"Rust Never Sleeps" is the tenth album by Neil Young, released on June 22, 1979, in collaboration with his band Crazy Horse. It's a unique blend of live and studio recordings, with most tracks recorded live and later overdubbed in the studio, while others originated entirely in the studio. The album's title and concept stem from Young's desire to maintain artistic integrity and innovation, symbolized by the phrase "rust never sleeps," which became a theme for his tour with Crazy Horse.
The album was well-received critically and commercially, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard 200 chart. It featured the hit single "Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black)," which reached No. 79 on the Billboard Hot 100. One of its standout tracks, "Powderfinger," has become one of Young's most acclaimed songs.
"Rust Never Sleeps" is often noted for its influence on the development of grunge music, particularly through its raw, heavily distorted guitar sound. Bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam have cited Young's guitar style on this album as a significant inspiration for their own musical direction.
Alongside Young's 1990 album "Ragged Glory," "Rust Never Sleeps" is regarded as a precursor to the grunge movement, showcasing Young's ability to blend rock, folk, and punk influences into a distinctive and influential sound.
