When you think of iconic flannel shirts and a stare that could make you stop and ponder about life, you probably think of Neil young. But before his legendary status, Neil was just a wide-eyed Canadian kid with a guitar and a restless soul. 

From Buffalo Springfield to CSNY, and then stepping into his own narrative, Young carved out a career that was never predictable but always authentic. 

These 20 rare and early photos capture the moments before the legend fully took root, the jam sessions, quiet reflections, and raw performances that laid the foundation for one of rock’s most uncompromising voices. Neil’s early years were already full of grit, soul, and electricity that would remain meaningful for decades.