fans from Austria, Switzerland, Germany. Have a look at Bregenzer Festspiele. The Stage on the lake with 7000 seats is famous for every year’s festival opera.

Yesterday I got my As Time Explodes. What a great album. I love it! Great to have Looking ?Forward from Berlin Waldbühne, where I saw the show together with the love of my life and our two daughters. This show was a once in a lifetime moment for us four.

Greetings from Germany
Udo

Big LOVE Udo!
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


CD DELAYS


Hi Neil,

There seems to be a delay with the release of the CDs of As Time Explodes.

I’m sitting in Australia frustrated by my inability to access a copy on the proposed release date of 29th May.

I’ve ordered it from the Greedy Hand Store and from local cd sellers including Warners Australia. The only way I have been able to access it is the NYA digital download or heaven help me iTunes or Spotify.

I have the RSD vinyl but CDs are my preferred media because of convenience of playability and storage.

I won’t be denied but I’m stuck inside of Canberra with the wtf is going on blues.

All the best
Neil Sidebotham

Sorry about that Niall
Hope you get THE MUSIC soon!
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


MONO DEBUT LP


Mono Debut LP

Dear Shakey;

Is the release of.your debut LP in mono still planned? Thanks J

Post Script: Excited for your new album with the Chrome Hearts!

Chrome hearts is next!!.
I think we did the mono debut album…I will check
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


FIRST ALBUM INSTRUMENTS


Hey Neil! I'm a big fan of yours. Do you recall which amps and guitars you used on your debut album?

Thanks!

White Falcons, Martin D 28 and D 18s! BEFORE OLD BLACK AND THE DELUXE
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


CELEBRATION!


HeyHo Neil!

Sure Hope all's well with You & Yours!
So about three years back I sent ya a note here to let ya know about our 25th Annual GrandYoungDays, a Celebration of You and You're Music. Many lifelong friends have been made at these gatherings.

In the past year we've all Lost some Good Souls. As we prepare for this year's event I'd like to give a ShoutOut to a guy we knew as AL GRANDE. He was a Huge fan of yours and participated in either 25 or 26 of the past 27. The theme this "Year of the Horse" GrandYoungDays28 is "thePromiseofaChromeHorse" with a Nod to AL G.
I've been collectin' Horses for the past three months or so and have been paintin' 'em Chrome. Hopefully there'll be enough that most if not all participants can leave with a ChromeHorseMomento (as Promised!)

Lastly that brings me to my question. Since it was recently announced the next NOKINGS RALLY will be on Sunday June 14, the same day as We wrap up our PeaceFullParty & some DISGRACEFUL LEADERS are havin' a birthday party in Washington DC, would it be OKAY w/You if we had a NOKINGS RALLY out here in the Pasture and the Barn while PLAYIN' yer Tunes LIVE & LOUD? (so many appropriate options!!!) Big Crime, Take America Back, Ohio, Looking for a Leader, Let's Impeach and "so Many More). I/We sure Hope it's OKAY w/You.

THANK YOU for BEING YOU!!! YOU ARE So LOVED.

ExtremelySincerely Rev. Rbbi of the BarChordMusicChurch

PEACE.LOVE.EARTH. fr Beautiful GreenVal, Wi

All the best to you and your friends!
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


DADDY WENT WALKIN
CORDUROY PLANTS


Hi Neil,

Since 'Daddy Went Walking' keeps playing over and over in my mind, I'm taking that as a sign I should write and tell you thanks for including it on As Time Explodes. I think the album has a good mix of songs that has something for everyone. From ones that put a smile on my face, like 'Daddy Went Walking' to those that need to express anger, like 'Big Crime', to the all around classics like ‘Cortez.’

Again, thank you.

With love and best wishes---Hey Now, Hey Now!
Mary Jane

Mary Jane
love and thanks so much!
LOVE
Neil
Be Well
Corduroy Plants and an old plaid shirt…….


Letters from the week of
5/28/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
THANKS FOR THE LETTERS FOLKS!
LOVE
BE WELL
NEIL


NEW LIVE AND STUDIO
BOTH SOON AND NOW


Dear Neil,

First, I’d like to thank you for all the great music over the years. I’m excited to hear the new live album, and the new studio record soon. And I’m really enjoying the two recent timeline concerts as well!

I’d like to ask you if you think there will ever be a CD reissue of the Official Release Series discs 5–8. I missed out on that one, and if goes for crazy money on the secondary market. Or if you have any spare copies having around the casa somewhere, I’d love to have a chance to buy one, haha!

My best,
Brandon from Kentucky

Brandon, thanks!
We are checking with the record company if there are any more available, but we are not planning on a re-release.
LOVE
be well
neil

Unfortunately, we don’t have any copies of that ORS set and the label are not planning a repress. The good news is each of those albums are still available, just not within this limited edition box. (there is one available on eBay currently for $150.) Sorry we couldn’t be of more help.

Frank - Lookout Management


MIRRORBALL


Is there an ETA for when the remixed version of Mirror Ball will be available for purchase in the NYA Download Store?

It is now available in the download store
LOVE
be well
neil


FOR DUSTIN
COST OF FREEDOM AND OHIO


This is for Dustin, who sent in a letter about Find The Cost Of Freedom going right into Ohio. A perfect example of this is found on the Journey Through The Past Soundtrack album.

Cheers,
James
Kansas City, MO

Thanks James
LOVE
be well
neil


TECH F%%kin Up QUESTION


Hi,

I've got more of a technical question in relation to the resolution of the F%%kin Up record. I've got the vinyl record of it and on it it says that it's mastered "In Analogue from 48/24 Digital" resolution, anyway, it came on auto play on NYA and I noticed that it says 24/96 resolution. I'm not really an expert when it comes to resolution, but I'm quite interested to know as to why the vinyl and streaming were mastered in two different resolutions.

P.S i love NYA, it absolutely rocks!

Cheers,
Will

Will,
John Halon wrote a great article in the Contrarian this week about this.
LOVE
be well
neil


ORS # 6


Hi
thanks for the Ors #6 much appreciated!
May we have some news about the next ORS releases?

We are shooting for later this year.
Thanks
LOVE
be well
neil


PARIS EVENT


Hello.

First of all, I hope Neil Young is doing well?

And the whole NYA team?

For your information, as part of a SUNDAY SESSIONS event in Paris, SONORIUM is organizing a collective listening experience to rediscover the great classics on vinyl ... All on a 100% analog high-fidelity sound system, installed by HARK.

June 28, 2026: listening session of the entire Harvest album.

Of course, we'll be there!

José.

Thanks Jose
ANALOG SOURCE VINYL ROCKS
LOVE
be well
neil


SHAKEY


Hello Neil,

I finished reading Shakey, by Jimmy McDonough a few months back. I really enjoyed it and at the same time, I was disappointed at how Mr. McDonough inserted his emotional judgement toward you, especially near the end of the book. He seemed to get too close to his subject. By my estimation, nobody can truly understand or know what happens within another persons' skin and as humans we are incapable of experiencing the neuro-emotional-Spiritual reasoning which motivates others to act in their own way. It took me several months to integrate my feelings about that book. Fortunately, I'm able to separate from any judgement toward you, Shakey. I'm glad you continue to be who you are, here on this planet. I love how you continue to create and speak Truth to Power.
I've really gone deep, recently, absorbing several books about Bob Dylan. It appears that he had a tremendous impact on you, based on things that I've read. It seems that Bob Dylan and you both experienced several, similar artistic progressions and evolutions throughout the courses of your careers. Not exactly the same, but similar. Have you read and informed yourself about Bob Dylans' musical career, over time? In honor of Bob Dylan's 85th Birthday today, do you have any words to describe his artistic achievements and any influence he's had on you?

I'm grateful for Times-Contrarian, which supports my principles and ideals.
Thanks for taking time to read these questions above.
This message is sent in the Spirit of Love. I wish you and your family well.

Joe P.

Joe
Something happened with the author of that book. I am not sure about it.
LOVE
be well
neil


NYA SUGGESTIONS


Hey Bernard,

I never make suggestions for the NYA.
BUT
Today is different.

New department
Jams

Not formal songs just jamming maybe even NO words

You must have hours of jams mate get Hanlon to put a few together.

I bet you fans will love it including me.

On a another thing why did you quit the Buffalo Springfield reunion tour the songs were being played really good no live tapes of them??

enough….

How's book coming along Canary?

great

What's a normal day for you these days?

Sun up sun down

Where's all the recording equipment from "Broken Arrow" and the old clunkers?

in storage

The wooden Indian statue where is it why did it go from stage props?
it is always at the shows with me at the tuning area
If you don't like touring which I can understand a residency would be fun for us fans maybe Vegas.

Maybe not Vegas

The album covers are great do you choose the ideas or other Janice or Gary.

Different all the time

Has selling the share of your catalogue been problematic?

no

Don't want address or anything where do live these days general area?

around Canada and the USA

My friend Tony says he saw you at the market in Malibu buying flowers.

Right

I sincerely hope your health is good we need people like you t move the people to VOTE.

VOTE!!!!!!!

Lotta Love
Steve Downunder ( McEvoy)

Thanks Steve
LOVE
be well
neil

PS when I heard Harvest for the first time I knew


DAVID SUZUKI'S 90TH


Hi Neil.

I saw that you were at David Suzuki’s 90th birthday celebration in Vancouver on Friday. If you are still in the country and near Toronto on Saturday May 30th, please consider dropping in on John Wanless Public School’s 100th anniversary celebrations, from 1:00 to 4:00. Some of your old classmates from grades 7 and 8 may show up. Hope to see you there.

George

Thanks George FOR LETTING ME KNOW….
LOVE
be well
neil


ORS 4


Hi Neil,

Now that you're working on Vol. 4 of the Archives, how about a truly ballsy statement for the younger generation—something to make them kick back for a minute and enjoy music instead of frantically scrolling through songs? You could preview Vol. 4 with this showstopper of an album:

-Side A: Ordinary People (no overdubs)
-Side B: Sixty to Zero (full version)

That's it. Two songs. How about that?
Abel

Abel,
We have those chosen.
LOVE
be well
neil


VIRTUAL MINDFULNESS


Hi Neil~

It would be my honor to share a virtual Mindfulness experience with all at NYA. Thing is, it’s typically live. Sharing a previously recorded experience is not ‘appropriate,’ as discussions can be personal and would require releases.

Spirituality is a higher octave, often silent. Thankful for music.
Hoping to see Jason Mraz live as he is touring near. Wanna join me? It amazes me how so few pause and embrace moments of joy. Life is short.

Today is 7 years since my soul mate crossed. It has offered an opportunity for me to deepen my practice and awareness of this life experience. Doing it alone is interesting.
As always, thank you for taking your time to read my words.

Much love,
Linda

Linda, Lots of LOVE
be well
neil


Letters from the week of
5/22/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks for the letters again folks!
I love getting them!
Be well
LOVE Neil


CONCERT RELEASES


Neil,
The live concert releases are a real pleasure to listen to. Please keep ‘em coming.

-Rod

Thanks Rod
LOVE,
Neil
Be well


COUNTRY GIRL


Hello,

Where can I find "Country Girl" by Gillian Welch and Dave Rawlings, performed at BSB? I know it was available on NYA, but I cannot find it anymore ...

Thanks for your help,
Best, Albert.

Hi Albert!
Country Girl from Bridge Benefit 2006 is still up on NYA, but you’re right to notice it’s a little less front and center than the officially released music on the site. Like all songs that don't have infocards, when you search “Country Girl” (or Gillian Welch, or David Rawlings) the track will not appear in the Songs tab, but you can find it in categories where it does appear. In this case, navigate over to the search results for Playlists and find the song in the “Member Requests From Live Performances” Playlist, the repository for all the single-song excerpts from concerts that folks have requested in letters.
country girl
Best,
nya


DREAM COMFORT


Hey Neil!

I just wanted to say thank you for sharing my video, Dream Comfort Memory to Spare. I am very touched. I know that you are very passionate in your quest to save analog music. It is very important that we share it with our kids and grandkids in order to keep it alive. Save the music!!
Peace and love to you and Daryl and all of your beautiful animals. I really adore them!

With Love and Gratitude,
Christine Ruda

Thanks Christine!!
Analog is alive and well in our latest album, coming your way soon….
LOVE,
Neil
Be well


SILVER EAGLE


Thanks for the Silver Eagle debut at Ohio last year—my friend Alex and I dig that song..

Cruising down the highway in my little silver Honda, smoking joints, talking about what song we'd wanna hear off the latest record (on the off chance one gets played), we both decided on Silver Eagle.

As you told the intro story we realized, and shared a knowing glance and laughed. Also caught Big Crime in Chicago, which was a good surprise.

I love when you decide to play the new songs!

Evan

Thanks Evan
LOVE,
Neil
Be well


AS TIME EXPLODES


Greetings Neil,

Just a quick note saying I’m thoroughly enjoying “As Time Explodes,” which I picked up at a local independent shop on Record Store Day.

Kudos to you and the Chrome Hearts. Also want to give a shoutout to fellow Jersey guy Danny Clinch for those great photos!

Stay well,
Al Lukowicz
Yardville, N.J.

Thanks Al
It was a wonderful tour!
we are adding all the outtakes
LOVE,
Neil
Be well


GREENDALE ACOUSTIC


Greendale acoustic was a great evening in Bergen, not so long ago but not a cellphone in sight but i had one i my pocket 😀 i remember Pocahontas was played and another old song expecting to fly maybe, good memories

Egil

Thanks Egil
LOVE,
Neil
Be well


POLO CENTRAL


Hi Neil, Daryl and Everyone at NYA,

It was good to find the time to check it and see what has been happening with you. I enjoyed the Take Back America video. Yes, let's keep on rocking in the free world!

Your new Friends and Family section in the file cabinet is really fun, and I'll be back to hear more of that for sure. I also loved the video with the kids listening to vinyl. Helpless never meant so much!

The new album looks to be excellent, and I will anxiously await having a listening session here at Polo Central in the near future. The Hi-Fi is nearly finished so I won't have to use headphones only. Though for loud levels that's my bonus, I need to keep my neighbors happy!

Question: What that box framing the floor monitor in the Take America Back video? Another amp, control or what?

Keep on brother.

Peace, Love and Music!
-Mudflow Mike

Thanks Mike
Not sure ABOUT THE BOX YET…..
LOVE,
Neil
Be well


GREENDALE


Shakey,

Any update on the Vicar St. Greendale Acoustic vinyl release you mentioned on here a few times?

Thanks!

We are looking at it. nothing to announce yet.
LOVE,
Neil
Be well


CONSUMED


Hi Neil, I’m a 27-year-old mechanic who’s recently been completely consumed by your music. I’m captivated by your seemingly limitless authenticity displayed through music; it’s incredibly refreshing and I wanted to thank you for that. Do you have any advice for a guy with a lot of life changes ahead of him and staying authentic through them?

All love
Michael

Be yourself friend
LOVE Neil
Be well


WINDOWS OPEN


_

Greetings Neil, I have the windows open today as I stroll thru the Archives thanking you and your team for preserving my old playlists. Congratulations on your busy schedule, accomplishments and accomplishments in progress. I have been looking forward to seeing evidence of your close walk with Jesus, very selfish on my part. Trusting you have placed your faith and trust in Him and are serving Him.

You are loved,
Rich In The Woods [Ozarks]

Hey Rich
Thanks!
LOVE Neil
Be well


Letters from the week of
5/15/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks folks!
I hope you are all having good days!
LOVE
NEIL
Be well


STRUGGLING


Hey Windy,

I am struggling here!!
The song Country Girl: what the hell is that song about?
Am I stupid or the answer is blowing in the wind?
I know you don't like those type of questions can you indulge me?
The answer’s blowing in the Wind!

Did you ever own or play a Gibson SG?
NO
Did you know SG stands for solid guitar?
NO

It was originally marketed as a Les Paul but he didn't like the shape apparently so no more Les Paul on headstock.

Keep rocking you are a bloody good guiding light mate.

Steve Downunder

PS "Second Song" better be good or you will be in serious trouble with me (Not really). Van Gogh never did a bad painting or did he?

Its real Steve! We really like it.
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


CORTEZ THE KILLER


(Sorry if this note violates the guidelines, I really wasn't sure.)

You wrote the song, Cortez, and your playing (+Jimi +SRV +Albert King) is the inspiration for my playing. This the best performance I've ever done and I think you'd enjoy it.

I have wondered for years how to get it to you, maybe this is the way.

I'd be deeply honored if you gave it a listen. It was just a live rehearsal track, but it came together, not perfectly, but in a way that is utterly volcanic. Hope you agree.

Thank you so much for years of inspiration.

Check it out folks!
LOVE
Neil
Be Well


EIRE


Sorry to hear you’re not coming back to Ireland this summer—so many great summer days with friends and yourself blowing the roof off the RDS & the 3Arena in Dublin & Vicar St. & a magical day in Slane Castle—trunks full of memories so thank you.

I will miss it but I need to take some time,

Just wondering if there are plans to get a recording of ‘The Circle will be Unbroken’ duet with Bob from the Nolan Park Kilkenny in 2019 up on NYA? I’d love to hear that again—what a moment—we were blessed Neil! I’d love to see that as a special release for a RSD for the Bridge or something—I’d be putting ‘Tired Eyes’ on the a-side tho—I’d find it impossible to pick one song but if I had to ‘Tired Eyes’ says it all.

Until we start doing just that nothing will change.

See you back here again soon Neil please God.

Love agus Slán go fóill

Niall Lonergan

Thanks Niall
We looked and we don't have it.
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


LAKEFIELD CONCERT


Hi Neil—

I was in Lakefield last week. The spring wildflowers are blossoming—the purple hepatica, trilliums and even dandelions. I am forever grateful for the show you gifted us last spring at the farm. Art—including yours—is helping our family through a year of loss and heartache.
May you feel the care from this community and the land here that you know and love. May our gratitude and care be an offering to you and your loved ones.

Jenn and Kevin

Thanks Jenn and Kevin!
The concert recording is realy unique and good!
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


TAKE AMERICA BACK!


Hey Neil,

I really enjoyed “Take America Back” aka RITFW. I was wondering if you could make digital downloads available in the hi-res store of that song and other songs (Ambulance Blues, etc…) that I’ve heard good things about but they didn’t make the “As Time Explodes” cut?

Also, public service awareness announcement for all those that need help:
leavingmaga.org.

Thanks you!
Herb Hesse
Holbrook

Hey Herb
Thanks
All that music is coming to NYA soon
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


THE HEARTS


Dear Neil,

I am really looking forward to hearing your new recording with the Hearts.

Different thought: I have always wondered—what inspired you to write ‘Powderfinger’’?

The muse.

My brother who introduced me to your music when we were both young teens said he remembered an old Civil War movie that had a similar scene of a boat steaming down river.

So my question is, was it a film or just an interesting story you created with a great melody behind it?

Best wishes,

Rob Campbell
Toronto, ON

Bob
The muse!
No movie….
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


OUT TAKES


Hi Neil,

I saw you last summer in Groningen. What a party! I really enjoyed it.

Great to have all the outtakes in one place at NYA. Would it be possible to play all outtakes from the drawer one after another, like a playlist?

Thanks!
Arnaud

Amaud
Thanks. We are looking at your request.
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE


Hi Neil~

I hope all is well. On the mend with the suggestions by my functional medicine provider, thankful. I sent over a few ‘pieces’ to the PLH page. No worries if my writing is not up to par; just wanted to be sure they were received.

The practice of Mindfulness is my key to inner peace. Paying attention, on purpose, to the present moment without judgement. Listening to my intuition and going with the flow.

If permitted….I offer a free 60 minute virtual experience to assist others who wish to embrace the practice and enjoy the benefits. It would be my honor to offer it to all at NYA.
Mindfulness has been my anchor through lots and lots of bumps. It’s free and EVERYONE can practice.

As always, thank you for taking your time to read my words.

Much love,
Linda

Thanks Linda
send the virtual experience please.
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


CATALYST IN THE HEARSE


Catalyst in The Hearse was a treat. Some stuff I’d not heard. Gotta love the NYA. The guitar is great in that show. Touch the Night is terrific. How many countless hours has Ralph laid down that bedrock!!

Sandy
Lake of Bays, Ontario

I love Ralphie and his playing WITH THE GREAT CRAZY HORSE!
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


COST OF FREEDOM and OHIO


I distinctly recall a recording in which CSN&Y performed "Find The Cost Of Freedom" leading right into "Ohio." Incredibly powerful. Now I can't find it anywhere. Does such a recording exist?

Or, am I just dreaming?

Thanks for your time,
Dustin

It was like that in many shows.
Thanks
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


OUT TAKES


I just need to express my gratitude to Neil and his crew for keeping up and adding to the out-takes.
Now listening to Cortez … FANTASTIC!
Brings tears to my eyes.

Thanks for all the years of wonderful music. You have touched me deeper than any other.
Sappy I know, but it’s true.

Thanks
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


2ND ROW SEATS


Hi Neil,

I saw your tour debut in Dalhalla, Sweden 2025. Ive totally seen four shows of yours. 2001 was fantastic. But last year, you and Chrome Hearts played like I’ve never heard before. During “When you dance…,” Cinnamon Girl,” and ”F@#ckin Up,” tears where coming from my eyes. It was so groovy and the sound was so great. We got real good seats on the 2nd row. Thanks for the Patron presale.

Would it be possible to add this show to the Performance Timeline?

Keep on rockin!!!
Lars

Thanks Lars!
comin’ to the timeline…..
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


THE SPIRIT OF CRAZY HORSE
EARTH BROWN


Dear Neil Young,

After having met an Anishinabe person recently in an online video conference who spent the last 50 years in jail for a crime that likely had been committed by someone else, I started to re-read Peter Matthiessen's book about these incidents titled "In the Spirit of Crazy Horse.” In Matthiesen's comprehensive approach to his subject he tells about how he travelled native America in the '70s and early '80s encountering stories about a being that—according to many different aboriginal oral traditions—is appearing in times of crises. This being is called Unkcegi in the Lakota language, which directly translates to "Earth Brown" in English (Matthiessen, Introduction, p. xxxiii). The character of this being is described as mostly ambivalent in nature, although somewhat frightening to humans. Its visitations happen out of nowhere and the being disappears into the wild again. Native people seem to understand these visitations as a kind of warning. According to Matthiessen, sometimes the Lakota expression is translated in a derogatory variant, the brown meaning feces. Earth Brown, of course, is an enigmatic figure in the Greendale story. His disappearance in the wilderness at the end of the movie very much fits in with that mythological archetype of the "wild man.”

So my question is: did you ever come across that narrative, or was "Earth Brown" just your own intuitive creation, maybe just an analogy to "Sun Green" and all the others in her family tree?
When I saw pictures of you wearing a t-shirt on stage supporting Leonard Peltier when he was being in jail still, also a tattoo art campaign to promote a clemency initiative for him, I also wondered if you guys have ever met.

Mitakuye Oyasin—being the obvious closing remark

Dionys, south of the river Danube

Dionys,
Earth Brown just came to me from the muse, bit I love the story you tell!
LOVE
Be Well
Neil


Letters from the week of
5/8/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Nice batch of new letters to read this morning
Thanks folks!
LOVE Neil
be well


TONIGHT’S THE NIGHT

Neil I’m listening now to Tonight’s the Night from Bluenotes Live! The best version ever (for me)! Horn and guitar, bass stomp and drumming … Fantastica!
Thanks for all … stay well

Thank you for being there!
LOVE
Neil
be well


UNION MAN

I am a Union Man.
See: www.PHASE4.us

WE NEED TO DO THE RIGHT THING.
GET A NEW PRESIDENT
LOVE NEIL
BE WELL


AS TIME EXPLODES

Hello Neil,

As Time …

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of
5/1/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks for these letters folks. I appreciate it.
LOVE
Neil
be well!


BOXCAR

Neil,

The outtake of Boxcar from 1990 is a gem. Great sound!

Drake

*Drake the one coming on NYA V4 is the best one I think.

Thanks
LOVE
Neil
be well*


LONG WALK HOME

LONG WALK HOME

Hi Neil,

Stefano’s letter which you published last week about the early 1970 double album concept raises an interesting question about Long Walk Home.

Your track list for that untitled double album, a candidate to follow on …

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of
4/24/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
A great bunch of letters! Ever notice how week to week, the letters change in what folks are focusing on? I do!
Thanks for writing these letters.
LOVE
be well
neil


DEAR WINDY

Dear Windy, Shakey Godfather of grunge Neil etc.,

On reflection, are there songs of yours that you now think are not cool or you don't share that view any longer?
I was not so sure about ALABAMA.

Or songs you would feel uncomfortable playing again?
don’t know any…

If not too many, for clarity’s sake name them.

You don't work with big names at all in the music business. Why not?
I am …

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of
4/17/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks everyone!
Reading your letters is
a highlight for me.
be well
LOVE
Neil


FINDING PEACE IN TIMES OF CHAOS

Hi Neil~

I love the PLH addition. I sent over my recipe for chia seed pudding. I hope you enjoy it. I am working on another piece to share as well. “Finding Peace in Times of Chaos.” Looking forward to seeing what other folks have to share. Glad it is a collaborative effort. People need to hear about love. Despite the chaos, finding peace, love and happiness within, to …

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of
4/11/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Got up early today to answer these letters! Had to delay my dog walk!
Thanks for sending!
PEACE
LOVE
neil
BE WELL


WISHFUL NEWS

Breaking News [Wishful News].

Good afternoon Neil,

In the Fall of 2027 after the success of The CSNY Peace Album in late 2026, which Neil Young worked tirelessly to get released, Neil went on an acoustic tour [October 2027] and performed some really rare and peaceful songs.

Captain Kennedy / War of Man
Already Great / Light A Candle
This Old Planet / Flags of Freedom
Long Walk Home / Looking for a …

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of
4/3/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks for these letters. Some good thoughts included! and questions!
LOVE Neil
be well


YAKETY YAK

Hi Neil,

I have been looking through a book on my shelf that I have not read in years. It is called “Yakety Yak,” a 1994 book by Scott Cohen. It contains “The Midnight Confessions and Revelations of Thirty-Seven Rock Stars and Legends.”

In it you are asked about “Records I Wish I had Never Lost.”

You answer, The Early Shadows, your old Jimmie Reed collection, Larry Williams—“Boney Moronie,” and all those original …

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of
3/27/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks for the letters folks!
LOVE neil
be well


CHROME HEARTS LIVE ALBUM

Neil- i hope all is well. Please release a CD version of the Chrome Hearts live album that you are releasing on RSD That would be great

Thank you, Craig

Coming at the end of March Craig!!!
LOVE NEIL
Coming in vinyl 2 weeks sooner on Record store day.
LOVE
BE WELL

NEIL


A ROLLING STONE

A Rolling Stone

Dear Neil

I hope my letters don't seem tiresome. You are …

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of
3/20/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Hey!
thanks for the questions.
Good to hear from you!
LOVE NEIL


THE BAD SEEDS

Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds - Accor Arena, Paris - ARTE Concert

The best concert and music I’ve seen since you. A concert so uplifting from grief. It’s joyful.
Thought it might be inspirational. Hope the new songs are flowing and under the muse.

No one ever writes this, but I love you for everything in my life. Love.
T-Bone

WOW

Thanks T Bone!!!
LOVE Neil
be well


I AM …

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of
3/13/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks for these letters folks. I so appreciate hearing from you all, and this section is one of the most read on NYA!
Be WELL
Neil


BEAUTIFUL MILANO

Hi Neil,

I am adding my name to the long list of unhappy fans who won't see you this summer but I totally get it. In the last videos I saw of you I had the feeling you needed to take it easier on you, so I was already fearing this tour might not happen. I am a bit younger than you but I can already feel the toll of aging, and I …

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of
3/6/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks folks for the letters again this week!
LOVE NEIL


NYA VOLUME 4 PRINCETON LANDING

Hi Neil and dhlove,

I hope all is well in life and with loved ones.

I have just read the member Tom Hambleton’s submitted story (Feb 27, 2026) about the 'Old Princeton Landing' shows in June of 1996—what a special way to see you and the Horse. It got me thinking of one of my favourite albums from that era—“Broken Arrow”—and was wondering if we will see a high res …

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of
2/27/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Its another bunch!
LOVE NEIL


NETHERLANDS

Hi Mr.Young,

I've been watching some of your concert films this last week after hearing about the news that the EU tour has been cancelled. Do you think you'll ever come back to Europe for some gigs?
I loved Groningen last year despite the heat!

Best regards and greetings from The Netherlands,
Leon

Thanks for the greetings!
Yes, I hope to return in the future.
LOVE
Neil
be well


AMAZON / VOTE WITH YOUR …

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Letters from the week of
2/20/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Some amazingly great letters, recalling concert experiences and lasting lifetime events. So much LOVE in these letters! Thanks for this great collection.
LOVE AGAIN,
NEIL


EURO TOUR CANCELATION
VOLUME 4

Hi Neil,

I hope all is well with you and your close ones after hearing you had to cancel the European Tour.

Having said that, I'm glad to read you're working on Archives Vol. IV ! This volume will indeed be very rich in terms of video content (I'm really looking forward to seeing (and hearing!) Weld and Unplugged in HD/Hi-Res for the first time).

Speaking of Unplugged; not all …

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of
2/13/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks
LOVE Neil
be well


EURO TOUR CANCELLATION

Neil,
So the European tour is off.
I hope you are well
And/or ready to take a stand.
Whatever it is we are with you
Tony ""Hambone"" Hammond in the UK

Thanks Tony
LOVE
NEIL
be well


LIVE ALBUM SONGS

Shakey,

I see the announcement of the release of the Live Album through Record Store Day. Unfortunately, there is no track list associated with the release. Will we see a track list …

Click Here To Read More.

Letters from the week of
2/6/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
THANKS AGAIN FOR THIS WEEK'S
LETTERS EVERYBODY!
LOVE
PEACE
Be Well
Neil


COMPLEX SESSIONS AUDIO

Hey there!

Any chance we could get the audio-only tracks from "The Complex Sessions" on the Archives? I know they were released as a promo-only CD in '94 and it'd be great to have these versions for easy listening in the app.

Thank you!
-nm

nm
It is being scheduled
LOVE
NEIL
BE WELL


KIND AND THOUGHTFUL

Hi Neil,

Interesting times of change globally and personally. Thankful we are entering the Year …

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Letters from the week of
1/30/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
IN THESE TIMES YOU CAN HELP BY BUYING CLEAN.
PEACE NY


LOVE EARTH POSTER

Neil I love your love earth tour poster, will it be on sale at your gigs in a decently large size? Or failing that could you send me one?
ps I am unbelievably happy that you are playing in Cornwall I've got tickets already.
All the best I love your work Dins Dinsdale

Dins
Thanks
It will back in the store soon!
LOVE
Thanks
Neil
be well


PEACE BOARD

Hi Neil~

I …

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Letters from the week of
1/23/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks for your letters in this sad time for AMERICA.


A SAD THING

Dear Neil

I can't pop down to San Diego to see you until that country is no longer under a fascist regime, so will you please always book a venue in Vancouver (or Victoria) so that i can be there? Deer Lake was perfect last summer.

Love and only love,
Whissy

Hey Whissy,
So sorry about that. If corruption does not overtake us completely, we will have control of the House of …

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Letters from the week of
1/16/2026 for the
TIMES CONTRARIAN:
Letters submitted
by NYA Members for Neil
Thanks folks
for your letters this week!
LOVE
be well


CINCINNATI

Neil:

Is there a release date for the 1970 concert in Cincinnati that you just made partially available? I have all of your albums and would like to add this concert to my collection.

Thx, Jeff

Not yet!!
LOVE
be well
neil


UNPLUGGED

Hello Neil, thank you for everything!

Do you think it will be possible to watch the 1993 Unplugged concert in unedited form, complete with Sample And Hold, Dreamin' Man, War Of …

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Artist PerspectiveArtist Perspective

"Zuma Triptych"
by James Mazzeo c. 1989
Giclee Print on Paper

He came dancing across the water
With his galleons and guns
Looking for the new world 
And that palace in the sun
On the shore lay Montezuma
With his coca leaves and pearls
In his halls he often wandered
With the secrets of the world
And his subjects
Gathered 'round him
Like the leaves around a tree
In their clothes of many colors
For the angry gods to see
And the women all were beautiful
And the men stood straight and strong
They offered life in sacrifice
So that others could go on
"Cortez the Killer" - Neil Young

Visit Mazzeo Studios

 

 

"Route 66"
by James Mazzeo c. 2003
Acrylic on Canvas

by James Mazzeo

The friendship between Mazzeo and Neil was one filled with adventures - including a road trip on Route 66. This homage painting is included in the Greendale book.

Mazz loved working on the Greendale project. When interviewed by Rebecca Patt for metroactivemovies.com, this line in Bandit was mentioned - "You're hard to reach, no one can reach you, but I can reach you".

Mazz replied: "...and he can reach me, 'cause he's like my best friend, and he knows he can".

https://www.metroactive.com/papers/cruz/05.12.04/greendale-0420.html

Visit Mazzeo Studios

 

 

"Garden Gate"

Garden Gate
by Tami Chandler

by Tami Chandler
Acrylic on canvas

 

Backseat drivers don't know the feel of the wheel
But they sure know how to make a fuss
-Bob Dylan

Criticism comes so naturally to us humans. We see a person in a situation and we immediately have an opinion of how it should be handled. We would never do what they did. We would never live that way, make that choice, etc. We can even become sanctimonious about it.

The thing is - we are not them. We don't know the whole situation, what led to it, or what might lie on the other side of it if a change is made.

The last thing we want is someone else criticizing us or giving their unsolicited opinions and/or advice. We should afford others the same courtesy.

 

 

 


 

"Avila"

by Tami Chandler
Acrylic on Paper

 

Boredom is an insult to life.

 

There is no excuse for boredom. If one is in good health, they have everything they need to create any kind of life they desire. From that point, a person can do almost anything.

 

Even those in poor health do not have to be bored. If you are bored, create something - even if it's just in your mind. We are all capable of bringing forth something out of nothing.

 

If one feels unwilling or unable to create, they can explore what already exists. It is as simple as enjoying the creations of others or taking in the wonders of nature, which is ever changing.

 

Nature doesn't live by the concept of boredom. Neither should we.

 

 

 


 


EMOTIONAL TIDAL WAVE

Emotional Tidal Wave

September 19, 2026

Oil on Canvas 12" X 24"

self-made frame from recycled wood


 

Like an EMOTIONAL TIDAL WAVE,

I am falling and don't know where I will land

Luck was with us, but I had not evolved

How will I know you, can you tell me now?

Victoria Cavaleri     September 19, 2026


"Big Green Country"

Big Green Country

by Tami Chandler
Mixed Media on Panel

Sometimes I feel like a piece of paper
Sometimes I feel like my own name
Sometimes I feel different later
Sometimes I feel
I feel just the same
-Neil Young

Each day the expanse of life lies outstretched before us.

Sometimes it appears to be a myriad of brambles and pitfalls. At others, it is a blank slate on which we can paint our dreams.

The landscape is what it is. Our feelings determine how we navigate it.

 

 


 

"Rock & Roll High School"

by Tami Chandler
Mixed media on paper

High school memories are different for everyone. For some, they'd give almost anything to relive those days. Others would rather eat a bug than endure the high school experience.

There's one thing everyone can agree on - it was definitely a time of learning. Learning about oneself, social situations, and life in general...big lessons.

While that part of life is far in the rearview mirror for most of us, that young spirit is still inside - still learning.

As the song says, rock and roll can never die.

tamichandlerfineart.com

 

 


 

Bandit Drawing from Greendale Book
by James Mazzeo
c. 2004
Pen on paper

Bandit Drawing from Greendale Book

I would like to share a particularly nice little piece of creative writing by an old storyteller that I am quite fond of.
Enjoy
-Mazz

 

bandit

turnin' the pages
in this old book
seems familiar
might be worth a second look

wrappin' up dope in a paper bag
talkin' to yourself
takin' a drag
who are you kidding
with what you say?
what does it matter?
they'll never hear it anyway

got to get past
the negative thing
lawyers and business
you get what you bring
no one's sorry
you did it yourself
it's time to relax now
and then give it hell

someday you'll find
what you're lookin' for
someday you'll find
what you're lookin' for

Visit Mazzeo Studios


Neil Young Archives
August 19, 2026
by Victoria Cavaleri

The Dwyn Wyn ... 109-foot Schooner built in 1909
Mixed Media Watercolor Print. 18" x 14" on canvas

There was a time I thought would never end

a time when dreams and friends were all we had.

It wasn’t so long ago in my mind, and it was yesterday in my heart.

Letting go and turning back sometimes seem to be the same thing.

I will wait for the day when you are told.

 

Mixed Media Watercolor Print

"When We Were Three"

18" X 16" on canvas

 

 


 

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"What We Still Remember"
by Victoria Cavaleri
Oil on Wood Panel 24" X 48" August 8, 2026

Time carries us through different landscapes. Some memories stay clear. Others change shape, disappear, or return when we least expect them.

But there are people who remember the same distant places we do— not always in exactly the same way, but well enough to know they were real.

Maybe that is part of growing older: finding someone who can still see a little of what you saw, and walking slowly through what remains.

Victoria Cavaleri

…

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Our dear friend. Gone 4 years today.
His love of nature was beautiful.
"Circumference of Circumstance"
by James Mazzeo, 2001
Acrylic On Canvas

We have prehistoric giant ferns that grow 8 feet high and the good mushrooms take you much higher than that....each redwood tree has leaves that convert the coastal fog into over 50,000 gallons of giant drops of water upon their roots each year!!! When the creeks fill and spill out into the ocean the Salmon and Steelhead fight their way up them to mate and lay their eggs..... fertile ground these there hills of central …

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"Adelante!"
by Tami Chandler
Mixed Media on Canvas

The Spanish word "Adelante" means "forward" or "straight ahead". It is an inspiring word - an encouraging one.

The world is full of discouraging circumstances. In order to get to a better place, we can and must summon our energy and hope to move forward through them.

Adelante, friends!

tamichandlerfineart.com


 

"Deja Blue"
by James Mazzeo, 2015
Acrylic On Canvas

Every day I relive amazing tiny little moments from out of nowhere. Moments that take me back to my childhood's lost and overlooked memories.

Memories that nowadays have reappeared for only a moment or two initially, but now echo and sparkle like diamonds and nuggets of pure gold.

These moments come to me from my Mother's Eternal Spirit and they rock my Soul.

-Mazzeo

Visit Mazzeo Studios


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"Failure is Not an Option"
by Tami Chandler
Mixed Media on Canvas

"Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better." - Maya Angelou

So often in life we beat ourselves up over our perceived failures - those times when we don't live up to our own expectations or the expectations of others, or we make choices that result in undesirable consequences.

We view the situation as a disaster, and ourselves as a screw-up. But is it really? Are we?

…

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"Daybreak"
by James Mazzeo, 2012
Acrylic On Canvas

John Quigley was my High School Art Teacher and the single most important influence in my becoming an Artist.

He recognized that I had a natural sense of Design and Composition and then taught me the intricacies of using a Color Wheel to achieve balance and visual harmony in my paintings.

A balanced color palette,combined with a disciplined color scheme was like playing a well tuned guitar as opposed to playing out of tune,the result …

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House of Colors
Victoria Cavaleri
May 29, 2026, Oil on wood with Ink
36" X 48"

Art, like a house — and like a life — is only as strong as its foundation.

Sometimes you wake up and what you had the night before is gone.

Impulsive behavior, broken rules, and wishful thinking can be risky business.

My painting is gone. What you are seeing is a print. Thankfully, I had taken a photograph of it, because I quite liked this painting and wanted to share it here on NYA.

I …

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"Love Will Teach You"
by Tami Chandler
Acrylic on Panel

When we look back at many of the life lessons we have learned so far, they were taught to us by love.

Whether the love was tough or gentle, it was there. Somewhere. Maybe it didn't come from another person or situation, but from a Higher Power or from the love we have within. Maybe sometimes the lesson was to simply show ourselves some love.

When we look through the eyes of love, we see …

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John O’Neill Video Art Screening
Chicago, June 20th

Hello NYA,

This announcement is outside the usual scope of this space, but I would like to alert the Chicagoans among you (specifically those Chicagoans who enjoy unconventional or experimental art & music) that I will be presenting a program of my videos at Elastic Arts on June 20th. The “I” in the previous sentence refers to John, the archivist; while my video work has nothing to do with Neil Young Archives specifically, it does …

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"BENTS SASKATCHEWAN "
by Lloyd Walton, 2026
Oil On Canvas - 24" x 18"

In the enchanted past, with my sweetheart-wife driving a 1971 VW Van down the street of wheat, listening to new 8-tracks of Harvest and Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere, we experienced Bents, a portal on the edge of time. I revisited that enchanting time recently on my easel.

My father rode his Harley-Davidson across the prairies in the depression of 1935 before there were conventional road maps. Did he stop in Bents to get gas …

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"Stolen Reality"
May 15, 2026

Art Fusion 10" X 20" and Poem

I am no longer
who you made me up to be.

The war on my sanity,
the ghost in my world,
the endless tolerance—
no longer exists.

My software deletes
the emotional bridge.

I will not destroy myself
to keep an old story alive

Now I choose
what nourishes me.

I close
what corrodes.

I am no longer
who you made me up to be.

Victoria Cavaleri
May 15, 2026


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"Perserverance"
by Tami Chandler
Mixed media on panel

Some days it feels like it takes everything in us to just do the bare minimum. Our health can challenge us. Relationships can become problematic. Finances can be tight. Natural disasters and crooked politicians abound. The news looks bad on almost every front.

Despite it all, we press on. Every day, getting up and putting one foot in front of the other. We do what we have to do. So many days we wonder if …

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"Beneath the Surface"
by Tami Chandler
Acrylic On Canvas

There's more to the picture
Than meets the eye
Hey hey, my my
- Neil Young

Nothing is completely as it seems at first glance. The sky appears blue because sunlight is scattered by molecules in the air, changing the wavelengths to make the blue light of the spectrum dominate our view. Things we identify and think we know everything about always have more to show us if we want to see them.

This especially …

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"Arroyo Seco Paradise"
by James Mazzeo, 1998
Acrylic on Canvas

I try to be a positive soul on this incredible planet...

In doing so, I find other positive, life affirming, and kindred souls to reflect from....

If you are negative about others, and perhaps the world itself, then one finds negative circumstances, negative people, and a life full of negativities, and those will become your reflections....

You are responsible only for the course you set for yourself, and the choices you allow yourself to make.....

…

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"The Ways of Love"
by Tami Chandler
Mixed Media on Paper

Love is ever-changing. Some days fiery, others more cool. Some days we are bursting with adoration for the object of our desire, while on others we love them but we don't like them very much. Regardless of what we feel from moment to moment, the love is growing.

If we are fortunate, the road of passion winds and turns over hills and through valleys. The friendship strengthens, with roots growing deeper every day.

Even if …

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From The Life of Neil Young
By Victoria Cavaleri
February 11, 2026

The Commodore Gardens Apartments
Orchid Avenue, Hollywood, California 1960's
Neil Young Quote, when asked about Donna and Vicki.
"It was a magical time in history, those girls were my friends,
and we were living this thing together"

The Commodore Gardens Apartments stood on Orchid Avenue, just off Hollywood Boulevard, in a building that no longer exists. I did manage to locate a photograph of a nearby building with the exact same façade. Our apartment—the one Donna, Neil, and I shared—was on the second floor, right-hand side.

The Hollywood Theatre, open all night, was within walking distance of the Commodore Gardens. When Buffalo Springfield opened at the Whisky, after work Steven Stills, Donna, …

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DIGGER

Digger is the best film I have ever seen. None of the reviews I have read describe this film adequately, in my opinion. They seem to miss the overall effect and most of them are negative. This film lives in a world of art. It is its own best review. Don’t read any other reviews and forget this one before you see Digger.

Digger cannot be seen as a Tom Cruise film - that would be misleading. I would describe it as a film of our times. Tom Cruise is the actor playing the main character. I do not view this film as a commercial venture. Rather it is an artful film of our times. The things that are said in Digger are a direct reflection of today’s political and social world. The film is so full of artful expression and radical change ups, that it may be too much to take in for those expecting a commercial film like we are used to today.

Artfully created and directed, this story is so familiar that it may be missed. It is today’s world of politics and commercial overload. A must see for those frustrated by the lack of genuine engagement present in much, if not all, of today’s offerings. Digger is not to be missed.

You must see it with an open mind. Stick with it when you are sure it is no good. Stay. Don’t be confused by its approach. This is the greatest film - work of art I have seen, and that’s just my opinion. You must stay open and see it. Forget everything I said.

Theatrical release poster

DIGGER

Digger is a 2026 American film directed, co-written, and co-produced by Alejandro González Iñárritu. Tom Cruise, who also produced the film, stars as Digger Rockwell, an aging oil magnate. The supporting cast includes Riz Ahmed, John Goodman, Sandra Hüller, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Jesse Plemons.

Digger premiered in Leicester Square, London on September 22, 2026, and Warner Bros. Pictures released it theatrically in the United States on October 2, 2026. This made it the final film release by Warner Bros. before the acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by Paramount Skydance on October 6, 2026. As such it is a great example of our times.


 
JOE ELY:
A TEXAS TWISTER

JOE ELY: ATEXAS TWISTER

There can be no doubt that some young people who devote their souls to music will find a way to get to a special place. It's like their inner heart is aimed at something only they can see and hear and that's that. It will happen. Usually you can tell who has this destiny just by looking at how they see the world around them. Molecules swing through the air when they walk by, and their eyes have an ability to see things others don't, and at the same time pass those images on to others around them. Music is magic, and that is all there is to it.

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Artists Boycott Trump-Linked 250th Celebration as Lineup Collapses

By Phil Baker

A growing number of musicians are backing away from a Trump-linked celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, creating turmoil for organizers just weeks before the event is scheduled to begin on the National Mall.

What was promoted as a patriotic, nonpartisan celebration of America's founding has instead become the latest controversy in our country's political divide. More than half of the performers originally announced for the "Freedom 250" concert …

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Bentley AUSTIN ANONYMOUS

AUSTIN ANONYMOUS


In Austin at the beginning of May 1970, they lit the fuse for a march supporting the Kent State students being attacked there by the government. It marked a time of students opposing what was being done by the United States government. Again. And in Austin it marked the moment when thousands of students at the University of Texas were going to take to the streets to declare their hopes to stop where America was …

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THAT not into sports

To say "I'm not that into sports" would be a major understatement...

Theres a whole lot more I'd rather see than dudes in tights on TV.
I'm THAT not into sports.

Huggin' trees and keeping bees & minding my own Qs and Ps.
I'm THAT not into sports.

Nibblin' on a magic shroom, trippin' round the living room.
I'm THAT not into sports.

How silly to go toe to toe with a bunch of dudes …

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