Neil Young

Neil Young - Performance of 'Hey Hey, My My' Live at Farm Aid

Farm Aid
Champaign, Illinois, United States

• In 1985, Neil Young was actively engaged in both his music career and social activism, which was particularly evident during his performance at the Fa... Read Full Description >

  In 1985, Neil Young was actively engaged in both his music career and social activism, which was particularly evident during his performance at the Farm Aid concert. Prior to this live recording, he released the album "Landing on Water" in 1986. This album was marked by a shift in his sound, embracing more synthesized elements, which divided critics and fans alike. The Farm Aid concert, where Young performed "Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black)," was not only a platform for musical expression but also a crucial event aimed at supporting struggling family farms in America. Young's participation showcased his commitment to social causes, reinforcing his identity as an artist who intertwined music with activism. Notably, his performance at Farm Aid contributed to a series of benefit concerts that would define part of his career in the 1980s, highlighting his role in advocating for sustainable farming and rural communities.

Neil Young - Heart of Gold Performance at Farm Aid 1985

Farm Aid
Champaign, Illinois, United States

• In September 1985, during the live recording of "Heart of Gold" at the Farm Aid concert, Neil Young was deeply engaged in advocating for family farmer... Read Full Description >

  In September 1985, during the live recording of "Heart of Gold" at the Farm Aid concert, Neil Young was deeply engaged in advocating for family farmers, a cause he has passionately supported since the concert's inception. This performance followed the release of his album "Old Ways," which came out in 1985. Notably, Young's participation in Farm Aid highlighted his commitment not only to music but also to social issues, reflecting his role as a prominent figure in the music community advocating for agricultural sustainability. He was one of the original founders of Farm Aid, established in response to the farming crisis of the 1980s, and this event served as a significant platform for raising awareness about the challenges facing farmers in the United States. The live recording captures both Young's artistry and his activism, showcasing the intersection of his musical career with important social causes.