Embracing Her Roots and Musical Heritage, Astrid Young and Company Give Tribute to the Iconic Sounds of CSNY.

June 26th, 2024

Astrid Young: Embracing Her Legacy and Crafting Her Path

Astrid Young is set to light up the stage at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale on July 20th, bringing her distinctive blend of musical influences and personal flair to a historic lineup. As a seasoned performer with roots tracing back to the golden era of rock and roll, Astrid is no stranger to the stage, yet her upcoming show holds a special significance.

Astrid’s excitement about the Florida show is palpable. “I lived in Florida when I was really little,” she recalls, noting the oddity of not having returned despite a life on the road. Her connection to the state adds a layer of nostalgia and anticipation to her performance, making it a homecoming of sorts.

Her unique sound is a testament to her diverse influences, from classical to heavy rock, seamlessly blending her style with timeless hits. When asked how she integrates her personal style with the iconic tracks of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, she explains, “It’s all about the choice of repertoire. I tailor what I do to the audience… I’m just going to stick to the stuff that I know everybody’s going to love.”

Growing up surrounded by legendary musicians, Astrid has an intrinsic connection to the music of CSNY. “My brother, I’ve grown up with him all my life. And then the guys in CSNY too. I’ve known them all since I was a little girl. So, it’s really part of my DNA in a big way,” she shares. Performing songs like “Deja Vu” and “Wooden Ships” is a natural fit for her, as these tracks have been a part of her life since childhood.

Astrid marvels at the enduring appeal of the music she performs. “Great music transcends the ages. A good song never really gets old. None of it feels dated,” she observes. Her performances often attract multiple generations of fans, all united by their love for timeless music. “You’ve got the tweens and the teenagers that are just as excited about the music as their parents, their grandparents,” she notes, highlighting the music’s broad and lasting impact.

The upcoming tour is not just about the music; it’s a gathering of friends and family. Esteemed photographer Henry Diltz and recording engineer Stephen Barncard will be sharing their unique perspectives and stories, adding depth to the performances. “Henry’s got some stories that nobody else has,” Astrid notes. The inclusion of these key figures creates a rich, family-oriented atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.

While Astrid has known many of her fellow performers for years, some band members are new to her. However, she anticipates a natural chemistry. “We’re all connected to the same story,” she says, confident that their shared experiences and musical backgrounds will foster an easy collaboration.

Despite comparisons to iconic acts like Alice in Chains and being dubbed “Karen Carpenter on acid,” Astrid has always followed her own creative path. “How people interpret what I do is really up to them,” she says. Her music transcends genres, aiming to take listeners on a journey, which she hopes will resonate deeply with her audience.

Astrid’s ability to read the room and adapt her setlist accordingly is one of her strengths. “I might mix it up on the night, depending on the crowd,” she says. Whether she leans more on her 12-string guitar or piano, she ensures that each performance is uniquely tailored to the audience’s energy.

With a father in the Hockey Hall of Fame and a brother like Neil Young, Astrid’s life was steeped in creativity and music from an early age. Despite their different approaches to music, Astrid and Neil share a deep understanding and mutual respect. “We understand each other, and I think we think the same way about most things,” she reflects.

While she’s had opportunities to join other bands, Astrid has always preferred to carve out her own niche. “I like doing my own thing,” she asserts. Her autonomy in the music world has allowed her to create and perform music that truly reflects her unique vision.

Currently, Astrid is promoting a vinyl edition of her last record, “One Night at Giant Rock,” with some tracks gaining traction on Florida radio. She’s also excited about a new record she made with Eddie Kramer, set to release later this year.

As the show approaches, Astrid invites everyone to come and experience the magic. “Come and see the show,” she urges, promising an unforgettable evening of music and stories.

With her deep musical heritage and unwavering dedication to her craft, Astrid Young continues to captivate audiences, blending the past and present into performances that resonate across generations. For more information on her tour dates and music, visit Astrid Young’s official site.

Astrid will perform as part of “OUR HOUSE: The Music of CSNY” on July 20 at 8 p.m. in Ft. Lauderdale’s The Parker. The historic lineup features:

• James Raymond (son of David Crosby)
• Astrid Young (sister of Neil Young)
• Steve Postell (guitarist & musical director with David Crosby & The Immediate Family)
• Berry Duane Oakley (guitar & vocals, Allman Betts Band, Live Dead & Brothers)
• Jeff Pevar (lead guitar David Crosby, Graham Nash, CSN, Phil Lesh)
• Steve DiStanislao (drums David Crosby, David Gilmour)
• Michelle Wills (keyboards David Crosby)
• Elijah Thomson (bass Father John Misty)