On the evening of April 26, legendary musician Neil Young made a triumphant return to the stage, performing at the Autism Speaks Light Up The Blues 7 concert held at the iconic Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. This rare live performance was dedicated to a significant cause, emphasizing the importance of awareness and advocacy for autism. Young’s participation in such a meaningful event not only showcased his musical talents but also highlighted his commitment to social issues, drawing attention from fans and advocates alike. The concert was a blend of entertainment and heartfelt messages, reinforcing the role of music in promoting important causes and community support.

During an electrifying set filled with unexpected moments, Neil Young introduced a brand new song titled “Let’s Roll Again”. Additionally, he performed the 18-minute deep cut “Ordinary People” for the very first time in 36 years. This particular track was originally recorded during the sessions for the critically acclaimed Freedom album in 1989, but it was ultimately left off the final tracklist. It remained unreleased until it found its way onto Chrome Dreams II in 2007, making this performance a historic moment for both the artist and his fans. The re-emergence of this song exemplifies Young’s dedication to revisiting and reviving his musical legacy, ensuring that even long-forgotten tracks receive the recognition they deserve.

Neil Young’s recent performance also coincides with preparations for an extensive world tour with his newly formed band, Chrome Hearts. While details regarding the band’s debut project remain under wraps, the unveiling of “Let’s Roll Again” serves as the first glimpse of new material emerging from these sessions. Fans are eagerly anticipating what this new chapter in Young’s storied career will bring, as he continues to push creative boundaries and explore new musical territories. The excitement surrounding his upcoming tour and fresh compositions has reignited interest in Young’s music and artistic evolution, promising to captivate audiences worldwide.

At the concert on Saturday, Young had a heartwarming reunion with his longtime collaborator Stephen Stills. Together, the iconic duo performed Buffalo Springfield’s legendary protest anthem “For What It’s Worth,” alongside other classics like “Human Highway” and “Rockin’ in the Free World.” Stills was also joined by Nathaniel Rateliff for a rendition of “Colorado,” a track originally released by Stills’ band Manassas back in 1972. This collaboration not only showcased the enduring friendship and chemistry between the artists but also highlighted their continued relevance in the music scene, as they brought powerful messages through their performances.

The return of “Ordinary People” to Young’s setlist is part of a larger trend, as he often revives rare material during his live performances. Earlier in the month, Young graced the stage alongside Joan Baez and Maggie Rogers at a rally hosted by Bernie Sanders, where they delivered a moving rendition of Young’s own protest anthem “Rockin’ in the Free World.” His ability to connect past and present through the revival of these timeless pieces speaks volumes about his impact and legacy as a musician and activist, reinforcing the enduring power of music as a form of protest and social commentary.

This memorable moment unfolded on April 12 at a political rally organized by Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in Los Angeles’ Grand Park. The event focused on anti-corporate messaging and the need for grassroots political reform. In addition to the collaborative performances, Young delivered a solo set, concluding the rally on a powerful note. He began with “Rainbow of Colors,” a heartfelt track from his 2019 album Colorado, before transitioning into the iconic “Rockin’ in the Free World.” This sequence not only showcased his musical prowess but also highlighted the role of artists in advocating for social change.

Midway through his performance of “Rockin’ in the Free World,” both Baez and Rogers joined Young on stage, creating a powerful moment as they alternated vocal leads and led the audience in chants of “Power to the people” and “Take America back.” This collaborative effort exemplified the unity and strength found in music as a catalyst for social change, showcasing how performances can transcend entertainment to become powerful statements of solidarity and activism. The synergy between these artists and their commitment to social justice resonated deeply with the audience, leaving a lasting impact on all those in attendance.