Legendary musician Neil Young discusses the personal struggles that led to his sudden tour cancellation and subsequent return to Spotify.
In a candid livestream with fans, 78-year-old Neil Young opened up about the profound personal and professional realization that abruptly ended his "Love Earth" tour.
"I just woke up one morning on the bus and I said, ‘I can’t do this, I gotta stop.’ And it was like, I felt sick when I thought of going on stage," Young revealed. "My body was telling me, ‘You gotta stop.’ So I listened to my body."
Neil Young's Return to Spotify and His Candid Revelations
The singer-songwriter emphasized that his decision, despite the disappointment it caused fans, was crucial to preserving the integrity of his performances.
"The art of playing, the music – that's what matters," Young stated. "That's what people loved to come and see. But if that's not there, me going isn't happening. My body told me to not do it."
Neil Young's Return to Spotify and His Candid Revelations
Young's tour cancellation in June cited illness among band members, leaving fans perplexed. However, in his livestream, he shed light on the deeper challenges he was facing.
"I had been waking up in the morning and just not feeling very good," Young admitted. "I was like, ‘What's going on here?’ I just wasn't feeling good. I wasn't feeling strong. I wasn't feeling like I could go out there and do my job."
Despite his physical and emotional struggles, Young is hopeful about the future.
"I'm starting to feel like I could do it again," he said. "But in the meantime, I have a lot of friends that I play with."
The renowned musician is slated to perform at the Farm Aid festival in New York this fall, marking his anticipated return to the stage.
Young's decision to return to Spotify, after a brief departure in protest against its handling of COVID-19 misinformation, has also made headlines. While some fans have criticized his decision, Young remains steadfast in his belief that music can transcend political divides.
"I think there's room for everyone," Young said. "I think there's room for every opinion. I think there's room for every voice. And I think music is a great way to bring people together."
Young's journey through personal and professional challenges serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit that has defined his legendary career. His unwavering commitment to his art and his willingness to listen to his body have guided his path, ensuring that his music will continue to resonate with fans for generations to come.
