Neil Young’s headline performance on Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage on Saturday night initially faced skepticism, with a smaller crowd than expected at the start. However, as the legendary 79-year-old musician launched into timeless hits like “Harvest Moon,” the audience steadily grew, drawn in by his unmistakable, raw rock sound.
Appearing solo with just an acoustic guitar, harmonica, and his signature cap, Neil delivered a stripped-back set that resonated deeply with fans. Known for iconic tracks such as “Rockin' In The Free World,” “Like A Hurricane,” and “Cinnamon Girl,” Neil captured the spirit of classic rock with no frills, no theatrics—just pure, authentic music.
While some early social media critics questioned the choice of Neil Young as the festival’s Saturday night headliner, his dedicated fans rallied to defend the rock legend. One admirer called the booking “genius,” praising Neil’s ability to deliver a powerful performance despite a quieter start. Another fan applauded his no-nonsense approach, contrasting it with modern, flashier acts and emphasizing that Glastonbury remains a rock festival at heart.
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Many highlighted the divide between Neil’s era and the younger “TikTok generation,” noting that the artist “doesn’t need to prove anything” to newer audiences unfamiliar with his legacy. Fans appreciated the honesty and simplicity of his set, describing it as a refreshing return to roots rock that challenged conventional expectations.
Initially, the BBC announced they would not broadcast Neil’s show due to the artist’s wishes. However, reactions shifted, and the set was ultimately aired live across the UK, much to the delight of fans unable to attend. In a cheeky nod to the broadcast, Neil remarked during his performance, “Hello to people watching in their bedrooms.”
His setlist included powerful performances of “Be The Rain,” “When You Dance I Can Really Love,” “Cinnamon Girl,” and “Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black),” the latter referencing punk icon Johnny Rotten. Interestingly, Neil had earlier planned to headline Glastonbury 2025 but reconsidered following concerns over BBC’s involvement—only to later embrace the collaboration.
In the end, Neil Young’s Glastonbury headline slot proved to be a poignant reminder of rock’s enduring impact, connecting generations through authentic music and spirited performance.