Neil Young Teams Up with Chrome Hearts for First Album, Takes a Jab at Elon Musk in New Song: Watch the Video
Neil Young & The Chrome Hearts Announce New Album Talkin to the Trees, Lead with Provocative Single “Lets Roll Again”
Legendary singer-songwriter Neil Young is back with a bang, newly partnered with his touring ensemble, The Chrome Hearts. Set to drop on June 13, 2023, Talkin to the Trees promises to intertwine Young’s signature thought-provoking lyrics with the raw energy of his freshly assembled band.
The album opens audaciously with "Lets Roll Again," a bold protest anthem rallying for the American car industry to “protect our children” by ramping up the production of electric vehicles. In a strikingly direct lyric, Young laments, “China’s way ahead—they’re building clean cars!” The urgency in his voice is palpable as he confronts the challenges of our modern climate crisis.
Accompanying the single is a provocative music video that takes aim at none other than Elon Musk. Young draws parallels to Woody Guthrie’s classic “This Land Is Your Land,” delivering a poignant critique encapsulated in the lines: “If you’re a fascist, then get a Tesla/If it’s electric/It doesn’t matter.” The visuals heighten the tension, depicting Musk in a stark, controversial “Heil Tesla” juxtaposition, prompting discussions about the contradictions of capitalism and sustainability.
The forthcoming album promises additional gems, including the previously released debut single "Big Change," also showcasing Young’s unrelenting knack for melding personal reflection with social commentary.
Here’s the complete tracklist for Talkin to the Trees:
- Family Life
- Dark Mirage
- Fire Fire of Winter
- Silver Eagle
- Lets Roll Again
- Big Change
- Talkin to the Trees
- Movin Ahead
- Bottle of Love
- Thankful
With each release, Young continues to challenge societal norms and provoke thought about critical issues. The anticipation for Talkin to the Trees is building, and if "Lets Roll Again" is any indication, this album might just be another essential chapter in his storied career.
Be sure to catch the video below and grab your copy on June 13.
Neil Young & The Chrome Hearts: Talkin to the Trees is available for pre-order now, and you can check out the album at Rough Trade for $48.
