Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · June 24, 2025 · Entertainment

Neil Young's Glastonbury Standoff: BBC in Chaos Over Rock Legend’s Demands

Neil Young has reportedly thrown BBC bosses in chaos over his Glastonbury set as the rock legend made an unusual demand just days before his gig (pictured last month)

Glastonbury Frenzy: Neil Young's Shock Demand Rocks BBC Bosses Ahead of Star-Studded Saturday Night Headliner Show

Get ready for a Glastonbury storm! Legendary rockstar Neil Young, 79, has sent shockwaves through the festival circuit by making an unprecedented demand to BBC bosses just days before his highly anticipated headlining performance at the iconic Pyramid Stage. The news has left fans and festival organizers alike wondering what's behind this sudden bombshell.

As one of the biggest names on the Glastonbury roster alongside Sir Rod Stewart and Nile Rodgers, Neil Young's Saturday night show is shaping up to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for festival-goers. However, it seems that his team has been "wrangling" with BBC bosses over the terms of their live TV broadcast.

The singer, 79, is one of the biggest names to be performing at the festival in Somerset along with the likes of Sir Rod Stewart and Nile Rogers (the Pyramid Stage pictured where Neil is set to perform on Saturday)

According to insiders, Neil Young is being notoriously picky about how much of his set will be televised. It's rumored that he'll only allow a select few songs to be aired on TV, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what will make the cut. The question on everyone's lips is: Will it be a live broadcast or an edited highlights package?

The BBC has kept mum on the details, but a spokesperson did confirm that they're still finalizing their schedules and plans for the festival, hinting that Neil Young's set might not be included in the initial TV lineup. This news has sparked widespread speculation about what's behind the rockstar's reluctance to share his performance with the world.

Neil Young's drama-filled history with Glastonbury dates back to January when he initially turned down an offer to perform, citing concerns over the festival's corporate control by the BBC. However, after a New Year's Day statement revealing his change of heart, fans were thrilled to hear that he would be taking the stage once again.

Back in January, the rock star finally agreed to play at Glastonbury Festival after initially turning down the offer because it was 'under corporate control' of the BBC

But what's behind Neil Young's sudden demand? Is it a last-minute attempt to exert creative control or a desire to protect his artistic vision from the prying eyes of TV audiences?

Whatever the reason, one thing is certain: Glastonbury fans are in for a treat as Neil Young takes center stage on Saturday night. Will we get to see more than just a few songs on TV? Only time will tell.

Roman Kemp's Wild Warning to Glastonbury-Goers: "Paddling Pools Don't Go Well!"

Neil pictured on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury in 2009

As the countdown to Glastonbury begins, podcaster and One Show presenter Roman Kemp, 32, has issued a bizarre warning to festival-goers. The charismatic host of BBC Radio 1's Breakfast Show has shared his top five must-have items for the ultimate Glasto experience – but there's one thing he'd rather you didn't bring: a paddling pool!

Roman revealed that his essential items include a battery pack (or two), waterproof clothing, a fold-out chair, and a water bottle. But when it comes to what not to bring, the presenter had some stern words of caution: "I think any form of pool, especially paddling pools, shouldn't be anywhere near a festival because God knows what will end up in that water."

It seems Roman Kemp has witnessed his fair share of paddling pool mishaps at Glastonbury. His warning serves as a timely reminder to festival-goers to leave the inflatable fun at home and focus on the music.

He previously said: 'We were told the BBC was now a partner in Glastonbury and wanted us to do a lot of things in a way that we were not interested in'

As the big day approaches, fans are getting ready for an unforgettable experience at Worthy Farm in Somerset. With Neil Young headlining Saturday night's main stage, Roman Kemp's warnings, and rumors of secret sets and surprises abound, Glastonbury 2023 is shaping up to be one for the books!

**Stay tuned for more updates from The Scholarly Note (thescholarlynote.com) as we bring you all the latest news, gossip, and excitement from Glastonbury Festival!

Elsewhere, Roman Kemp has issued a bizarre warning to Glastonbury-goers 24 hours before Britain¿s biggest festival kicks off