Neil Young has once again delved into his extensive archives for the latest installment of his Fireside Sessions, treating fans to the first performance of “Pardon My Heart” in over 50 years. Shared exclusively on his Neil Young Archives website, the intimate rendition follows a recent rare performance of “Silver and Gold” on December 25, offering a glimpse into Young’s deep musical vault.
Originally released on Neil Young & Crazy Horse’s 1975 album Zuma, “Pardon My Heart” had only been performed twice prior to this latest revival—and never since its official release. Its debut took place on May 16, 1974, at the Bottom Line in New York, where Young surprised the audience with an impromptu set after a Ry Cooder show. Before playing the song, Young described it as “one of the saddest love songs I’ve ever heard” and admitted he had only recently written it. Its second and final live performance occurred just months later, on August 15, during Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young’s reunion tour.
“Pardon My Heart” is widely believed to reflect Young’s emotional struggles following the dissolution of his relationship with actress Carrie Snodgress, who also inspired much of his deeply personal 2020 release, Homegrown. Despite being recorded in the mid-1970s, Homegrown remained shelved for decades, adding to its mystique as one of Young’s most vulnerable projects.
The Fireside Sessions have reignited interest in Young’s archive material while hinting at new creative endeavors. In addition to these rare performances, Young recently announced the release of a forthcoming album, Talking to the Trees, and revealed plans for a North American and European tour with his new band, Chrome Hearts.
Fans are now eagerly awaiting more potential gems from the Fireside Sessions series as Young continues blending nostalgia with fresh musical ventures, proving that even after decades in the industry, he still has more stories to tell—and songs to sing.
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