Young Shakespeare: "Down By The River" | Neil Young Archives + Comment of the Moment

"Down By The River" - Young Shakespeare | Times-Contrarian | Neil Young Archives

In February, Neil Young announced the upcoming "Young Shakespeare" release.

Writing in Times Contrarian | NYA, Neil Young discusses the unreleased album and film titled "Young Shakespeare" from January 1971 at the Shakespeare Theater in Stratford, Connecticut as "the earliest known film of any of my performances."

Neil Young Concert Ticket Stub
1971-01-22, Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford, Connecticut, USA
via Sugar Mountain

While release plans remain uncertain, Neil tantalizingly teases that maybe he'll pair "Young Shakespeare" with the 50th Anniversary release of "After The Goldrush" later this year as a double record.

Here's the Comment of the Moment from "Please, Do NOT Support Thrasher's Wheat" by Dan:

Just finished watching and listening to Down By The River from Young Shakespeare at NYA, and was completely transfixed by Neil’s vocals. This performance is a remarkable example of a artist truly in the zone, and you can feel it in your soul when that happens.

Music has always been my co conspirator throughout my life, and is responsible for most of what I know, and how I think. Music is a healer and a educator, as well as a pure form of entertainment. During these difficult days I have aloud music to keep me grounded as I navigate the challenge of processing what has been happening around this beautiful world of ours. Knowing that so many people are suffering, not only from the virus but with the emotional effects of something so completely out of our control.

The one thing that we can all do to help the situation is doing nothing. Stay at home and keep your distance. Usually when troubles arrive, we take action, and look for tangible things we can do to help, but with this virus we are told to stay home and wait. This can take a real toll on one’s nervous system, creating anxiety and depression and a sense of helplessness. If anyone reading this is feeling this way I encourage you to turn to your favorite music to get through this. The healing power of music should never be underestimated and if you go to NYA right now and listen to this perfect version of Down By The River you will understand what I mean. Tap into Neil’s voice and close your eyes and let the melody carry you. You have the opportunity to experience the power of music to heal your heart and soul right now.

Peace

Thanks much Dan.

Right. Music = The Cure. Not to sound naive here, but stress makes one's immune system weak and vulnerable. So de-stress and stay safe and healthy everyone.

Keep Calm, No Fear, Shut It Down, & Keep on Rockin'!

More on "Young Shakespeare" + tracklist.

"Young Shakespeare"

---