The 3, bar-none most criminally under-appreciated and under-recognized songwriters of the last 40 years: 1) Neil Finn 2) Andy Partridge of XTC fame 3) Paddy McAloon of Prefab Sprout fame
OMG - totally agree. Shimmering, evocative, poignant songwriters - All of them. Yes, to other comments here; there are a lot of great songwriters, but in terms of criminally under-appreciated, under-recognized songwriters, these 3 top the list. (of course, Neil is well known, appreciated and recognized to almost God-status in Oz & NZ.)
The summer of 1980 I got to go Australia and I heard the Split Enz for the first time...I was hooked. I was 17 from Tucson AZ Mex-Am kid...so I’ve been listening to this dude since then. Beautiful songs...arrangements...chords...oh...voice. Thanks N. Finn.
5:21 "And there's the distant sound of drums which sound like thunder." Neil's such a natural that he speaks beautiful lyrics without even realizing it. ❤
Neil is very articulate and a super smart guy. I have met and talked to him several times and he is a genuinely lovely man; modest, clever and great hair!
As a life long Beatles fan I can honetly say that I rate a lot of Neil's work above that of the Beatles not just for musical structure but the sheer poetic genius of his lyrics.
Lennon/McCartney will always be the standard of comparison, but for several years now the heretical thought has been nagging me and it won't go away: If you take total longevity of career, and combine it with a high level of quality over that career...I think a case can be made Neil is the best ever. There's never been a more gifted melody writer in rock music, and he's kept it up for decades. And his lyrics are equally as good. Go to Spotify and line up every single song written by Neil and you won't find one that remotely resembles any other, and that's the acid test.
@@jeffsech yes well put. However L&M paved new pathways and transformed a genre. Neil, not to be outdone, expanded in many ways, from within. Id certainly have NF in the conversation with LM, Bowie, Elton John, Prince. . he definitely can't be left out.
@@timn4481 For sure. The Beatles must always be placed in historical context, where their astounding accomplishments become even more magnified. They pioneered so many aspects of rock and pop music that we’ve taken for granted for a long time.
Neil Finn's looking more like a middle-years Nine Network Richie Benaud these days. I remember when he was a mop-topped 20-something singing songs of great genius in the late 80s (I was about 17 then). It's why I try not to look in mirrors too much any more. I look like early-years Nine Network Richie, without the sartorial elan and permatan. Welcome back to the comment: I still sing the Kook song in the shower, the best place to be at the start of the morning session. Marvellous record, that.
RIML_TV Kia ora, I agree. I would also like to add how much respect I have for both Neil & Tim for acknowledging the Maori Whanau of Aotearoa and promoting Maori waiatta to the world. Top fellows. I was a member of Ngati Ranana, the London Maori club, for several years. There was a lot of love and respect for the Finn brothers. Great fellas the Finns. Lots of Aroha for the Finn brothers from here in England. Arohanui Aotearoa
Listened to Connan Mockasin on Neil's recommendation. Don't think I've heard a sound quite like his. If you have 9-minutes, "Charlotte's Thong" is definitely worth a listen. Amazing talent, but only time will tell if I love it or hate it!
i think Neil could find inspiration in the stylings of an asthmatic octopus blowing flat escapades on a broken cornet - he is just that much in tune with the universe.
Hunky Dory really is a great LP. After the Gold Rush, another classic, though I prefer Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere. Can definitely hear a bit of those artists in Neil Finn, yet he is sui generis.
today i made my crowded house collection complete by purchasing the together alone album.again,what a great record.indeed an honour to interview such a master singer/songwriter.respect.
This bloke is a true legend, here in Australia we have claimed him as one of us now, sorry kiwis, also we would love to have your prime minister as well ,she rocks , you can have our prime minister, he's a dud
Bowie wrote from the head, but Neil Young writes from the HEART--big difference. I find Bowie's music somewhat contrived, especially, his post-Ronson music. Mick Ronson and his other sidemen made it authentic.
IAM very disappointed Neil didn’t mention a Beatles record when they are obviously at the core of his work! How can you be a songwriter and not mention a Beatles album?
Well to be fair, the Beatles are a common reference point in this series. It's almost refreshing for a guest NOT to mention the Beatles! I think it's clear Neil Finn has love for the Beatles, however in the minutes we had with him he chose a few different records. If you're looking for Beatles love I think you'll find it just about half of the interviews we've filmed, from The Church and Little Steven to Phoebe Bridgers and Glass Animals etc. No shortage of love and respect for that band!
@@Northerntransmissions Good comment. In terms of influence Neil is just a tad young to have 'lived' the Beatles. The Bowie and Young selections tell of the time in his life when music was a powerful force. I agree with is choices, or perhaps empathise would be a better word, being five weeks older than Neil I know exactly where he's coming from in this respect. Great interview. Did he say at one point "the sound of distant drums"?
Well it was filmed during Festival d'Ete in Quebec and there were several change "rooms" made in temporary Canvas tents. Not the most sound proof environment - which is why Duran Duran's soundcheck was coming into the mics as well. At this stage in the game we were just excited to have such an amazing artist on our show!
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The 3, bar-none most criminally under-appreciated and under-recognized songwriters of the last 40 years:
1) Neil Finn
2) Andy Partridge of XTC fame
3) Paddy McAloon of Prefab Sprout fame
fairdose You've nailed it.
Yes. 'The best jewel thie(ves) in the world'.
Roddy Frame
Elliott Smith is so underrated it's crazy - the bloke was simply a genius.
OMG - totally agree. Shimmering, evocative, poignant songwriters - All of them. Yes, to other comments here; there are a lot of great songwriters, but in terms of criminally under-appreciated, under-recognized songwriters, these 3 top the list. (of course, Neil is well known, appreciated and recognized to almost God-status in Oz & NZ.)
He comes across as an absolutely sound guy, so down to earth!...and very knowledgeable and considerate, top man!
You are for me, the best singer/songwriter of our generation. Well done, always a pleasure to hear you speak about music ♥️
The summer of 1980 I got to go Australia and I heard the Split Enz for the first time...I was hooked. I was 17 from Tucson AZ Mex-Am kid...so I’ve been listening to this dude since then. Beautiful songs...arrangements...chords...oh...voice. Thanks N. Finn.
aside from being a gifted musician, Neil is just damn adorably affable and nice.....i could hug this guy for an hour or so =)
Neil is a genuinely likable bloke. Love the Kiwi accent too!
Yes he is, very affable. It was an honour to meet one of the greatest living songwriters on the planet!
5:21 "And there's the distant sound of drums which sound like thunder." Neil's such a natural that he speaks beautiful lyrics without even realizing it. ❤
Yes, that comment stood out to me as well.
My favourite songwriter, my favourite singer. This made my day, thanks.
Cheers, it was an honest pleasure and an honour to meet Neil Finn. And in Quebec too!
Hi Hol's kitchen, give a listen to Paul Brady
Mine too, easily. Brilliant.
Neil is very articulate and a super smart guy. I have met and talked to him several times and he is a genuinely lovely man; modest, clever and great hair!
Genius, we’re so lucky to be able to hear this
Love you Neil! Great interview!
Thank You
“Chasing the essence of good music” Well said
truly, one of my favourite interviews
I have so much respect for his music. I am so glad I got to see him live playing as "Crowded House"
Musical genius along with his older brother Tim.
I agree
Wish the two would team up again
Finn is a music genius.
As a life long Beatles fan I can honetly say that I rate a lot of Neil's work above that of the Beatles not just for musical structure but the sheer poetic genius of his lyrics.
Lennon/McCartney will always be the standard of comparison, but for several years now the heretical thought has been nagging me and it won't go away: If you take total longevity of career, and combine it with a high level of quality over that career...I think a case can be made Neil is the best ever. There's never been a more gifted melody writer in rock music, and he's kept it up for decades. And his lyrics are equally as good. Go to Spotify and line up every single song written by Neil and you won't find one that remotely resembles any other, and that's the acid test.
@@jeffsech yes well put. However L&M paved new pathways and transformed a genre. Neil, not to be outdone, expanded in many ways, from within. Id certainly have NF in the conversation with LM, Bowie, Elton John, Prince. . he definitely can't be left out.
@@timn4481 For sure. The Beatles must always be placed in historical context, where their astounding accomplishments become even more magnified. They pioneered so many aspects of rock and pop music that we’ve taken for granted for a long time.
The Beatles, some stuff sounds dated. The Bee Gees another great team of Brothers.
I like this man very much!
Now that is the question you ask a superstar musician
Neil Finn's looking more like a middle-years Nine Network Richie Benaud these days. I remember when he was a mop-topped 20-something singing songs of great genius in the late 80s (I was about 17 then).
It's why I try not to look in mirrors too much any more. I look like early-years Nine Network Richie, without the sartorial elan and permatan.
Welcome back to the comment: I still sing the Kook song in the shower, the best place to be at the start of the morning session. Marvellous record, that.
Nice to here your inspiration and music you liked
About the Neil Young comment If anyone is wondering or interested, the digital music device he was talking about is called the "Pono" player.
Thank You
Yep you have to spell it right
Love hearing Neil talk about Bowie!! My two all-time favorites!!
That's a star comment.
Probably New Zealands best songwriter ever
I'd go a little further and suggest he may well be one of the best living song writers on the planet! A very talented, sophisticated composer.
@@Northerntransmissions That's true. I saw him with Crowded House in Liverpool on the 20th June 1992. He and them were excellent
RIML_TV Kia ora, I agree. I would also like to add how much respect I have for both Neil & Tim for acknowledging the Maori Whanau of Aotearoa and promoting Maori waiatta to the world. Top fellows. I was a member of Ngati Ranana, the London Maori club, for several years. There was a lot of love and respect for the Finn brothers. Great fellas the Finns. Lots of Aroha for the Finn brothers from here in England. Arohanui Aotearoa
Probably?..no doubt. Tbf one of the greatest thats ever lived would be more accurate.
Neil and Neil, about as good as it gets - for me.
When I met Neil (Finn) in Wellington 98, I complimented him on how he extended my guitaring from my usual Neil Young play around stuff. He liked that.
I’ve only heard the Young and Bowie ones but Together Alone knocks them both, and much of Neil’s subsequent output into a cocked hat.
A talented individual ...
Love the Finn brothers, pretty pissed Neil didn't mention my record though!😁
Cripple Creek Ferry is the last song on After the Goldrush. Thought I'd confirm that!
Listened to Connan Mockasin on Neil's recommendation. Don't think I've heard a sound quite like his. If you have 9-minutes, "Charlotte's Thong" is definitely worth a listen. Amazing talent, but only time will tell if I love it or hate it!
"Forever Dolphin Love" , yes!!!!!!
i think Neil could find inspiration in the stylings of an asthmatic octopus blowing flat escapades on a broken cornet - he is just that much in tune with the universe.
was a real joy to talk to. Incredible knowledge in music
EXCELLENT
Hunky Dory really is a great LP.
After the Gold Rush, another classic, though I prefer Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere.
Can definitely hear a bit of those artists in Neil Finn, yet he is sui generis.
thanks can listen to most Fridays just not last weeks.
The James Stewart of rock
Was listening to hunky dory today.
"Connan Mockasin sounds like a small child or fairy." - Neil Finn
no fleetwood mac then?ha ha.great man with excellent taste in music.
One of our greatest living songwriters. It was an honour to meet Mr. Neil Finn.
today i made my crowded house collection complete by purchasing the together alone album.again,what a great record.indeed an honour to interview such a master singer/songwriter.respect.
I absolutely ADORE Neil Finn.
top notch all the way
5 out of 5 👍
Connan rocks!!!!! Hard!!!!
Surprised he didn't mention The Beatles
Never lost his Kiwi accent at all
Shoot, wish he'd finished that statement about analogue music.
People say Australians sound British. I disagree. You may disagree with that too, but Kiwi has a very similar sound to British.
This bloke is a true legend, here in Australia we have claimed him as one of us now, sorry kiwis, also we would love to have your prime minister as well ,she rocks , you can have our prime minister, he's a dud
Agree with you entirely. Neil is an absolute great plus most countries in the world would be bettered with Jacinda Arden leading.
Bowie wrote from the head, but Neil Young writes from the HEART--big difference. I find Bowie's music somewhat contrived, especially, his post-Ronson music. Mick Ronson and his other sidemen made it authentic.
Neil likes a good diminished chord
Us thit tha rain?
The heir to Paul McCartney
Don't know why iam cut off My communication Internet last 2weekd of me up nth on Life line i fund
Hey... guys, GUYS!!
Turn down the intro music.
SMH no Split Enz tunes in this interview.
Yeah, good point, I guess I could have thrown in a couple. Funny you're the first to comment on that!
"smiling as the shit comes down "...
No offense to anyone mentioned,
but none can hold a candle to Robert Pollard.
Duran Duran......😂
Connan Mockasin makes some really....REALLY weird music. I am certain that is his intent. There's nothing else quite like him. Hahaha.
IAM very disappointed Neil didn’t mention a Beatles record when they are obviously at the core of his work! How can you be a songwriter and not mention a Beatles album?
Well to be fair, the Beatles are a common reference point in this series. It's almost refreshing for a guest NOT to mention the Beatles! I think it's clear Neil Finn has love for the Beatles, however in the minutes we had with him he chose a few different records. If you're looking for Beatles love I think you'll find it just about half of the interviews we've filmed, from The Church and Little Steven to Phoebe Bridgers and Glass Animals etc. No shortage of love and respect for that band!
@@Northerntransmissions Good comment. In terms of influence Neil is just a tad young to have 'lived' the Beatles. The Bowie and Young selections tell of the time in his life when music was a powerful force. I agree with is choices, or perhaps empathise would be a better word, being five weeks older than Neil I know exactly where he's coming from in this respect. Great interview. Did he say at one point "the sound of distant drums"?
In other interviews he has mentioned "Beatles for Sale"
Is it compulsory to like The Beatles ?
most songs today are so boring they don't modulate and they don't use an diminished or even 7th chords - so dull
HE needs to stop puffing his hair up. It actually makes him look older.
You need to stop making inane comments it actually makes you sound unintelligent.
Its so disheartening to hear cackling in the back
Well it was filmed during Festival d'Ete in Quebec and there were several change "rooms" made in temporary Canvas tents. Not the most sound proof environment - which is why Duran Duran's soundcheck was coming into the mics as well. At this stage in the game we were just excited to have such an amazing artist on our show!
He's just talking about rock music which is all he really knows about bore
chris bennett Oh bore off.
@@paztizzi2719 Quite. There's always one.
He's aged badly. Looks late 60s...
Possibly, but he was generous enough to give us an interview and an honest pleasure to meet in person. One of the best songwriters on the planet.
Oh yes I agree.
Great head of hair though
Yes. And it's REAL.
Kutta Kyte No he hasn't. He looks around 60, which he is...