Neil Young has never been the kind of artist who stays quiet when something bothers him. For decades, the legendary singer-songwriter has spoken openly about politics, social justice, and corporate power. Recently, Young once again made headlines after sharing strong opinions about major companies like Amazon, Apple, and Verizon — and explaining why he no longer wants to support them.
A few days ago, Young announced that he had called on fans to stop using Amazon products. He also confirmed that his music will not be available on Amazon’s platform as long as the company is owned by Jeff Bezos. According to Young, Bezos has links to the Trump administration, which he strongly opposes. Writing on his personal website, the Neil Young Archives, he admitted that this decision could hurt his record company in the short term. Still, he believes the message he is sending is more important than money.
Young made it clear that this was not an easy choice, but one he felt he had to make. He said his goal is to avoid supporting companies that, in his view, donate large amounts of money to political leaders or systems he strongly disagrees with. For Young, this is about standing by his values, even when it causes inconvenience or financial loss.
In a newer post on the same website, Young revealed that Amazon is not the only company he plans to walk away from. He said he no longer wants to give any money to Verizon or Apple either. This decision affects his everyday life, including something as simple as his phone. Young explained that he currently uses a Verizon flip phone, but is now looking into switching to another provider. He mentioned T-Mobile as a possible option, stating that he believes it does not support the Trump administration.
Young also addressed Apple, a company whose products he still uses. He admitted that he was writing his message on an Apple computer, but said he needs to rethink his relationship with the company. According to Young, Apple has supported what he calls “the regime,” and he does not want to contribute to that support through future purchases. While he has already paid for his current computer, he stated that he will not spend money on upgrades or new devices.
After speaking with his business manager, Young decided to keep using the computer he already owns, but only because the money has already been spent. He made it clear that he does not plan to give Apple any more of his money going forward. He even joked — somewhat seriously — that he would consider legal action if his computer stopped working simply because he refused to buy expensive upgrades.
In his post, Young also criticized Apple CEO Tim Cook, pointing out what he believes are close ties between Cook and the Trump administration. Young expressed frustration with what he sees as corporate leaders supporting powerful political figures to protect their own interests.
Toward the end of his message, Young admitted that this process has forced him to rethink many parts of his life and career. He questioned other companies as well, showing that this reassessment may not be over. For Young, this moment is about personal responsibility — choosing where his money goes and what it supports.
Young’s comments arrived around the same time as fellow musician Bruce Springsteen released a powerful new song criticizing the actions of U.S. authorities and the Trump administration. Together, these moments show that some artists are still using their voices — and their choices — to challenge systems they believe are wrong.
Whether people agree with Neil Young or not, his recent actions highlight how deeply he believes in standing by his principles. For him, music, money, and values are closely connected — and he is willing to accept the consequences of living by what he believes is right.