In Cortez the Killer he sings "war was never known"

[Timber]

but that's a straight up lie, they went to war all the time simply because they could and then Cortez killed them with his army of people who were tired of being at war.

And he also sings that they did things "we still can't do today" but we totally can though.

But I like the naivete of the song and it's the best example in music, along with Paris 1919, of nostalgia for a time before yours, like when you're looking at an old early 20th century black and white photograph of the building you're currently in and you're all "damn."

And then he connects it to pining after some lady? This post brought to you by emotions.

[Timber]

And Ï know she's living there
and she loves me to this day
I still can't remember when
or how I lost my way

that's insane dude

[Great Rumbler]

On a more cynical note, in Jimmy McDonough's biography of Young, entitled Shakey, the author asked Neil if his songs were autobiographical. Young replied, "What the fuck am I doing writing about Aztecs in "Cortez the Killer" like I was there, wandering around? 'Cause I only read about it in a few books. A lotta shit I just made up because it came to me."

[Timber]

That's the best quote. Pro bullshitting is the highest art.

[Joe Molotov]

A southern man don't need him 'round anyhow.

[Owl-faced Wizard]

I think the worst bit is:

They offered life in sacrifice
So that others could go on

Ritual human sacrifice apologism?  Really, Neil? 

[MyNameIsMethodis]

neil young is garbage

[Brehvolution]

My favorite version was from the live disk Weld.

http://grooveshark.com/#!/s/Cortez+The+Killer/bCiEl?src=5

[Verdigris Murder]

neil young is garbage

I agree. And he also can't hold a note.

[Timber]

I don't care what you think about Neil Young you monstrous nerds, I'm having many feels.