1. Record Sales: Both artists have sold millions of records worldwide. Van Morrison has sold an estimated 35 million albums globally, while Neil Young has sold over 40 million albums.
2. Streaming Numbers: On streaming platforms, Neil Young has a slight edge. As of 2023, he has over 20 million monthly listeners on Spotify, while Van Morrison has around 15 million monthly listeners.
3. Critical Acclaim: Both artists have received critical acclaim throughout their careers. Van Morrison has won two Grammy Awards, and his album "Astral Weeks" is considered one of the greatest albums of all time. Neil Young has won four Grammy Awards, and his album "Harvest" is also widely regarded as a masterpiece.
4. Touring: Both artists have toured extensively throughout their careers. Neil Young has performed over 2,500 concerts, while Van Morrison has given over 1,500 concerts.
5. Cultural Impact: Both artists have made significant contributions to the music industry and culture. Van Morrison's music has been instrumental in the development of genres like folk, blues, and Celtic soul. Neil Young's work has influenced numerous artists across genres, and he is known for his outspoken activism.
Overall, while Neil Young may have a slight advantage in terms of record sales and streaming numbers, both Van Morrison and Neil Young are highly influential and respected artists with dedicated fan bases. Their popularity can vary depending on individual preferences, geographical regions, and generational differences.