Old Ways
Neil Young · 1985
36 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock · blues · folk rock
A reflective journey through country-inflected rock, blending nostalgia with hard-edged storytelling.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- reflective storytelling with nostalgia steady mid-tempo listening experience for evening drives
- Context
- Released on August 12, 1985, 'Old Ways' marked Neil Young's return to a more traditional country sound after his experimentation in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Following the critical and commercial success of albums like 'Rust Never Sleeps' and 'Live Rust,' this album represented a shift back to his roots, showcasing Young's versatility as an artist.
- If you like
- alternative rock, blues, folk rock
Old Ways is an album by Neil Young, released in 1985. A reflective journey through country-inflected rock, blending nostalgia with hard-edged storytelling. 'Old Ways' charted at number 22 on the Billboard 200 and received a mixed critical reception, often noted for its blend of classic country influences. Despite its divisive reviews, the album contributed to Young’s ongoing exploration of Americana and country music themes, influencing subsequent artists in the genre. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Old Ways sound like?
A reflective journey through country-inflected rock, blending nostalgia with hard-edged storytelling. Rooted in alternative rock and blues.
What makes Old Ways by Neil Young notable?
'Old Ways' charted at number 22 on the Billboard 200 and received a mixed critical reception, often noted for its blend of classic country influences. Despite its divisive reviews, the album contributed to Young’s ongoing exploration of Americana and country music themes, influencing subsequent artists in the genre. Released on August 12, 1985, 'Old Ways' marked Neil Young's return to a more traditional country sound after his experimentation in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Following the critical and commercial success of albums like 'Rust Never Sleeps' and 'Live Rust,' this album represented a shift back to his roots, showcasing Young's versatility as an artist.
Who is Old Ways for?
Old Ways works well if you're into reflective storytelling with nostalgia, steady mid-tempo listening experience and for evening drives.
How many songs are on Old Ways?
Old Ways has 10 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Wayward Wind 3:12
- 2 Get Back to the Country 2:50
- 3 Are There Any More Real Cowboys? Standout 3:03
- 4 Once an Angel 3:55
- 5 Misfits Standout 5:07
- 6 California Sunset Standout 2:56
- 7 Old Ways 3:08
- 8 My Boy 3:37
- 9 Bound for Glory 5:48
- 10 Where Is the Highway Tonight? 3:02
Release Date
August 12, 1985
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
36 min 43 sec
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