Recently Folk music veteran Neil Young was in the news over issues with Spotify which resulted in Young pulling his music from the platform. One of those songs was “Ohio” – a song about the murder of four students at Kent State University in 1970.
On May 4, in remembrance of that event, independent music artist Rachael Sage is releasing her version of “Ohio” with an official video. Filmed at the Carriage House in Connecticut; the video melds the memories of that tragic day and those of current events today.
Sage spoke on recording “Ohio” saying, , “Neil Young has always been among my favorite songwriters. For me, he epitomizes empathy and social consciousness through art and it was an honor a few years ago to record a version of his song ‘Helpless’ with the great Judy Collins. I’ve had this video – recorded live from Carriage House Studios – in the ‘vault’ for a while, but with everything going on in the Ukraine and the horrors of war and gun violence in America abounding, it felt like an apt time to share it. At its essence the song to me represents compassion and not turning a blind eye to suffering – something that can happen all too easily. We must never become numb to terror and violence, whatever the source. I’m grateful Neil Young continues to be a beacon reminding us of that ongoing.”
Sage is currently amidst a tour of the British Isles supporting Folk and Rockabilily singer Imelda May.
Speaking on the tour Sage said, “Imelda is everything I admire and strive to be in an artist: musically accomplished, heartfelt, an incredible singer, performer, writer, dynamic, eclectic, collaborative, and equally importantly she is extremely mindful, compassionate, inclusive and stands up for her beliefs. She is clearly a strong, courageous, adventurous artist who will not be defined by any one genre, one who continues to change and follow her muse wherever it leads. Touring with Imelda is an extremely inspiring experience.”
Rachael Sage tour dates:
May 5 at the Leisureland Theatre in Galway, Ireland
May 6 at the University Concert Hall in Limerick, Ireland
May 7 at the NEC Arena in Killarney, Ireland
May 9 & 10 at the Cork Opera House in Cork, Ireland
May 11 at the National Opera House in Wexford, Ireland
June 14 at the Bitter End for the NY Songwriters Circle Annual LGBT Fundraiser in New York City, NY
July 6 at The Troubadour in London, UK
Aug 10 at The Beford in London, UK
Aug 17 at The Green Note in London, UK
Aug 20 at the Midsomer Norton Cricket Club in Midsomer Norton, UK
Aug 27 at the Tucker’s Grave Cider Festival in Faulkland, UK
Aug 28 at Percy’s Café Bar in Whitchurch, UK
Oct 1 at Atomic Tom’s in Binghamton, NY