Neil Young’s Concerns About Returning to the U.S.
Neil Young expressed uncertainty about his potential return to the United States following his criticism of President Donald Trump. Below are his insights on the matter.
Upcoming Performances and Tour Plans
In just a few months, Young is set to return to the UK and Europe as part of his global tour “Love Earth” with Chrome Hearts. This will feature performances at the Glastonbury festival at the end of June, alongside a slot at BST Hyde Park next month. In August, he plans to head back to the USA to conduct his North American tour dates.
However, the Canadian folk icon is questioning whether he will be allowed back into the United States after his European tour, given his frequent criticisms of the president. This follows reports that the Trump administration has deported and detained several immigrants due to their political views, affecting pro-Palestine activists and those who support Ukraine against Russia.
Young wrote on his Neil Young Archive blog on April 1: “When I play music in Europe and discuss Donald J. Trump, I could be one of those who isn’t allowed back into America or is forced to sleep on a cement floor with an aluminum blanket. This is happening frequently. New regulations are being introduced for those returning to America… If I come back from Europe and cannot perform my American tour, those who bought tickets will miss the concert.”
He added, “This is serious, folks. If you speak negatively about Trump or his administration, you may be barred from returning to the United States. For Canadians with dual citizenship, who knows what will happen? We will figure it out together.”
“If my belief that Donald Trump is the worst president in the history of our great country may prevent me from returning, what does that say about freedom? … Remember freedom of speech? What is this a testament of loyalty to?”
Young has previously voiced strong criticism of President Trump. In 2020, he filed a lawsuit against Trump for copyright infringement over the unauthorized use of his song “Rockin’ in the Free World” and released several open letters on his website denouncing the ongoing unauthorized use of his music. Last year, he granted permission to Kamala Harris to use one of his songs in her campaign for vice president.
This summer, Yusuf/Kat Stevens and Van Morrison are set to join Young as headliners at BST Hyde Park, with additional support acts to be announced. Check tickets here.
Beyond his live performances, Young has also recently released a new track with his band The Chrome Hearts, titled “Big Change.” He has updated fans regarding his debut album with the group, expressing his hope to release it in April ahead of the summer tour.
“It’s currently in the mastering phase, preparing vinyl, CD, and digital copies,” Young shared. “I’m very pleased and relieved to have completed this in a short time. The artwork for the album is finished and sent to Jenis. I am now working on the lyric sheets, hoping to handwritten the words and input them over time…”
https://www.nme.com/news/music/neil-young-is-unsure-if-hell-be-able-to-return-to-the-us-after-criticising-trump-remember-freedom-of-speech-3851047?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=neil-young-is-unsure-if-hell-be-able-to-return-to-the-us-after-criticising-trump-remember-freedom-of-speech
