NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" Vinyl LP Album

- 1977 French Release on REPRISE Records

  This release is for the French market of"American Stars 'n Bars" is the eighth studio album by Canadian musician Neil Young, released in 1977. The album included "Like a Hurricane", one of Young's best-known songs. The album was produced by Neil Young and David Briggs with Tim Mulligan ("Star of Bethlehem" was produced by Elliot Mazer).

 

Front Cover Photo Of NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" LP Vinyl Album

American Stars 'N Bars: Neil Young's Patchwork Quilt of Americana
Album Description:

It was 1977, a time when the hangover from the 60s was in full swing and the musical landscape was shifting beneath everyone's feet. Punk was snarling in the alleyways, disco was strutting in the clubs, and Neil Young was... well, Neil Young was being Neil Young. Which is to say, he was zigging when everyone else was zagging, releasing the sprawling, schizophrenic "American Stars 'N Bars," an album that was as much a statement of defiance as it was a collection of songs.

"American Stars 'N Bars" is a patchwork quilt of Americana, stitched together from disparate sessions spanning several years. It's country, it's rock, it's folk, it's even a little bit funky at times. It's a testament to Young's restless spirit and his refusal to be pigeonholed.

Side One kicks off with the mournful fiddle and pedal steel of "The Old Country Waltz," a song that sounds like it was beamed in straight from the Grand Ole Opry. It's followed by the jaunty "Saddle Up The Palomino," a co-write with Bobby Charles that showcases Young's love of roots music. Then comes "Hey Babe," a tender ballad that features some of Young's most heartfelt vocals. The side closes with two contrasting tracks: the melancholic "Hold Back The Tears" and the raucous, Crazy Horse-backed "Bite The Bullet."

Side Two is where things get really interesting. "Star of Bethlehem," a leftover from the abandoned "Homegrown" sessions, is a gorgeous acoustic ballad that shimmers with melancholy beauty. "Will To Love," meanwhile, is a sprawling, eight-minute epic that veers from delicate fingerpicking to full-on electric guitar freakouts. It's a testament to Young's willingness to experiment and push boundaries. The album closes with two classics: the anthemic "Like a Hurricane," which features one of Young's most iconic guitar solos, and the gentle, nostalgic "Homegrown."

"American Stars 'N Bars" was recorded at a variety of studios, including Young's own Broken Arrow Ranch and the legendary Village Recorders in Los Angeles. The production team, led by Young himself and longtime collaborator David Briggs, captured the raw energy of Young's performances while also adding subtle touches of studio magic.

The album was met with mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised its eclecticism and its raw emotional power, while others dismissed it as a messy hodgepodge. It's true that "American Stars 'N Bars" is not a cohesive album in the traditional sense. But that's precisely what makes it so fascinating. It's a snapshot of an artist in a state of constant flux, refusing to be bound by genre conventions or commercial expectations.

In the years since its release, "American Stars 'N Bars" has become a cult favorite among Neil Young fans. It's an album that rewards repeated listens, revealing new layers of meaning and beauty with each spin. It's a testament to the enduring power of Neil Young's music, and a reminder that even his most flawed albums are still worth exploring.

Music Genre:

American Folk Country Rock 

Album Production Information:

The album: "NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars" was produced by: eil Young & David Briggs with Tim Mulligan, Elliot Mazer

Sound/Recording Engineer(s):

This album was recorded at: 13 December 1974 - 4 April , 1977 Quadrafonic, Nashville; Wally Heider Studios, Hollywood, California; Broken Arrow Ranch, Redwood City, California; Indigo Recording Studio, Malibu

Album cover design: Dean Stockwell

The album cover was designed by a friend of Young's, actor Dean Stockwell, and features Connie Moskos keeled over with a bottle of Canadian whisky in her hand and an intoxicated Young with his face pressed against the glass floor.

Record Label & Catalognr:

Reprise Records 54 088

Album Packaging:

This album "NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram 

Year & Country:

1977 Made in France
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars
    Band: Neil Young, Crazy Horse and The Bullets April 1977
  • Neil Young

    Neil Young, born: Neil Percival Young, born on 12 November 1945, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, is a legendary singer, songwriter, and guitarist. Renowned for his distinctive voice, poetic lyrics, and versatile musical style, Neil Young has established himself as one of the most influential and enduring musicians of his generation.

    Young's passion for music was evident from an early age. He began playing the ukulele at the age of five, and by his teenage years, he had already taken up the guitar and harmonica. Inspired by artists like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry, he formed his first bands, The Jades and subsequently The Squires, in his early teens. These early experiences ignited Young's desire to pursue a career in music.

    In the mid-1960s, Neil Young co-founded the band Buffalo Springfield, which became a prominent part of the burgeoning folk-rock scene. Their self-titled debut album in 1966 showcased Young's songwriting skills and featured the classic track "For What It's Worth," which became an anthem for the 1960s counterculture movement. Despite internal conflicts, Buffalo Springfield released three albums before disbanding in 1968.

    more...

    Following the breakup of Buffalo Springfield, Young embarked on a highly successful solo career that would span several decades. His debut solo album, "Neil Young," was released in 1968, and he followed it up with a string of critically acclaimed albums, including "Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere" (1969), which introduced his backing band, Crazy Horse. This album featured the classic tracks "Cinnamon Girl" and "Down by the River," solidifying his reputation as a masterful songwriter and guitarist.

    Throughout the 1970s, Neil Young released a series of influential albums that showcased his musical versatility. Albums like "After the Gold Rush" (1970) and "Harvest" (1972) brought him widespread commercial success and produced timeless classics such as "Heart of Gold" and "Old Man." Young's music during this period was characterized by his introspective lyrics, melodic hooks, and his ability to effortlessly switch between acoustic folk and electric rock.

    Neil Young's career took various creative turns in the subsequent decades. He formed several different backing bands, including the country-rock-oriented Stray Gators and the hard-hitting Crazy Horse, with whom he would collaborate intermittently throughout his career. Young continued to experiment with his sound and tackle a diverse range of topics in his music, often using his platform to address social and political issues.

    Young's discography is vast and diverse, and he has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including "Rust Never Sleeps" (1979), "Freedom" (1989), and "Harvest Moon" (1992). His willingness to explore different genres, from rock and folk to country and grunge, has solidified his status as an iconoclastic artist who refuses to be confined by conventional boundaries.

    In addition to his solo work, Neil Young has collaborated with various musicians, including Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, with whom he produced politically charged anthems like "Ohio" and "Woodstock." He has also been an advocate for environmental causes, most notably with his involvement in the annual Farm Aid concerts, which raise funds and awareness for family farmers.

    Neil Young's contributions to music have earned him numerous accolades and inductions into prestigious halls of fame, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995. His artistic integrity, unwavering commitment to his vision, and ability to connect with audiences through his honest and emotive music have made him an enduring and beloved figure in the world of rock and folk music.

    Even after decades in the industry, Neil Young remains an active musician, continually creating new music and captivating audiences with his live performances. His legacy as a singer, songwriter, and guitarist continues to inspire generations of musicians, ensuring that his influential voice will resonate for years to come.

  • Linda Ronstadt

    Linda Ronstadt was a powerhouse vocalist known for her versatility, tackling genres from rock to country to Mexican folk. With her soaring voice and charismatic stage presence, she became a 70s icon, earning numerous accolades and inspiring countless artists.

  • Emmylou Harris

    Emmylou Harris is a revered singer-songwriter known for her crystalline vocals, impeccable harmonies, and deep connection to country and Americana roots. Her collaborative spirit and profound respect for musical tradition have made her a beloved figure, influencing generations of artists and earning her numerous accolades.

  • Nicole Larson
  • Carole Mayedo
Complete Track-listing of the album "NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars"

The detailed tracklist of this record "NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars" is:

    Side One:
  1. The Old Country Waltz
  2. Saddle Up The Palamino
  3. Hey Babe
  4. Hold Back The Tears
  5. Bite The Bullet
    Side Two:
  1. Star of Bethlehem
  2. Will To Love
  3. Like a Hurricane
  4. Homegrown

NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" LP Vinyl Album High Resolution & Quality Photos

Front Cover Photo Of NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" LP Vinyl Album
Front Cover Photo Of NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" LP Vinyl Album

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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )

Photo Of The Back Cover NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" LP Vinyl Album
Photo of album back cover NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" LP Vinyl Album

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Photo One Of The Original Custom Inner Sleeve NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" LP Vinyl Album
Photo One Of The Original Custom Inner Sleeve NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" LP Vinyl Album

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Photo Two of the original custom inner sleeve NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" LP Vinyl Album
Photo Two of the original custom inner sleeve  NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" LP Vinyl Album

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Close up of record's label NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" LP Vinyl Album Side One:
Close up of record's label NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars 12" LP Vinyl Album Side One

Yellow Colour REPRISE Records No 54 088 Record Label Details: SACEM ℗ 1977 Warner Bros Records

Harvest Moon to Ragged Glory: Neil Young's Iconic Vinyl Discography of Four Decades.

NEIL YOUNG - After the Gold Rush
NEIL YOUNG - After the Gold Rush album front cover vinyl record

Produced by Neil Young and David Briggs, "After the Gold Rush" features a stellar lineup of musicians who contribute their talents to the album. Young himself takes on multiple roles, playing guitar, piano, harmonica, vibes

After the Gold Rush 12" Vinyl LP
NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars (France and German Releases)
NEIL YOUNG - American Stars & Bars (France and German Releases) album front cover vinyl record

The album cover was designed by a friend of Young's, actor Dean Stockwell, and features Connie Moskos keeled over with a bottle of Canadian whisky in her hand and an intoxicated Young with his face pressed against the glass floor.

- American Stars & Bars (1977, France) - American Stars and Bars ( 1977, Germany)
NEIL YOUNG - Comes A Time
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Neil Young's "Comes a Time" album, featuring collaboration with J.J. Cale, is a remarkable piece of musical artistry that encapsulates the essence of the 1970s folk-rock era.

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NEIL YOUNG - Harvest (French & German Releases)
NEIL YOUNG - Harvest (French & German Releases)  album front cover vinyl record

Harvest is the fourth studio album by Canadian musician Neil Young, released in 1972. It featured the London Symphony Orchestra on two tracks, while noted guests David Crosby, Graham Nash, Linda Ronstadt, Stephen Stills

NEIL YOUNG - Harvest (1972, France) NEIL YOUNG - Harvest (1972, Germany)
NEIL YOUNG & CRAZY HORSE - Live Rust
NEIL YOUNG & CRAZY HORSE - Live Rust  album front cover vinyl record

Live albums hold a special place in the hearts of music enthusiasts. They capture the energy, spontaneity, and raw emotion that can only be experienced in a live setting. "Live Rust" exemplifies this in every way

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NEIL YOUNG - Old Ways
NEIL YOUNG - Old Ways album front cover vinyl record

The production of "Old Ways" reflects Neil Young's commitment to authenticity. Co-producing the album alongside Ben Keith and David Briggs, Young ensured that every note and lyric carried the essence of his artistic vision

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NEIL YOUNG - On the Beach
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"On the Beach" 12" Vinyl LP, released in 1974, epitomizes the introspective folk-rock era. Set against the backdrop of the turbulent '70s, the album explores themes of disillusionment and societal critique.

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NEIL YOUNG - Rust Never Sleeps
NEIL YOUNG - Rust Never Sleeps album front cover vinyl record

"Rust Never Sleeps" is an album by Neil Young and Crazy Horse released in 1979. The bulk of the album was recorded live at San Francisco's Cow Palace, with overdubs added. Audience noise is removed as much as possible,

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NEIL YOUNG & THE BLUE NOTES - This Notes For you
NEIL YOUNG & THE BLUE NOTES - This Notes For you  album front cover vinyl record

The album featured Neil Young collaborating with The Bluenotes, a band comprised of talented musicians, each contributing their distinctive styles to the overall sound.

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NEIL YOUNG - Times Fades Away
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"Time Fades Away" emerged in the midst of an era defined by political upheaval, cultural shifts, and a deep sense of introspection. Young's decision to release a live album, capturing the raw energy of his performances

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NEIL YOUNG - Tonight's the Night
NEIL YOUNG - Tonight's the Night  album front cover vinyl record

"Tonight's The Night" serves as a cathartic reflection on the tragic losses that Neil Young experienced during the early 1970s. Following the deaths of two close friends, roadie Bruce Berry and guitarist Danny Whitten

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NEIL YOUNG - Trans
NEIL YOUNG - Trans album front cover vinyl record

Neil Young, known for his versatility and penchant for musical exploration, embraced this transformative period by embracing the electronic rock and new wave genres in "Trans."

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