Top 5 Alt-Rock Pioneers

5. Neil Young

If I told you that Neil Young was one of the greatest influencers on alt-rock based upon listening to his hits, you'd probably call me a musical heretic of the highest degree. While Neil's rustic Americana sound feels like the furthest thing from alternative, his mindset towards the music business left an indelible mark on modern artists.

Throughout his career, Neil Young has made a name for himself as an artist who follows his own muse. Even though his label has tried to push him towards his musical strengths, Neil Young turns a deaf ear to his critics and does whatever music suits him at the moment. This has led to him having a bit of a rocky discography, but he always is doing whatever the hell he wants.

From an aesthetic point of view, Young's attitude towards the music business had a huge impact on the alternative scene, so much so that he has earned the nickname the Godfather of Grunge. With praise heaped upon him from bands such as Pearl Jam and Sonic Youth, Neil Young is able to add alternative pioneer to his ongoing list of accolades across his 50+ year career