Neil Young's "This Note's for You"

There are many reasons why I love Neil Young.  First and foremost, his music and dedication to staying true to himself and fans.  He's never shyed away from standing up for his convictions - right, wrong, too left or erm, too right.  Neil is an artist and entertainer that has always had a little place in my heart. 

Just happened to be be on Letters of Note the other day and came across his letter to MTV regarding their decision to block his video, "This Note's for You," a song about musicians selling out by endorsing brands.  Neil does a fine job of mocking them.  So MTV, in turn, banned the video.  Here's what Neil had to say:

6th July, 1988

MTV, you spineless twerps. You refuse to play "This Note's For You" because you're afraid to offend your sponsors. What does the "M" in MTV stand for: music or money? Long live rock and roll.

Neil Young

"This Note's for You," went on to win Video of the Year at the MTV Video Music Awards.

About the song and video...

1979 Rolling Stone

 

Found an old Rolling Stone magazine in my Dad's basement with Neil Young on the Cover.  I love the face they chose to convey on the front and illustrate.  I was barely able to turn the pages without them crumbling, but there is a nice piece inside about Neil and what was happening with him in '79.  Neat stuff in the parent's basement.  Stay warm out there.