Ronnie And Neil

Album: Southern Rock Opera (2001)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This song is a story about the friendship between Neil Young and Ronnie Van Zant. Van Zant was lead singer of Lynyrd Skynyrd, whose song "Sweet Home Alabama" included a line about Young and his song "Southern Man." A lot of fans believed they had a feud, but that was not the case. In the end, this song describes how both Neil Young and Ronnie Van Zant were truly fans of each other and the American South is grateful for both of them.
  • The album is a 2-disc set all about Lynyrd Skynyrd. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Aaron - Twin Cities, MN, for above 2

Comments: 1

  • Ekristheh from Halath, United StatesI've sent this song to two people who despised the Skynyrd's alleged "Southern attitude" and couldn't stand to hear their music. Coincidentally, both these people were huge Neil Young fans. The juxtaposition of these elements reset their view of things considerably.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Spooner Oldham

Spooner OldhamSongwriter Interviews

His keyboard work helped define the Muscle Shoals sound and make him an integral part of many Neil Young recordings. Spooner is also an accomplished songwriter, whose hits include "I'm Your Puppet" and "Cry Like A Baby."

Hawksley Workman

Hawksley WorkmanSongwriter Interviews

One of Canada's most popular and eclectic performers, Hawksley tells stories about his oldest songs, his plentiful side projects, and the ways that he keeps his songwriting fresh.

Wherefore Art Thou Romeo Lyric

Wherefore Art Thou Romeo LyricMusic Quiz

In this quiz, spot the artist who put Romeo into a song lyric.

Jon Anderson of Yes

Jon Anderson of YesSongwriter Interviews

From the lake in "Roundabout" to Sister Bluebird in "Starship Trooper," Jon Anderson talks about how nature and spirituality play into his lyrics for Yes.

Stan Ridgway

Stan RidgwaySongwriter Interviews

Go beyond the Wall of Voodoo with this cinematic songwriter.

The Real Nick Drake

The Real Nick DrakeSong Writing

The head of Drake's estate shares his insights on the late folk singer's life and music.