Rock icon Neil Young has never shied away from speaking his mind — and this week, he returned to the spotlight with a powerful new protest anthem titled “Big Crime.” Premiered during a live show at the Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island in Chicago on August 27, the track takes direct aim at former U.S. President Donald Trump and broader concerns about the state of American democracy.
Backed by his latest band, The Chrome Hearts, Young used the performance to debut the song, which is now also available via a soundcheck clip and full lyrics on his official Neil Young Archives under the title “BIG CRIME AT CHICAGO SOUNDCHECK.”
A Stirring Call Against Authoritarianism
“Big Crime” showcases Young’s unmistakable blend of raw energy and lyrical conviction. The song sharply critiques what he describes as growing authoritarianism and billionaire influence in Washington, D.C.
Highlighted lines include:
“Don’t need no fascist rules,
Don’t want no fascist school,
Don’t want soldiers on our streets,
There’s big crime in DC at the White House.”
The track climaxes with a pointed twist on a familiar political slogan:
“NO MORE GREAT AGAIN, No NO MORE GREAT AGAIN,
There’s big crime in DC at THE White House…”
With a fierce guitar edge and charged vocals, the song delivers a clear message: Young remains as passionate — and political — as ever.
A Longstanding Disagreement
Young’s relationship with Trump has long been contentious. Over the years, the 79-year-old artist has objected to Trump’s unauthorized use of his music at rallies and has openly criticized the former president, calling him a “disgrace” to the nation.
Earlier in 2025, Young also voiced concerns about his dual citizenship status (U.S. and Canadian), speculating that if Trump were to return to office, he could face trouble at the border or even risk being denied re-entry to the U.S.
Carrying On a Legacy of Protest
“Big Crime” follows Young’s earlier 2025 release “Big Change,” another politically charged track urging reform and responsibility in American leadership. Throughout his decades-long career, Neil Young has used his music to challenge authority — whether opposing war, corporate greed, or environmental destruction.
More recently, he has also spoken out against powerful tech figures, including Elon Musk, reinforcing his reputation as an artist who isn’t afraid to confront those in positions of influence.
Music With a Message
With “Big Crime,” Neil Young adds another chapter to his enduring legacy of music-driven activism. Blending classic rock grit with urgent social commentary, the song is a timely reminder of the role music can play in stirring thought, conversation, and change.
As America heads into another heated political season, Young’s voice remains unmistakable — not just as a singer, but as a storyteller, a truth-teller, and an unwavering force for what he believes in.
