About the song

Let’s journey into the evocative world of folk rock with Neil Young’s timeless classic “Four Strong Winds.” This iconic song, originally penned by Canadian folk singer Ian Tyson, has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but it’s Neil Young’s rendition that stands out as a definitive interpretation.

“Four Strong Winds” was included on Neil Young’s album “Comes a Time,” released in 1978. Neil Young’s soulful vocals and heartfelt delivery breathe new life into this beloved folk ballad, adding a layer of depth and emotion to its already poignant lyrics.

While “Four Strong Winds” didn’t reach the top of the charts in its original release, it has since become one of Neil Young’s most beloved songs, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated following. Its timeless themes of love, loss, and longing resonate with listeners of all ages, making it a staple of Neil Young’s live performances and a favorite among fans.

Neil Young’s rendition of “Four Strong Winds” showcases his ability to capture the essence of a song and make it his own, while still honoring its roots in the folk tradition. Its inclusion on the “Comes a Time” album further solidified its place in Neil Young’s extensive discography, adding to the album’s enduring legacy.

So, whether you’re a longtime fan of Neil Young or discovering his music for the first time, “Four Strong Winds” is sure to leave a lasting impression with its timeless beauty and emotional resonance.

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Lyrics

Think I’ll go out to Alberta
Weather’s good there in the fall
I got some friends that I could go to working for
Still, I wish you’d change your mind
If I ask you one more time
But we’ve been through this a hundred times or more

Four strong winds that blow lonely
Seven seas that run high
All those things that don’t change, come what may
If the good times are all gone
Then I’m bound for moving on
I’ll look for you if I’m ever back this way

If I get there before the snow flies
And if things are looking good
You could meet me if I send you down the fare
But by then it would be winter
Not too much for you to do
And those winds sure can blow cold way out there

Four strong winds that blow lonely
Seven seas that run high
All those things that don’t change, come what may
The good times are all gone
So I’m bound for moving on
I’ll look for you if I’m ever back this way

Still, I wish you’d change your mind
If I ask you one more time
But we’ve been through that a hundred times or more

Four strong winds that blow lonely
Seven seas that run high
All those things that don’t change, come what may
If the good times are all gone
Then I’m bound for moving on
I’ll look for you if I’m ever back this way
I’ll look for you if I’m ever back this way

By Tam Le

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