Neil Young released a rare live version of his song “Pardon My Heart” on his video series Fireside Sessions. The song last played 50 years ago has created significant discussion in the music community. " Pardon My Heart " a track featured on his 1975 album Zuma represents a deep look into his personal music catalog by the musician for his audiences after performing other material in past episodes like “Silver and Gold” in previous sessions.
"Pardon My Heart" Returns to Live Setting After Original 1974 Performances in New York
“Pardon My Heart” was initially performed May 16th 1974 when Neil Young did a surprise show at New York City’s Bottom Line after Ry Cooder's performance which he mentioned “I wrote this sad love song”. The song surfaced a second time at a Crosby Stills Nash and Young concert August 15 1974 held at Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale New York demonstrating an extreme rarity for a live track among many of his past catalog. After those two instances of live performances "Pardon My Heart" remained unplayed until the recent 2024 digital release.
Recording Session Reveals Context: The Emotional Turmoil Behind "Pardon My Heart" at Broken Arrow Ranch
Neil Young originally recorded “Pardon My Heart” June 16th 1974 at his personal Broken Arrow Ranch studio with assistance from Tim Drummond on bass alongside Ralph Molina and Billy Talbot both of Crazy Horse. The same day also produced "Homefires," "Love Is a Rose," "Hawaiian Sunrise," plus “L.A. Boys and Ocean Girls" revealing that many deeply personal tracks created at that period with intense emotional weight after his split with Carrie Snodgress actor and mother of his son Zeke. The Broken Arrow Ranch studio became an important space during that critical personal and artistic journey. Tim Drummond Ralph Molina and Billy Talbot provide important supporting roles for the music during this process adding depth to all musical compositions.
Neil Young Initially Felt Too "Embarrassed" for Song Release But Changed His Mind on Inclusion in Zuma
"Pardon My Heart" stayed unreleased in his vault for over a year due to the personal nature of lyrics. Neil Young mentioned to Rolling Stone writer Cameron Crowe in August 1974 how Joni Mitchell describes her personal life so much more directly than himself adding “I put a veil over what I am talking about”. Neil mentioned "Home Fires" "Love Art Blues" along with almost all Homegrown in reference to this level of personal intensity calling those song "a little too real" to put out in public. Young changed direction shortly thereafter adding "Pardon My Heart" in Zuma and after a long wait released all of Homegrown showing his change in feelings toward past creative work.
The Importance Of Emotional Honesty And Creative Expression In Neil Young's Album “Homegrown”
Neil Young expressed that “Homegrown” reveals his sad side regarding relationships showing the damages of heartache while admitting “I should have shared it. It’s actually beautiful.” at the release showing change in perspective. The artist demonstrated how years between creating and release offer new layers of understanding and context for all that were connected to those projects both to himself and for the fans who admire the musicians music style and work ethic.
New Music on the Horizon: Neil Young Confirms New Album with Chrome Hearts and Producer Lou Adler
Neil Young did not release new albums since 2022 World Record but recently recorded another LP with producer Lou Adler that is titled Talking to the Trees while being backed by the newly formed Chrome Hearts band. He communicated he could not write songs during that period however that recent songs "blew my mind" which demonstrates his passion and continuing work output. The new project demonstrates great growth and passion despite a hiatus demonstrating the musician always works toward perfection and innovation. He expressed that he felt incredibly “grateful” for this creative process alongside the talent who aided him to his new sound.
Health Setbacks and Formation of Chrome Hearts Band During Summer 2024
Neil Young formed Chrome Hearts band earlier this year following a summer tour cancellation with Crazy Horse citing an undisclosed health concern. Chrome Hearts includes Micah Nelson playing guitar Spooner Oldham playing organ Anthony Logerfo on drums along with Corey McCormick on bass. This new formation by Neil Young came after his own self described period without producing music following significant setbacks in the summer months. Chrome Hearts unveiled their unique sound at Farm Aid September 21 in addition to playing shows at Capitol Theater in Port Chester New York demonstrating a significant debut of a new collaborative group.
Future Plans for Performances and Venues from Chrome Hearts in the United States and Europe
Neil Young stated in interviews he will travel Europe and hopefully perform throughout the United States with all future concert events will take place outdoors due to concerns relating to Covid safety. Despite a focus on new music Neil Young and his band still offer rare performances of past music while demonstrating high creative output with a new band and planned new songs indicating significant progress for Neil Young's body of musical work while always moving toward fresh and unique approaches.