Neil Young at Glastonbury 2025: The Return, The Setlist, and the Story

Did He Play? No (Yet!)

Neil Young’s appearance at Glastonbury 2025 is confirmed, marking a triumphant return after a brief period of uncertainty. This article will serve as a live-updating hub for all things Neil Young at Glastonbury, from pre-festival buzz to post-performance analysis.

The Boycott, the Backtrack, and the Buzz

Initially, Young announced his intention to boycott Glastonbury 2025, citing concerns over corporate sponsorship, particularly the BBC’s involvement. This sparked widespread discussion about the role of corporate interests in music festivals and the potential compromise of artistic integrity. However, following clarification from Glastonbury organizer Emily Eavis, Young reversed his decision, attributing the initial boycott to misinformation. Eavis publicly welcomed his return, putting an end to the speculation and fueling anticipation for his performance.

Timeline: A Glastonbury Saga

Late 2024: Rumors emerge suggesting Neil Young may boycott Glastonbury 2025 over corporate sponsorship concerns.
Early 2025: Young publicly announces his intention to boycott the festival.
Mid 2025: Following discussions with Emily Eavis, Young reverses his decision, citing misinformation about the BBC’s role. Eavis confirms his appearance.

Performance Details

Date and Time of Performance: June 25-29, 2025 (exact date and time TBA). The official Glastonbury schedule will be released closer to the festival. [Link to Official Glastonbury Schedule (placeholder – update when available)]
Stage: TBA – [Link to Glastonbury Festival Map (placeholder – update when available)]
Setlist: TBA – Check back after the performance for a detailed setlist.

Anticipating the Setlist: What Might Neil Play?

While the official setlist remains a mystery, speculation abounds. Given Young’s extensive catalog and his history of championing social and political causes, the possibilities are vast. Will he favor fan favorites like “Heart of Gold” and “Old Man”? Or might he lean towards more politically charged anthems like “Rockin’ in the Free World” and “Ohio,” particularly given the context of his near-boycott? Some experts suggest the setlist may include a mix of classic hits and deeper cuts, reflecting both his musical legacy and the circumstances surrounding his return to Glastonbury.

Potential Song	Album	Year
Heart of Gold	Harvest	1972
Old Man	Harvest	1972
Rockin’ in the Free World	Freedom	1989
Ohio	Various (Single)	1970
Like a Hurricane	American Stars ‘n Bars	1977

The Review: A Post-Performance Analysis (Coming Soon)

This section will be updated with a comprehensive review following Young’s performance. We’ll delve into the highlights, key moments, audience reaction, and the overall impact of his set. Stay tuned!

Untapped Potential: The Bigger Picture

Young’s near-boycott and subsequent return have ignited a broader conversation about corporate influence in music festivals. It raises questions about artistic integrity, the financial realities of large-scale events, and the evolving relationship between artists and sponsors. Did Young’s actions set a precedent for other artists? Will festivals reconsider their approach to corporate partnerships? The long-term impact remains to be seen, but the discussion is undoubtedly valuable.