Jesse Colin Young, the legendary singer-songwriter known for his significant contributions to the music scene as the frontman of the Youngbloods, passed away at the age of 83. The news was confirmed on March 17, 2025, by his wife and manager, Connie Young, who shared her heartfelt sentiments about the loss of her husband. It is with deep sadness she stated, "It is with deep sadness we announce music legend Jesse Colin Young, who left a unique mark on the intersecting worlds of folk, blues, jazz, country, and rock & roll, died at his home in Aiken, South Carolina yesterday afternoon." Young died on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at his residence, but no cause of death was disclosed.
Young was perhaps best known as the voice behind the Youngbloods' globally recognized anthem, "Get Together," which became synonymous with the ideals of the Woodstock generation. Notably, this heartfelt song reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 following its re-release in 1969, capturing the essence of solidarity and peace during the tumultuous 1960s. More than just lyrics, the chorus sung by Young, "Come on people now/Smile on your brother/Everybody get together/Try to love one another right now," became one of the most enduring refrains of the era, epitomizing the hopes and aspirations of the counterculture movement.
The story of Young's iconic song began long before it became popular; he did not write "Get Together." The song was crafted by Chet Powers, under the pseudonym Dino Valenti, but it was Young's soulful delivery and artistry which helped make it emblematic of the time. Reflecting on how he discovered the song, Young once recalled the serendipitous moment: “I went down the second flight of stairs and there was Buzzy Linhart and he was singing ‘Get Together,’ and just like in those movies about the Bible, the heavens opened and my life changed.” His passion for the song led him to immediately learn it and incorporate it with the Youngbloods.
Throughout his musical career, Young blended various genres including folk, rock, blues, and jazz, often featuring socially conscious themes. Following the breakup of the Youngbloods in the early 1970s, he transitioned smoothly to a solo career, releasing significant albums like 1972's "Together" and 1973's acclaimed "Song for Juli." His work addressed numerous themes and issues reflective of his upbringing and experiences, intertwining the beauty of nature with human emotion and social commentary.
Despite facing significant health challenges, including being diagnosed with chronic Lyme disease, Young's love for music never wavered. He faced these struggles head-on, even contemplating retirement from music altogether around 2010. Young, who stated, “I really had no intention of going back; I was just burned out on it,” found renewed purpose after watching his son Tristan perform during his own graduation from the Berklee College of Music. The artist noted, “These young people he had assembled... blew me away with their energy and their talent. I want to play music with young people like this.”
His commitment to music remained steadfast, with his last album, "Dreamers," being released in 2019. Throughout his life, Young maintained an active presence, recently appearing at L.A.’s Grammy Museum as recently as October 2023. His contributions to music and culture remain influential; he recorded multiple albums and participated actively within the musical community, pushing for social change and connecting deeply with audiences through his art.
Young’s musical artistry allowed him to connect with listeners on many levels. Songs like "Darkness, Darkness," which was later covered by Robert Plant, showcased his ability to translate personal struggles and broader societal themes through his music. The lyrics of his compositions often reflected the strong bond he felt with nature and the experiences of life itself. "Love of the natural world is as much a theme in my music as romantic love," he once famously articulated. Young's serene approach to music reinforced his image not solely as a performer but also as an artist committed to the message he conveyed.
Young’s influence extended far beyond his songs; he was noted for his artistic range, which included being a musician, producer, podcast host, and outspoken social/environmental activist throughout his life. His dedication to meaningful causes was evident, as he continued to support the Get Together Foundation, encouraging positive community change. His philanthropic efforts, facilitated through various charity concerts and performances over the years, reflect his commitment to making the world a place for unity and support.
Jesse Colin Young leaves behind not just his wife, Connie, but also his children, Tristan and Jazzie Young, along with two children from his first marriage, Juli and Cheyenne Young. His legacy is one of creativity, resilience, and hope, illustrating the power of music to inspire reality. Young has established himself as more than just another musician—he has become emblematic of the ethos of the 1960s and 1970s, capturing the hearts of countless individuals searching for love and light through times of uncertainty. His call to "get together" resonates as strongly today as it did over fifty years ago, ensuring his message of unity and love endures long after his passing.
Jesse Colin Young's contributions to music, his storytelling capabilities, and his advocacy for love and unity have left indelible marks on America’s cultural and artistic landscapes. He will be truly missed.
