Minnesota lit up tonight as thousands gathered in unity — not just for the music, but for a cause that has spanned generations. Under the open sky, the state played host to a historic celebration of America’s farmers and the music legends who have stood by them for four decades.
The highlight of the evening came with the introduction of the incomparable Willie Nelson, whose presence carried special meaning. Forty years ago, Nelson, alongside Neil Young and John Mellencamp, launched Farm Aid, an annual concert dedicated to supporting family farmers and raising awareness about the challenges they face. What began as a rallying cry in 1985 has grown into one of America’s most enduring musical and humanitarian traditions.
“This isn’t just about music,” Nelson reminded the crowd. “It’s about the people who feed, fuel, and clothe us every single day.” His words, simple yet profound, echoed across the packed venue, underscoring the night’s deeper purpose.
The atmosphere was electric — fans swayed, sang, and stood shoulder to shoulder, united in gratitude for both the farmers who sustain the nation and the artists who have never stopped advocating for them.
Forty years on, the mission of Farm Aid endures — and so does the music that carries it.
