Neil Young is often celebrated as one of the greatest songwriters of his generation, but his skills as a guitarist deserve equal recognition. From his delicate work on On The Beach to the raw energy of Hey Hey, My My, Young has consistently delivered masterful performances on the six-string. Among these, the nine-minute epic Down By The River stands out as a defining showcase of his guitar artistry. Like any great musician, Young has always acknowledged the guitarists who inspired him, with one of the most notable being Bert Jansch.
Jansch, a prominent figure in London’s folk scene, began his rise to fame in the capital’s coffee houses. His melancholic yet innovative approach to acoustic guitar set him apart, influencing generations of musicians. Before joining the iconic band Pentangle, Jansch’s raw talent saw him create a sonic legacy that resonated far beyond the folk genre. Known for his skill with instruments like the banjo and dulcimer, Jansch remained devoted to the acoustic guitar, crafting a distinctive style that captivated audiences and artists alike.
Jansch’s music transcended genres, inspiring a range of legendary guitarists, including Jimmy Page, Joan Armatrading, and Johnny Marr. Neil Young was particularly influenced, citing Jansch as one of his most significant inspirations. While Young took Jansch on tour in 2010, his admiration for the folk icon stretched back decades. In a bold statement in 1992, Young declared:
“Bert Jansch is on the same level as Jimi Hendrix.”
Young continued, praising Jansch’s debut record as “epic,” specifically highlighting the track The Needle of Death as both “beautiful and angry.” This admiration also found its way into Young’s music. He revealed that the melody of Ambulance Blues from On The Beach was unintentionally modeled after Jansch’s Needle of Death, saying:
“I wasn’t even aware of it, and someone else drew my attention to it.”
This revelation speaks to Jansch’s profound impact on Young and underscores the deep connection between folk and rock music. Jansch’s ability to weave intricate melodies and emotional depth into his songs made him a touchstone for guitarists of all genres, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential musicians of his time.
Neil Young’s tribute to Bert Jansch reflects the deep respect shared among true artists. It’s a reminder that, whether through overt homage or subconscious influence, the music of legends like Jansch continues to shape the soundscapes of new generations.
