Neil Young Returns to the Studio with The Chrome Hearts

Neil Young, the iconic Canadian singer-songwriter, has announced that he is back in the studio with his band, The Chrome Hearts, working on a new album. Young shared this update on his Neil Young Archives website, revealing that he has already completed eight new songs that he describes as capturing "life, love, and the emotions that still drive my music." This announcement comes shortly after Young canceled a planned European summer tour for 2026, stating, “I’m sorry to let you down, but this is not the time.” At 80 years old, Young continues to pursue his passion for music, despite expressing frustration with the current political climate in the United States.

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Young began collaborating with The Chrome Hearts in September 2024. The band includes veteran keyboardist Spooner Oldham, Micah Nelson on guitar, Corey McCormick on bass, and Anthony LoGerfo on drums. Notably, Micah and Lukas Nelson, sons of country legend Willie Nelson, were previously part of the band Promise Of The Real, which served as Young's backing band from 2015 to 2019. The Chrome Hearts released their first album with Young, "Talkin' To The Trees," in June 2025, which laid the groundwork for their current recording sessions.

Neil Young Reveals He’s Recording a New Album with Backing Group The Chrome Hearts, Featuring Songs That “Make Me Feel”Neil Young Recording New Album With Chrome HeartsNeil Young Records New Album with Chrome Hearts

In addition to the new album with The Chrome Hearts, Young has several other projects in the pipeline. He plans to release "Hard Luck Stories," a live album featuring performances recorded with Crazy Horse in May 1997, which will be available digitally to subscribers of his website before being included in the upcoming Volume 4 of the Neil Young Archives box set series, expected in late 2026 or 2027. Furthermore, Young and The Chrome Hearts will release a live album titled "As Time Explodes" on April 18, 2026, as part of Record Store Day. This album will feature 13 tracks recorded during their 2025 tour, including a live version of a new song titled "Big Crime."

Neil Young Reveals He’s Recording a New Album with Backing Group The Chrome Hearts, Featuring Songs That “Make Me Feel”Neil Young Recording New Album With Chrome HeartsNeil Young Records New Album with Chrome Hearts

Young's recent statements reflect his discontent with the political landscape in the United States. He expressed feelings of hurt and disappointment, stating, “Politics today is sad and depressing for me. I can’t do it anymore,” and referred to former President Donald Trump as “the worst president in the history of our country.” These sentiments suggest that Young may channel his political frustrations into his new music, potentially resonating with fans who share similar concerns.

Neil Young Records New Album with Chrome Hearts

While no specific release date has been announced for the new album with The Chrome Hearts, fans can anticipate further updates as the recording process progresses. Young's ability to balance new studio work with live recordings and archival releases continues to define his prolific career, ensuring that his artistic output remains vibrant and relevant.

Neil Young Recording New Album With Chrome Hearts