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Neil Young vs Lynyrd Skynyrd: Feud Explained

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Which of these two bands are your favourite? Take a listen to the below two tracks. Want to shout out your favourite of the two , or share experiences etc then please leave it in the comments , id love the comments section to be alive and kicking for these posts. Stand up for your favourite!

This feud comes down mostly to Neil Young mocking the deep south in the USA and members of Lynyrd Skynyrd taking offence to this. The latter even named checked the former in their song Sweet Home Alabama!

“I hope Neil Young will remember, a southern man don’t need him around anyhow.”

Neil Young – Heart of Gold (All Rights Are Retained By Neil Young)
Lynyrd Skynyrd – Sweet Home Alabama (All Rights Are Retained By Lynyrd Skynyrd)

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As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here .

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60 responses to “Neil Young vs Lynyrd Skynyrd: Feud Explained”

  1. Ajinkya Rane avatar
    Ajinkya Rane

    Neil Young’s Southern Man is my favourite song of all time!

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Nice!! What draws you to it ?

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
      1. Ajinkya Rane avatar
        Ajinkya Rane

        The music and the harrowing!

        Like

        Reply
        1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
          Fox Reviews Rock

          Nice! 🙂

          Liked by 1 person

          Reply
  2. michael branscáth avatar
    michael branscáth

    I’m partial to Neil Young, especially in the Harvest era of his music.

    I enjoy listening to Lynyrd Skynyrd, but more as a casual listener. Hand’s down… Neil gets my vote.

    Liked by 5 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Fair enough, what draws you to Neil’s music in general ?

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
      1. michael branscáth avatar
        michael branscáth

        I really got to know Neil’s music when I went from playing goth bass guitar to teaching myself acoustic guitar. In all honesty, I stumbled onto his sheet music for Decade on the cheap and that was how I started learning to play my new instrument.

        I also appreciate his tendency to do Neil instead of doing what people think Neil should be doing. 🙂

        Liked by 2 people

        Reply
        1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
          Fox Reviews Rock

          Well thats one hell of a way to associate yourself and your memories to a musician !

          Liked by 1 person

          Reply
  3. Michael Sammut avatar
    Michael Sammut

    On this occasion I choose Lynyrd Skynyrd

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Who would it need to be up against to not choose them ? 😁

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  4. isabellawolgoth avatar
    isabellawolgoth

    You “don’t need him around anyhow.”

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      🤘🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  5. Popi avatar
    Popi

    Neil Young was a crusader. Lynyrd were musicians first and foremost, and good ole southern boys too.

    made for some interesting back and forth.

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Which one do you think had the better song ?

      Like

      Reply
      1. Popi avatar
        Popi

        Oh, hell. Impossible to choose. I learned guitar in Vietnam from a hippie. He was drafted too. The first song I learned was Southern Man. My mentor was really good and could play anything. Me, not so much. Lynyrd was way beyond my fingers at that time-erm, still is for that matter. 😏 The red necks (OOOPS!) in our platoon loved Lynyrd and wanted Neil’s head on a platter.

        Like I said – interesting back and forth.

        Liked by 2 people

        Reply
        1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
          Fox Reviews Rock

          That’s a really interesting tale thanks so much for telling us that ! 🙂 is there a particular song your platoon liked outside of lynyrd and Neil?

          Liked by 1 person

          Reply
          1. Popi avatar
            Popi

            Of course. “We gotta get outta this place” – The Animals. And almost anything Credence, but Fortunate Son for sure’

            Liked by 1 person

            Reply
  6. Willie Torres Jr. avatar
    Willie Torres Jr.

    Oh wow !!! This one is definitely a tough one… Because of his powerful song writing and deep emotions I have to go with Neil Young.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Nice choice , not one I’d go with but I can respect that !

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
      1. Willie Torres Jr. avatar
        Willie Torres Jr.

        Well, Sweet Home Alabama has gotten more playing time and people know it way more than anything of Neil Young. But I grew up in the early 70’s, so I can relate more with Neil. Plus he’s a Hippy, so there is that. HaHaHa.

        Liked by 2 people

        Reply
        1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
          Fox Reviews Rock

          Haha! Fair enough 🙂

          Like

          Reply
  7. Leon Stevens avatar
    Leon Stevens

    If it wasn’t for Neil, we wouldn’t have one of the greatest rock songs out there.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Thats very true 🙂👍🏻

      Like

      Reply
  8. Cee Tee Jackson avatar
    Cee Tee Jackson

    Skynyrd all the way!

    Neil Young’s cool enough and I do like his music, but for energy and a fun night it has to be LYnyrd Skynyrd – certainly the 1970s version.

    I was lucky enough to see them twice, mid-70s and their shows rank among the best I’ve seen.

    I still never tire of listening to them.

    (COLIN … LOUD HORIZON.)

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Absolutely jealous that you have seen them!

      Like

      Reply
  9. Stephen J Frankenberry avatar
    Stephen J Frankenberry

    Gotta go with Neil here, if asked for a choice.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Any reason why? 🙂

      Like

      Reply
      1. Stephen J Frankenberry avatar
        Stephen J Frankenberry

        He is more and alt country rocker for me which I am a fan of, especially some 80’s and 90’s stuff, the Del Fuegos or the Old 97’s or Uncle Tupelo type bands, or one of my favorites 16 Horsepower (I highly recommend their album Sackcloth and Ashes by the way). I’ve never really been a southern rock guy though I understand there is a really fine line there, especially with Skynyrd as I don’t pigeonhole them there as much as I might with, say an Outlaws or a Molly Hatchet. I just know that I never had any interest in buying a Skynyrd record as opposed to Neil of who I own quite a few.

        Liked by 2 people

        Reply
  10. Greg Dennison avatar
    Greg Dennison

    I like both songs, but I’m going to tend to lean toward Skynyrd just because I think the South gets a lot of crap that it doesn’t deserve from stuck up snobs.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Absolutely fair reason 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  11. Divinity Brownwood avatar
    Divinity Brownwood

    I have to go with Neil cause it was one of the first songs I learned to play on acoustic guitar … fond memories of jamming in class to this song – plus he set the bar to get smashed in Skynyrds song so ya gotta put the horse before the cart 😛

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Fair enough! 🙂 Wish i could play the guitar!

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
      1. Divinity Brownwood avatar
        Divinity Brownwood

        You could always try to learn how … it’s only too late if you are dead 🤘 need a teacher?

        Liked by 1 person

        Reply
        1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
          Fox Reviews Rock

          Haha I simply dont have the time , or the hand size (Honestly they are so small i cant even reach the orange buttons on the guitar hero controllers )

          Liked by 1 person

          Reply
          1. Divinity Brownwood avatar
            Divinity Brownwood

            🤣 well I’m little too, 5’2″ and I still managed

            Liked by 1 person

            Reply
            1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
              Fox Reviews Rock

              Maybe if i can learn how to stretch my hands first 😉 to put it into context i often have smaller hands than even the smallest women (and im a 5ft 7 man haha)

              Liked by 1 person

              Reply
              1. Divinity Brownwood avatar
                Divinity Brownwood

                Well they always say good things come in small packages 😉

                Liked by 1 person

                Reply
  12. Tom Myrick avatar
    Tom Myrick

    Growing up in the South has always been a meaningful experience for me. The sense of community, the rich history, and the love for music are just a few of the things that make this region unique. As someone who grew up and lives in the South, I can say Lynyrd Skynyrd, hands down. ’Sweet Home Alabama’ is the South’s national anthem. It’s a song that has been ingrained in my memories since childhood, and it holds a special place in my heart.

    Every time I hear the opening chords of “Sweet Home Alabama,” I am transported back to my youth, to warm summer nights and the comforting embrace of Southern hospitality. The song serves as a reminder of the beauty of my home, the strong spirit of its people, and the pride that comes with being a Southerner.

    The music of Lynyrd Skynyrd has been the soundtrack to many memorable moments in my life. Whether it’s driving down country roads with the windows down, attending lively backyard barbecues, or simply sitting on the porch and watching the world go by, their music has been a constant companion. It’s a reminder of where I come from and the values that have shaped me.

    As I reflect on the impact of “Sweet Home Alabama,” I realize that it’s more than just a song. It’s a symbol of resilience, tradition, and the enduring spirit of the South. It represents the pride we take in our roots and the deep-seated love we have for our home. For me, “Sweet Home Alabama” will always be more than just a song – it’s a part of who I am.

    As someone who grew up and lives in the South, I can say Lynyrd Skynyrd, hands down. ’Sweet Home Alabama’ is the South’s national anthem.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  13. Debbie D. avatar
    Debbie D.

    You posted “Heart of Gold” here, but it’s “Southern Man” that pissed off Lynyrd Skynyrd. 😆 The dispute no doubt contributed to record sales for both artists. Speaking as a Canadian, Neil Young is a bit closer to my heart. In addition to his amazing talent, I admire that he’s not afraid to speak his mind. I like both songs, but “Southern Man” elicits more of an emotional response, so I choose Neil over L.S.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      I suspect that half the time these feuds are all made up purely to rile people up and drive sales.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  14. RasmaSandra avatar
    RasmaSandra

    As far as the songs go I like them both equally. I am rather more partial to Neil Young but Lynyrd Skynrd also has a lot to like.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Agreed they both have loads to like tbh 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  15. mjeanpike avatar
    mjeanpike

    Nothing against Neil, but definitely Lynyrd Skynyrd.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  16. Magodlamaggabongile avatar
    Magodlamaggabongile

    Nice😎

    Like

    Reply
  17. perspicaciousoutcast avatar
    perspicaciousoutcast

    Lynyrd Skynyrd get my vote. It is a shame tragedy befell them.
    I have lost count of how many times I have played songs such as Free Bird, Tuesday’s Gone, Simple Man and of course Sweet Home Alabama.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Me too! Amazing songs and musicians

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  18. Aaradhyaa avatar
    Aaradhyaa

    Interesting looking forward for part 2

    Like

    Reply
  19. Frank Hudson avatar
    Frank Hudson

    Speaking of Neil Young as an electric guitar player: one thing I recall him saying about his approach there: “I don’t want to sound like a professional guitar player.” Odd — he’s a man who’s been paid for decades to be a musician playing guitar.

    What value might come from that approach? About halfway into this live performance, Young starts his first electric guitar solo. It doesn’t sound like anything you’d expect a veteran musician to play. Neither does the 2nd solo that finishes the song’s performance.

    Does it still communicate something? Does it still move you?

    Music is individual — maybe it doesn’t. But for me it does.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
    1. Frank Hudson avatar
      Frank Hudson

      Unprofessionally, I forgot to include the link to the performance. Here it is:

      Like

      Reply
  20. satyam rastogi avatar
    satyam rastogi

    Nice post 🎸🎸

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Thank you!

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
      1. satyam rastogi avatar
        satyam rastogi

        Welcome dear friend 🌹🌹

        Liked by 1 person

        Reply
  21. St Jimmy avatar
    St Jimmy

    Love both but I’m going to go with Lynyrd Skynyrd on this one.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Think I side the same way

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  22. writinstuff avatar
    writinstuff

    While Heart of Gold is a great song, something about that haunting guitar intro always sticks with me, Lynyrd Skynyrd is on my list of bands I always listen to. Multiple songs across different playlists and when I got my non-American husband to fall in love with them it was even better!

    My father was really into classic rock and when I was a baby it kind of took root in my heart and my DNA.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Classic rock is the best 😁🤘

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  23. gwengrant avatar
    gwengrant

    Such a virbrant blog. Than you.

    Gwen.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      Thanks very much ❤️

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  24. gwengrant avatar
    gwengrant

    I meant ‘vibrant’!
    Gwen.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Fox Reviews Rock avatar
      Fox Reviews Rock

      No worries thanks so much

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

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