"There's an edge to real rock 'n' roll. It's all that matters"

Neil Young's quote, "There's an edge to genuine rock 'n' roll. It's all that matters", encapsulates an extensive perspective on the category he has significantly influenced and been a part of for decades. The phrase "an edge" recommends a raw, unpolished quality that identifies authentic rock 'n' roll. This edge conveys a sense of rebellion, emotion, and spontaneity that identifies genuine rock music from other genres or more commercialized, overproduced variations.

In describing this edge, Young highlights the significance of authenticity and psychological intensity in music. Rock 'n' Roll, at its core, has been a car for expressing frustration, challenging societal standards, and pushing boundaries. The "edge" serves as a metaphor for risk-taking and innovation, necessary components that prevent the music from ending up being stagnant or formulaic. It's about keeping the spirit of experimentation and a willingness to go against the grain, keeping rock music fresh and pertinent.

When Young states, "It's all that matters", he stresses the importance of this authenticity over other aspects typically related to success in the music industry, such as popularity, industrial success, or technical perfection. For Young, the essence of rock 'n' roll depends on its ability to get in touch with listeners on a visceral level, to stimulate emotions, and to communicate reality without compromise.

This quote can also be viewed as Young's rallying cry to musicians to focus on artistic stability over traditional appeal. It's a reminder that the true spirit of rock 'n' roll can not be made; it arises organically from the artist's genuine expression and the music's effect on its audience. In essence, Young highlights a central approach of rock 'n' roll: that its soul lies not in polished production, however in its raw, powerful, and unfiltered expression.