Cortez the Killer is a song by Neil Young, released in 1975 on the album Zuma by Neil Young & Crazy Horse. The lyrics recount the story of Hernan Cortezs arrival in Mexico and his interaction with the Aztec emperor Montezuma II. It is noted for its powerful critique of the destruction of the Aztec culture by Spanish forces. While historical, the song carries a strong emotional weight, reflecting on the loss and beauty of the Aztec civilization.