Coronavirus: Bernie Sanders' rally goes digital with Neil Young and Jim James as guest performers
Bernie Sanders seems to be making headlines aplenty these days but in ways you wouldn't quite expect. The Democratic presidential hopeful has been garnering much musical support for his rallies with several artists performing for their favorite politician. His latest campaign, which comes ahead of the March 17 primary election, will feature guest appearances from Neil Young and wife Daryl Hannah, as well as musical performances by The Free Nationals and My Morning Jacket's frontman Jim James, according to reports.
Since coronavirus has become a pandemic and many industries are practically at a standstill, Sanders' new rally will go digital and will be live-streamed for all his supporters.
James said in a statement, "There are so many of us that just want to find common ground with all living beings so that we can move forward together as a world to live in peace, good health, and equality." According to Stereogum, he added, "Bernie speaks and lives the truth and has worked his entire life fighting for truth and justice — bringing people together for the common good and that is why I believe he can help unite us now."
James is an American vocalist, guitarist, producer and primarily known as the songwriter for the alternative country band My Morning Jacket. The 41-year-old singer has released three studio albums as a solo artist.
Young is a Canadian–American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and activist and is often considered by some as one of the most influential and prolific songwriters of all time. Young has produced a multitude of studio albums since his career began in the late '60s.
According to Stereogum, Young published an open letter on his website Neil Young Archives and officially endorsed Sanders for President on February 19. In the letter, Young addressed President Donald Trump directly and said he is "a disgrace to my country".
Among the list of musicians who took the stage in support of Sanders were the Strokes, Bon Iver, Brandi Carlile, Vampire Weekend and Jack White. Even Public Enemy's Chuck D came to support Sanders at a rally at Los Angeles Convention Center on March 1.
The 'Bernie 2020 Digital Rally' will start on March 17 at 7 pm EST. You can watch it here.