Neil Young fears Trump could block his US return
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Neil Young has expressed concerns about potentially being denied re-entry to the United States following his upcoming European tour, citing his outspoken criticism of former President Donald Trump as a possible reason for such action.
The legendary musician shared his apprehensions on his Neil Young Archives website, stating: “When I go to play music in Europe, if I talk about Donald J. Trump, I may be one of those returning to America who is barred or put in jail to sleep on a cement floor with an aluminum blanket.”
The 79-year-old dual Canadian-American citizen is scheduled to perform across Europe in June and July – his first European appearances in six years – before returning to American soil in August. Young voiced particular concern about the potential impact on ticket holders if he were to face entry restrictions upon his return.
I don't like to curse here, but …
This fucker tried to cancel Joe Rogan and NOW he's saying he'll be banned by Trump
What an absolute clownhttps://t.co/3gtS8VB0qY
— Christian Toto (@HollywoodInToto) April 2, 2025
Young’s relationship with Trump has been contentious for years. Their public disputes date back to 2015 when the musician objected to Trump’s unauthorized use of “Rockin’ In the Free World” during his campaign launch, eventually resulting in legal action to prevent further use of his music.
“Imaging what it feels like to hear Rockin’ in the Free World after this president speaks, like it is his theme song,” he wrote at the time. “I did not write it for that.”
After obtaining U.S. citizenship in 2020, Young penned an open letter denouncing Trump as “a disgrace to my country.” In his recent website post, he questioned the implications for freedom of speech if his criticism of Trump could prevent his return to the U.S.
Neil Young Fears He Won't Be Allowed Back in U.S. After European Tour, Due to Speaking Out Against Trump, 'Worst President in the History of Our Great Country' https://t.co/UGEhUoDBIi
— Variety (@Variety) April 1, 2025
The musician expressed particular concern about what he perceives as attacks on free speech, describing recent enforcement actions as “spineless.” He wrote: “It seems that those who speak out freely with their own opinions are now vulnerable to a non-existent Trump law that makes it possible for you to go to jail or be detained, punished in some way for not showing allegiance to what?”
Young concluded his message with a pointed reference to the pledge of allegiance, stating: “One country, indivisible, with Liberty and Freedom for all. Remember that? I do.”
