In Wake of Pandemic, Neil Young Updates ‘Shut It Down’

Singer-guitarist Neil Young has released a new version of “Shut It Down” that he’s re-titled “Shut It Down 2020.” The track comes from Colorado, his current album with Crazy Horse. The new version of the song was inspired by fans reaching out to Young via neilyoungarchives.com and telling him about the tune’s “elevated poignancy” during this pandemic. Neil Young and Daryl Hannah created a video to accompany the re-imagined track. 

Colorado was recorded high in the Rocky Mountains and produced by Neil Young and John Hanlon and is the first new music from Neil Young & Crazy Horse since 2012’s Psychedelic Pill. “Shut It Down 2020” features Billy Talbot (bass/vocals), Ralph Molina (drums/vocals) and Nils Lofgren (guitar/vocals). 

“These are uncertain times,” says Young in a statement. “I wish you all the best as you care for our sick, the young and old who we love so much. Sending the best wishes to all the health care and government workers all over the world, to all the scientists who will learn and share with us the best ways to ensure survival in our world challenged. Let’s all work together and stay positive that we will find a way. With love to all, in all walks of life, all political persuasions, all colors.”

We will succeed working together for the good of our world as we are here together, hanging in the balance of nature.

Young has posted his Fireside Sessions livestream concerts from his home in Colorado, and more will be announced shortly. Neil and his Archives team have opened up his subscription website NeilYoungArchives.com so that is now free for all to explore and enjoy during these challenging times. 

“Because we are all at home and not venturing out,” Young says, “we will try to do a stream from my fireplace with my lovely wife filming. It will be a down-home production, a few songs, a little time together. Peace and love.” 

Photo: Neil Young Still from Mountaintop Sessions filmed by dhlovelife