Farm Aid 2024: John Mellencamp Takes the Stage
On Saturday, John Mellencamp hit the stage at this year’s Farm Aid festival in Saratoga Springs, New York, joining a lineup of renowned musicians in support of the event’s mission to promote American agriculture and family farming.
Mellencamp’s Message
In a pre-show press conference, Mellencamp emphasized the importance of farmers’ voices being heard in the face of corporate America’s increasing influence on the agricultural industry. “The younger people who are doing this work [farming] need to get out and make some noise about it. Make some f—ing noise,” he said. “If you don’t, corporate America will take it away….If you want a better world, it starts with you.”
A Brief History of Farm Aid
Founded in 1985 by Mellencamp, Willie Nelson, and Neil Young, Farm Aid has been a stalwart advocate for American farmers and sustainable agriculture. The first Farm Aid concert, held in Champaign, Illinois, featured an all-star lineup including Bob Dylan, Billy Joel, B.B. King, Loretta Lynn, Roy Orbison, and Tom Petty, raising approximately nine million dollars for family farmers.
This Year’s Lineup
This year’s Farm Aid festival in Saratoga Springs featured a diverse lineup of artists, including Dave Matthews, Mavis Staples, Margo Price, Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats, Lukas Nelson with the Travelin’ McCourys, Charley Crockett, Joy Oladokun, Southern Avenue, Cassandra Lewis, and Jesse Welles.
John Mellencamp’s Set List
Mellencamp’s set list included:
- “John Cockers”
- “Paper in Fire”
- “Small Town”
- “Check It Out”
- “Longest Days”
- “Jack & Diane”
- “Rain on the Scarecrow”
- “Pink Houses”
Farm Aid’s Mission
Farm Aid’s mission is to promote a strong and resilient family farm system of agriculture in the United States. The organization believes that family farmers are the backbone of the country’s food system and that they should be supported and celebrated. Through its annual festivals and advocacy efforts, Farm Aid aims to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable agriculture and to provide a platform for family farmers to share their stories and connect with their communities.
Conclusion
Farm Aid 2024 was a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting American family farmers and sustainable agriculture. With its rich history and diverse lineup of artists, the event continues to inspire and educate audiences about the critical role that family farmers play in shaping the country’s food system. As Mellencamp so eloquently put it, “If you want a better world, it starts with you.” By attending Farm Aid and supporting its mission, concertgoers can make a positive impact on the future of American agriculture.
FAQs
Q: What is Farm Aid?
A: Farm Aid is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1985 by Willie Nelson, Neil Young, and John Mellencamp to promote American agriculture and family farming.
Q: What is the purpose of Farm Aid’s annual festival?
A: The annual Farm Aid festival is a celebration of American agriculture and family farming, featuring live music performances and advocacy efforts to support family farmers and sustainable agriculture.
Q: Who performs at Farm Aid?
A: Farm Aid has featured a wide range of artists over the years, including Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews, Mavis Staples, and many others.
Q: How can I get involved with Farm Aid?
A: You can get involved with Farm Aid by attending its annual festival, volunteering, donating, or spreading the word about the organization’s mission and importance.
Q: What are some ways to support family farmers?
A: Some ways to support family farmers include buying locally grown produce, attending farmers’ markets, and supporting organizations that advocate for sustainable agriculture.
