Star-Packed Autism Speaks Concert, 4-26-25 @ The Greek in Los Angeles [View all]

Last edited Fri May 2, 2025, 10:22 AM - Edit history (1)

It was the best of concerts, it was the coldest of concerts! With temperatures in the high 40s, I was under dressed for a 4 hour star-studded telethon-like event for Autism Speaks. (To keep warm during the evening I climbed about 15 stair loops from the top to the bottom of the Greek!)

The music spanned a huge array of genres, and raised awareness and a lot of money for Autism Speaks. Two Martin Guitars and artwork were auctioned off, which reminded everyone that this was a fund raiser for a nonprofit organization which is celebrating 20 years! In addition to the star-packed performances there were also appearances by exceptionally talented musicians on the spectrum, such as Abby Romeo, and the Spectrum Bluegrass Band. Christina Applegate also made an appearance despite her battle with multiple sclerosis. I enjoyed Linda Perry (4 Non Blondes - “What's Up”) who was true to her “roots” and showed the crowd that her talent needs to be recognized for more than just that one song!

Hosted by Stephen Stills and his wife, Kristen, this was the 7th Autism Speaks concert and had guest appearances from Billy Idol, Cat Power, keyboardist Benmont Tench (whom I last saw playing with Joe Henry), and Rufus Wainwright. Other performers included Nathaniel Rateliff, Chris Stills, Oliver Stills, and maybe one or two I’ve neglected to mention. The evening’s MC was Ken Jeong, whose self-deprecating humor kept the empty spaces from getting boring.

The evening’s climax lasted about 45 minutes and started when Neil Young joined the stage with Stills to play “For What It’s Worth” and “Rockin’ in the Free World”. Young rocked on with at least a half hour set and played songs off his upcoming album.

Below you'll find more detailed reviews of the show:

https://bestclassicbands.com/stephen-stills-neil-young-light-up-the-blues-2025-4-27-25/

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/neil-young-jam-stephen-stills-light-up-the-blues-1235326038/