Color By Numbers

Neil Young · Other Songs - Neil Young

Someone wants to blow up the planet

Johnny wants to find out why

Johnny did a show in St. Louis

Love came through the sky.



Oh yeah, they were camped out,

Waiting for the sun to rise

Oh yeah, Johnny sang out

Love into the sky.



Johnny found a place out in Texas

Waiting for him to come

Made himself a reservation

And hope came, in the gun.



Oh yeah, he was flying,

Waiting for the sun to rise

Oh yeah, color by numbers

Waiting for the sun to rise.



Johnny did some time in the army

Johnny did a stint in Vietnam.

Now he can't forget it,

His mind is confused,

slipping from his twisted hand.



Oh yeah, he's still back there

With one hand on the gun

Oh yeah, he's still back there

Waiting for the rising sun.



Now Johnny

likes to go down the highway

The wind singing in his ears

Right up as

most things go whirring by

By day everything looks clear.



Oh yeah, Johnny ride on

Gonna find a special home

Oh yeah, down the highway

Looking for the rising sun.

Color By Numbers

Neil Young's "Color By Numbers" stands as a testament to his enduring ability to craft intimate, narrative-driven folk-rock. The track showcases his signature acoustic guitar work and emotive vocal delivery, hallmarks that have defined his extensive discography for decades. While often associated with his more introspective periods, the song reflects the artist's consistent exploration of personal history and social observation. It fits comfortably within a body of work that balances raw simplicity with profound lyrical depth. Listeners familiar with Young's catalog will recognize the familiar textures of his songwriting, where storytelling takes precedence over complex arrangements. This recording remains a compelling example of his contribution to the genre, offering a moment of reflection that resonates with fans of his classic style.