The legendary singer-songwriter, 66, opens up about his life and career in his memoir, Waging Heavy Peace. He also just released a new album with Crazy Horse, Psychedelic Pill.



You wrote about how you recently stopped smoking and drinking. How do you feel today?

I feel good. I got some advice from my doctor that I thought was pretty sincere, so I just let it stop, and it’s nice. I think I’m still high from the last 50 years, but I certainly don’t miss it at this point.

What goal do you have in music now?

I want to be a better guitar player, and I want to learn how to sing better. It took me a while to get up enough nerve to sing in the beginning, but once I did, I realized I had a different-sounding voice.

Where do you get the energy to perform night after night?

This is who I am. I never thought about not doing this. Sometimes I get a little tired and take a break, but that also happened to me when I was 25.

How do you like to spend your free time?

When I’m at my house in Hawaii, I love to be in the water. I love to paddleboard and just hang out with friends.

Online Extra: Young talks more about his songwriting and the musicians he enjoys.

What inspires you when it comes to songwriting?

It depends on the moment. It’s a mystery to me. I try not to think, so that’s the main thing. No thinking please!

What artists are you enjoying today?

I love music, and there’s a lot of great music out there to listen to. There’s Jamey Johnson — he’s a great songwriter and singer, and he’s got a really great band. And there’s Lukas Nelson, who I really admire. He’s great and I love his music. I love listening to my wife Pegi’s band. She’s got a great band.

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