Attention Young Music Lovers! This week, music sensation MJ Lenderman dropped by The Adam Friedland Show and revealed his ultimate musical inspiration—none other than Neil Young! Totally expected, right? Lenderman has been compared to the legendary singer-songwriter since he wowed us with his solo album Manning Fireworks back in 2024.
“I grew up believing that every band I like is somehow influenced by Neil Young,” he said previously. “He’s my number one.” And guess what? MJ even loves to bring Young’s hits to life on stage! Check out some of the Young tracks he's given his magical touch.
Track: “Lotta Love”
Originally on Young's album Comes a Time (1978), Lenderman has covered it 43 times! This track really hit home for him during his European tour in late 2024, especially with the heated political climate back in the U.S.
“This song was originally about relationships, but with everything happening around the world—especially in America—this song has taken on a new meaning for me.”
Young’s partner, Nicolette Larson, made this song a hit, reaching No. 8 back in the day. Fun fact—Neil himself thought Nicolette was a fearless performer!
Other Comes a Time songs MJ should cover:
- “Goin’ Back”
- “Already One”
- “Four Strong Winds”
Track: “Powderfinger”
From the classic Rust Never Sleeps, Lenderman has rocked this track 7 awesome times. A modern Western masterpiece, it’s all about youth, bravery, and a pinch of tragedy.
Joined by his talented bandmates and his ex-bandmate from Wednesday, Karly Hartzman, who smashes it with her amazing backing vocals, Lenderman totally owns it every time!
Must-cover tracks from Rust Never Sleeps:
- “Thrasher”
- “Pocahontas”
- “Sail Away”
Track: “On the Beach”
Lenderman has only performed this track once, but it’s a heavy hitter, capturing heartbreak in the wake of the Sixties. If you haven’t yet, add Neil Young’s On the Beach to your playlist now—it’s timeless!