SB.. At age 83, a legendary singer and songwriter from the 1960s passed away

Jesse Colin Young, the influential singer, songwriter, and founding member of the folk-rock band The Youngbloods, passed away at the age of 83 at his home in Aiken, South Carolina. His family confirmed the news through a public statement on Sunday, March 16, 2025.

With a music career that spanned over six decades, Young became widely known for his role in shaping the folk-rock sound of the 1960s and 1970s. His distinctive voice and timeless messages of peace, unity, and environmental consciousness left an enduring mark on American music and culture.

From Perry Miller to Jesse Colin Young

Born Perry Miller on November 22, 1941, in Queens, New York, Jesse Colin Young was raised in a musical family. He studied classical music and began playing guitar as a teenager. He later attended Phillips Academy in Massachusetts and briefly enrolled at Ohio State University, but ultimately left college to pursue a full-time career in music.

In the early 1960s, Young emerged as a promising solo folk artist, releasing albums such as The Soul of a City Boy (1964) and Young Blood (1965). These recordings showcased his raw vocal style and early affinity for blending folk, blues, and jazz influences.

The Youngbloods and “Get Together”

In 1965, Young co-founded The Youngbloods alongside Jerry Corbitt, Joe Bauer, and Lowell “Banana” Levinger. The group would go on to become one of the most recognizable names in American folk-rock, particularly after the release of their breakout hit “Get Together.”

Originally released in 1967, Get Together called for peace and brotherhood during one of the most turbulent periods in American history. Though it had moderate success upon initial release, the song surged to national prominence in 1969 after being re-released in response to a television campaign by the National Conference of Christians and Jews. It became a cultural anthem and reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The Youngbloods’ 1969 album Elephant Mountain is widely regarded as a high point in their discography. It featured more introspective songwriting and marked the beginning of Young’s transition toward solo work. By 1972, Young had officially embarked on his solo career, where he would further refine his unique sound.

A Prolific Solo Career and Advocacy

Young’s solo work showcased a thoughtful blend of folk, jazz, blues, and rock, often accompanied by socially conscious themes. Albums like Song for Juli (1973), Light Shine (1974), and On the Road (1976) received critical acclaim and expanded his fan base.

Song for Juli, considered by many to be his finest solo effort, was inspired by his daughter and became his most commercially successful album, staying on the Billboard charts for nearly a year.

In addition to his music, Young became an outspoken advocate for environmental issues and social justice. He often used his platform to raise awareness about conservation, renewable energy, and mental health. His commitment to these causes was evident in both his lyrics and his personal lifestyle, including his decision to live sustainably in the hills of Northern California during the 1970s and 1980s.

Personal Challenges and Resilience

In the 1980s, Young faced significant personal and health challenges, including a diagnosis of chronic Lyme disease. This condition impacted his ability to tour and perform regularly, leading to periods of relative quiet in his career. Despite these obstacles, he remained active in music and continued to produce new material, often reflecting on themes of endurance, healing, and hope.

In 2019, Young released Dreamers, an album that returned to his roots while addressing contemporary issues. It was praised by critics for its heartfelt storytelling and relevance in an increasingly polarized world. According to Rolling Stone, Dreamers was “a reminder of the quiet power that folk music can hold.”

Later Years and Lasting Legacy

Jesse Colin Young continued to perform well into his later years, often accompanied by his children, who share his passion for music. His son Tristan Young, a bassist, frequently joined him on stage in his final tours.

In interviews, Young expressed gratitude for the enduring impact of Get Together and for the generations of fans who connected with his work. He was especially proud that his music continued to inspire messages of unity, compassion, and social awareness.

Young’s musical contributions have been recognized by institutions like the Smithsonian Folkways Recordings and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Archives, where The Youngbloods are featured as part of the broader folk-rock movement that shaped 1960s America.

Tributes from Across the Music World

Following the announcement of his passing, tributes poured in from fellow musicians, music historians, and fans around the world. Prominent artists and groups cited Young’s influence on the folk-rock genre and his ability to write music that transcended political and generational divides.

Folk artist Joan Baez noted on social media, “Jesse’s voice helped define a generation. His call for unity in ‘Get Together’ still resonates as much today as it did decades ago.”

Conclusion: A Timeless Voice for Peace and Connection

Jesse Colin Young leaves behind a legacy rooted in music, activism, and authenticity. From his early days as a solo folk artist to his rise with The Youngbloods and his long solo career, he remained committed to using music as a tool for personal expression and public connection.

His contributions to American music—especially during times of social change—will continue to inspire generations to come. As his most famous lyrics implore: “Come on people now, smile on your brother / Everybody get together / Try to love one another right now.”

Sources: