Neil Young Review: Celebrating the Unconventional Genius of a Rock Legend

Neil Young’s return to Glastonbury was anything but ordinary. Before the lineup was even announced, he stirred up drama by dropping out of the festival. He took issue with the BBC, calling their event coverage a “corporate turnoff.” Shortly after, he changed his mind about performing, but not before the BBC made it clear they might not stream his show—though last-minute decisions meant a livestream did happen.

For decades, Young has followed his own path in music, defying expectations. As he approaches 80, his mindset remains unchanged, evident in his blog, the Times Contrarian. Fans who know him well always brace for the unexpected. This unpredictability adds a unique thrill to his performances, which can leave even casual listeners wondering what they’ll witness.

On stage, he looked less like a rock star and more like a familiar face from a small town, dressed in a plaid shirt, jeans, and a hat that shadowed his eyes. He kicked off with "Sugar Mountain" on acoustic guitar, setting a reflective tone. His band, Chrome Hearts, included 82-year-old Spooner Oldham, a legendary musician who’s played with icons like Aretha Franklin. Together, they created a sound that was both powerful and raw.

The night featured a mix of old favorites like "Cinnamon Girl" and "Fuckin’ Up," each ending with heavy noise and riveting guitar work. Young’s solos are intense, showcasing his deep connection with his band members. At one point, he appeared set to play a string of hits, delighting the crowd with an acoustic version of "Harvest Moon" that had festival-goers singing along softly.

However, true to form, Young surprised the audience with “Sun Green,” a lengthy song from his ecological concept album. At 18 verses long, it tested the limits of patience, prompting some festival-goers to drift off in search of other entertainment.

Young’s set ended on a high note with “Rockin’ in the Free World,” a crowd-pleaser that brought everyone together. People danced, sang, and enjoyed the lively atmosphere. Despite moments of unpredictability earlier in the night, Young showed signs of joy, embodying his complex artistic spirit.

In an age where statistics show that live music attendance is rising—nearly 40% of millennials and Gen Z attending more concerts than ever—Young’s performance exemplified what many seek: authenticity in a world often driven by commercialism.

Neil Young continues to push boundaries, remaining a distinct voice in the music landscape, proving that even after decades, he has much to say and share.

For more insights into Neil Young’s music and its impact, check out official reports from sources like Billboard.

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