The revival of “Ambulance Blues” for Neil Young’s recent tour

fter a considerable hiatus, Neil Young unexpectedly resurrected his classic song ‘Ambulance Blues’ during his recent tour with the Chrome Hearts, much to the delight of his devoted fans. Known for his reluctance to adhere to external pressures or expectations in choosing his setlists, Young’s decision to introduce old favorites back into his live performances showcases his current comfort with revisiting his extensive musical repertoire.

The performance of ‘Ambulance Blues’ at the Summerstage Festival in Gröningen, Netherlands, marked a significant moment for Young and his band. As Young casually announced, “I haven’t played this in, like, 100 years,” before launching into the nine-minute epic, it became evident that this song held a special place in his heart. Despite the hyperbolic nature of his statement, which exaggerated the length of time since the song’s last live performance, Young’s decision to include ‘Ambulance Blues’ in his setlist with the Chrome Hearts was a deliberate and meaningful choice.

Micah Nelson, Young’s guitarist in the Chrome Hearts, shed light on the origins of their decision to reintroduce ‘Ambulance Blues’ during the tour. A casual jam session in Brussels, fueled by alcohol and marijuana, unexpectedly led to a conversation about folk musician Bert Jansch, prompting Young to reveal that he had drawn inspiration from Jansch’s work for the melody of ‘Ambulance Blues’. This revelation sparked the band’s interest in learning the song and ultimately resulted in its inclusion in their setlist, starting with the Groningen show as the opening song.

Nelson highlighted the significance of ‘Ambulance Blues’, explaining that its introspective lyrics and nostalgic references set the tone for a musical journey through rock and roll history. By revisiting this classic track, Young not only delighted his dedicated fanbase but also paid tribute to his musical roots and influences. The decision to incorporate ‘Ambulance Blues’ into the tour’s setlist was a testament to Young’s ongoing creative exploration and willingness to embrace his past work with newfound appreciation and enthusiasm.

As Neil Young continues to captivate audiences with his timeless music and unparalleled stage presence, the inclusion of ‘Ambulance Blues’ in his recent tour represents a poignant reminder of his iconic status in the rock music landscape. With each live performance, Young reaffirms his legacy as a legendary artist who remains unapologetically true to his artistic vision and uncompromising in his musical expression. As fans eagerly anticipate future opportunities to experience Young’s music live, the resurgence of ‘Ambulance Blues’ serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power and significance of his extraordinary body of work.