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Legendary musician Neil Young has revealed that he will no longer be gracing the stage at the Glastonbury Festival 2025 due to a dispute with the BBC.
The vocalist and his newly formed live band, The Chrome Hearts, were expected to take the stage at Worthy Farm, Somerset, this upcoming June, marking 16 years since the 79-year-old rock icon previously headlined the Pyramid Stage.
A surprising change of heart has led the Canadian artist to withdraw from the festival, citing the event’s “corporate control” under the BBC.
Neil Young’s Disappointment with Glastonbury Festival 2025
In an open letter posted on the Neil Young Archives website, Young expressed his disappointment:
“The Chrome Hearts and I eagerly anticipated performing at Glastonbury, one of my favorite outdoor concerts of all time.
However, we were informed that the BBC had become a partner in the festival and sought numerous requirements that did not align with our interests. It appears that Glastonbury is now under corporate governance and is no longer the event I recall.
Consequently, we will not be participating in Glastonbury during this tour, as it has become a corporate turn-off and no longer resonates with me as it once did. I look forward to seeing you at one of the other venues on the tour.”
The specific reasons behind Young’s cancellation from the festival remain ambiguous. The BBC and Glastonbury Festival organizers have been contacted for official statements.
The BBC’s Involvement and Past Performances
The BBC has been broadcasting the festival since 1997. Last year, the event was made available globally for the first time. Young’s most recent performance at Glastonbury in 2009 was broadcast across the BBC’s television and radio platforms.
The 2025 Glastonbury Festival Lineup and Speculations
Reports emerged last month indicating Young’s plans to headline the Glastonbury Festival 2025. A source disclosed to The Sun: “Neil and his band The Chrome Hearts are finalizing plans for European tours next year, with Glastonbury being a strong possibility.
“Last time he performed there in 2009, his headline set on the Pyramid Stage was extraordinary. He is eager to perform a series of major shows in Europe, with his team working on securing a spot on the lineup.
“Glastonbury seems to be returning to its roots of rock music, and if they can secure Neil, it would be a phenomenal addition to what is already shaping up to be an impressive lineup.”
Sir Rod Stewart became the first act confirmed for Glastonbury 2025, with the festival announcing that the rock legend will play the Legends slot on the Pyramid Stage.