Hamilton represents at birthday bash for Neil Young

The legendary singer-songwriter has turned 80 and a tribute show at Massey Hall last week brought out plenty of musicians with deep local connections.

All photos by Bob Hatcher

A roster of Canadian musicians turned out for NY80: A Celebration of Neil Young and his Music on the occasion of his 80th birthday. The Nov. 12 event at Massey Hall was a sellout, though the man of honour wasn't in attendance. Young sent a message via video that expressed his gratitude for the concert, which featured performances of many of his iconic songs, including "Heart of Gold," "Hey Hy My My," "Old Man," "Harvest Moon," "Southern Man," "Ohio," "After the Gold Rush," "Look Out for My Love," "Don't Let it Bring You Down," "Cinnamon Girl," and "Down by the River."

Hamilton and Burlington were well represented at the show, which featured performances by Hamilton residents Luke Bentham, Tom and Thompson Wilson, and The Redhill Valleys, along with Burlington native Sarah Harmer. Other performers with local connections included Hamilton native Colin Cripps, and former city residents Luke Doucet, Aaron Goldstein, and Kathleen Edwards.

Also performing were Charlotte Cornfield, Rose Cousins, Jim Cuddy, Ian Blurton, Gordie Johnson, Matt Mays, The OBGMs, Peter and Leah of July Talk, Joel and Bill Plaskett, William Prince, Serena Ryder, Sate, Julian Taylor, Skye Wallace, Ruby Waters and Donovan Woods.

Musician and CBC Radio host Tom Powers hosted the show.

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