Neil Young Performs ‘Sail Away’ from ‘Rust Never Sleeps’ After 12 Years

## Neil Young and Chrome Hearts’ Summer Tour Finale

Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts wrapped up their summer tour with a stunning performance at the Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View, California. During the concert, Young delighted fans by performing the deep cut “Sail Away” for the first time since Willie Nelson’s 80th birthday concert in 2013.

### The History of “Sail Away”

“Sail Away” was initially introduced to the world on August 1, 1977, by a short-lived band called the Ducks, which featured Young alongside Bob Mosley from Moby Grape. This track became a staple in their setlist throughout the summer, and it was recorded later that year at Triad Recording Studios in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The following months saw additional layers added by bassist Joe Osborn, drummer Karl Himmel, and background singer Nicolette Larson at Woodland Studios in Nashville.

### A Rare Performance and Tour Highlights

The rendition of “Sail Away” featured in the concert marked its first live appearance in years, especially after the track became a rarity following the 1980s. It had only been performed at select benefit concerts in 2009 and during Nelson’s birthday show in 2013. The Shoreline Amphitheater show also featured the tour debut of “Vampire Blues,” showcasing the band’s evolving setlist.

Just days prior, Young and the Chrome Hearts had a memorable show in Bend, Oregon, where they creatively strayed from their established setlist, treating the audience to an impromptu performance that included an unexpected double play of “Cowgirl in the Sand” followed by “Down by the River.”

### Looking Ahead

The summer tour is set to conclude on Monday night at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. Before then, the band will participate in Farm Aid 40 in Minneapolis this Saturday. Following some labor disputes, the event is back on track. After Farm Aid, Young’s next scheduled performance is Harvest Moon — A Gather on October 25 in Lake Hughes, California, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Painted Turtle and the Bridge School. He will share the stage with Beck.

What was your favorite moment from Neil Young’s tour this summer?