Neil Young has declared that he will not be taking the stage at this year’s Glastonbury festival, expressing his view that the BBC’s affiliation with the esteemed event indicates that it is “now under corporate jurisdiction.”
The 79-year-old artist mentioned on his website that both he and his band, The Chrome Hearts, were withdrawing as it was a “corporate disinterest.”
Glastonbury, held at Worthy Farm in Somerset each summer, has had a close relationship with the BBC since 1997.
The BBC serves as the festival’s exclusive broadcasting partner.
The Canadian-born Young had not yet been announced as a performer at this year’s festival.
In a posting on Neil Young Archives, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer expressed: “The Chrome Hearts and I were eager to perform at Glastonbury, which stands as one of my ultimate favorite outdoor concerts.
“We were informed that the BBC had become a partner in Glastonbury and wished for us to adhere to numerous protocols we were not interested in following.
“It appears Glastonbury is now positioned under corporate influence and does not resemble the event I once knew.”
Young performing at Glastonbury in 2009. Pic: PA
Young, who headlined the renowned Pyramid Stage in 2009, expressed gratitude to supporters of both him and his band during their last appearance at the festival.
He continued: “We will not be appearing at Glastonbury during this tour as it represents a corporate disinterest, and it does not feel like the experience it once was.”
“I hope to see you at one of our other tour locations.”
Young, who is wedded to American actress Daryl Hannah, was originally scheduled to perform at Glastonbury in 1997 but had to withdraw after accidentally slicing his left index finger while preparing a ham sandwich.
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After his headlining act in 2009, audiences were left disheartened when only a fraction of his performance was aired by the BBC.
At the time, the corporation stated that it had “spent the previous couple of months” negotiating with Young’s management regarding the extent of what it could broadcast on television, radio, and online.
The broadcaster further added: “Neil Young’s career has always been managed on his own terms.
“Last night, Neil’s management consented to allow television and radio to air five songs while they observed and enjoyed his performance.
“They are committed to the live experience and preserving its mystique and that of their artist.
“They opted to make one song available online over the weekend to provide a glimpse of his set. That song is Rockin’ In The Free World, and that was their choice.”
Glastonbury is among the largest music festivals in the UK.
It is scheduled to occur from June 25 to June 29, with Sir Rod Stewart confirmed for the Sunday afternoon legend slot.
The BBC and Glastonbury Festival were approached for comments.
