Did you know that Neil Young only records music under a full moon?

Known for hits such as Heart of Gold, Harvest Moon, Down by the River and Helpless, the 79 year old started out making music in Winnipeg in the 60’s, since recording over 40 studio albums, 20 live albums and 100 singles. His career has spanned seven decades and many bands including Buffalo Springfield, Crazy Horse, Crosby Stills Nash and Young, and Promise of the Real.

Young’s need for this celestial jolt while making music seems so important to him that in 2010 he recorded his album Le Noise over three successive full moons.

“I like to do it because it works for me. I don’t know if it works for everybody, but it works for me because you can feel the energy when the moon cycles change,” Young explained. “You feel different that day, like when you turn the page, you just feel an energy. And then maybe a week later, you really start to feel something, and it’s usually really positive and creative, real good. So that’s why we choose the moon as the main date for ending the sessions.”

Noting that harvesting verve from Earth’s natural satellite is something that certain cultures “have been aware of for years and years,” the songwriter has said working under a full moon simply eclipses all other creative processes for him.