Who Wrote 'It's Better to Burn Out Than Fade Away'?

The phrase 'it's better to burn out than fade away' was popularized by Neil Young, a legendary American musician and songwriter. The quote is from his song 'It's Better to Burn Out Than Fade Away,' which was released in 1979 as part of the soundtrack for the film 'Rock 'n' Roll High School.'

The song has become an anthem for those who believe that living life on their own terms, even if it means a shorter lifespan, is more fulfilling than slowly fading away. The phrase has been widely used and referenced in popular culture, often to describe individuals who have taken risks and pushed the boundaries of what's possible.

In the context of sports, the phrase can be applied to athletes like Derek Jeter, who made an incredible impact during his playing career before retiring on a high note. On the other hand, players like Scott Rolen, who had a remarkable career but struggled to garner Hall of Fame votes, may be seen as fading away without receiving the recognition they deserve.

The contrast between these two athletes is stark and raises questions about the inconsistencies in the way we evaluate excellence in sports. While Jeter's peak seasons were undoubtedly impressive, Rolen's overall body of work was equally remarkable. The fact that Jeter is a lock for the Hall of Fame while Rolen struggled to garner votes highlights the absurdity of the situation.

Ultimately, the phrase 'it's better to burn out than fade away' serves as a reminder that excellence is not always recognized or rewarded fairly. It's up to us to recognize and celebrate the achievements of athletes like Scott Rolen, who may not have had the same level of fame but were still incredible players in their own right.

Who wrote its better to burn out than fade away