Neil Young recently revisited his musical past by performing “Pardon My Heart,” a track from his 1975 album “Zuma,” during his Fireside Sessions video series. This performance is notable as it marked the first live rendition of the song in 50 years. Young originally introduced “Pardon My Heart” to a live audience on May 16, 1974, in a late-night surprise set in New York City, following a Ry Cooder concert. He described it as one of the saddest love songs he had ever written. The song made a brief reappearance during a Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young tour shortly after.
The song was recorded at Young’s Broken Arrow Ranch studio in June 1974, featuring Tim Drummond on bass and the Crazy Horse Rhythm Section providing backing vocals. The emotional weight of the song reflects the heartbreak Young experienced during a difficult time in his relationship with actress Carrie Snodgress. Despite the deep personal significance of “Pardon My Heart,” Young had kept it unreleased for many years, expressing both embarrassment and a feeling that it was too raw to share.
In recent endeavors, Young has been working on new music with his band Chrome Hearts, following a hiatus from releasing new material. He is currently in the studio working on a project tentatively titled “Talking to the Trees.” After a two-year break from songwriting, Young expressed gratitude for his musical journey and the connections he has made. Chrome Hearts debuted at Farm Aid 2023 and includes members such as Micah Nelson and Spooner Oldham. Although no shows are scheduled for the upcoming year, Young plans to tour Europe and potentially perform in the U.S., with an emphasis on outdoor venues due to prevailing health concerns.