Young Shakespeare

Folk · 2021 · 12 tracks

Young Shakespeare

A pristine 1971 solo acoustic performance by Neil Young, 'Young Shakespeare' offers an intimate glimpse into his songwriting genius just prior to 'Harvest.' Raw, vulnerable, and historically significa

March 26, 2021 · Reprise Records

Imagine a dimly lit stage, a single spotlight, and Neil Young alone with his acoustic guitar and harmonica, pouring his heart out. 'Young Shakespeare' is a time capsule, capturing the raw, unvarnished essence of Young's early 70s songwriting. It's a deeply personal listen, perfect for those moments when you need to feel something real, stripped of all pretense. AllMusic praised its historical value and the raw intimacy, making it an essential listen for fans and a poignant entry point for newcomers.

Tracklist · 12 Tracks

01

Tell Me Why

2:36

02

Old Man

4:08

03

The Needle and the Damage Done

3:47

04

Ohio

3:02

05

Dance Dance Dance

2:26

06

Cowgirl in the Sand

4:21

07

A Man Needs a Maid / Heart of Gold (medley)

6:55

08

Journey Through the Past

3:34

09

Don’t Let It Bring You Down

2:56

10

Helpless

3:49

11

Down by the River

4:11

12

Sugar Mountain

8:40

Moments Worth Listening For

The raw, almost fragile quality of Young's voice during a particularly introspective ballad, where every crack and waver adds to the emotional weight.

The intricate fingerpicking on acoustic guitar, showcasing his often-understated instrumental prowess, especially when paired with a melancholic harmonica solo.

The palpable sense of connection with the audience during a moment of quiet applause or a shared laugh, highlighting the intimacy of the solo performance.

The subtle shifts in dynamics, from hushed verses to slightly more emphatic choruses, demonstrating the power of a single voice and guitar.

Reviews

AllMusic

Where This Album Departs

How does Young Shakespeare sound next to the rest of Neil Young's catalogue?

Baritone+2.2σ

The vocals lean far further into baritone than the rest of the catalogue.

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