Neil Young and Bob Dylan have maintained a long-standing reciprocal creative connection. The Canadian artist was inspired to start writing after encountering Dylan’s early work, gaining experience in the folk scene. Meanwhile, Dylan felt motivated by Young’s ‘Heart Of Gold’, recognizing genuine talent in it.
The two legendary artists have occasionally performed together, and Neil Young’s 1990 track ‘Days That Used To Be’ – initially titled ‘Letter To Bob’ – included a direct message aimed at his peer and rival.
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On Neil Young’s powerful 1991 live album ‘Weld’, the songwriter channels Dylan’s work to express his own feelings. Collaborating with longtime bandmates Crazy Horse, he strives to reflect the weight of the Gulf War, which was prevalent in the news as the band toured across North America.
Returning to the rock sound that characterized his 70s music, it was revitalized with Young serving as a mentor to the nascent grunge movement.
‘Weld’ showcases many standout moments throughout its substantial duration, yet few are as impactful as his rendition of ‘Blowin’ In The Wind’. The original features a straightforward arrangement with guitar chords, vocals, and harmonica; however, this ‘Gulf War version’ starts with air raid sound effects before erupting into a powerful Crazy Horse-enhanced sound.
He would later reflect: “We were present through it all, and to me, that’s what ‘Weld’ represents. It’s quite brutal, particularly the songs with the dramatic endings. I aimed to capture the essence of violence and conflict, heavy machinery, and sheer destruction.”
“We were constantly watching CNN, witnessing these events unfold, and then going out to perform, singing songs about conflict. It was a difficult experience. I felt there was nothing else I could do. Bringing people together was more crucial than just playing a new song. We couldn’t simply go out there and be entertainment…”
Experience the performance again below.
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Neil Young and Bob Dylan share a long-standing creative partnership. The Canadian artist felt inspired to write after listening to Dylan's early work.