Neil Young proved that some songs are worth the wait when he surprised fans at Colorado’s Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater with his first performance of “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” in six years. The 79-year-old folk rock legend delivered the emotional ballad during his Love Earth Tour stop in Englewood, creating one of those magical concert moments that remind audiences why live music remains irreplaceable.
According to Live for Live Music, the performance marked Young’s first rendition of the beloved track since a solo benefit concert on Sept. 14, 2019. While his voice may not reach the high falsettos of the original 1970 recording from “After the Gold Rush,” the raw authenticity of his aged vocals brought new depth to the classic.
Why Did Neil Young Bring Back “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” After Six Years?
Young’s Labor Day weekend show demonstrated his commitment to mining his extensive catalog for rarely heard gems. The 17-song setlist spanned his entire career, opening with “Ambulance Blues” from 1974’s “On the Beach” and including classics like “Cowgirl in the Sand” and the protest anthem “Ohio” from his Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young days.
The Chrome Hearts, Young’s current backing band, provided stellar support throughout the evening. Former Promise of the Real bassist Corey McCormick added vocal harmonies, while multi-instrumentalist Micah Nelson doubled on piano alongside organist Spooner Oldham, a member of the legendary Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section. Former Promise of the Real drummer Anthony LoGerfo completed the lineup.
What Other Rare Neil Young Songs Has He Been Performing on the Love Earth Tour?
This performance represents part of Young’s pattern of reviving forgotten treasures during his current tour. Recent shows have featured other long-absent songs, including “Long Walk Home,” which he hadn’t performed since 1989, and “This Note’s For You,” absent from setlists since 1997…