On October 25, 2014, the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California, played host to a standout moment during the 28th Annual Bridge School Benefit Concert. Neil Young took the stage alongside the alt-country trio Puss n Boots—featuring Norah Jones, Sasha Dobson, and Catherine Popper—for a stirring acoustic rendition of his classic track “Down By The River.” The collaboration offered a hauntingly beautiful take on the song, captivating the crowd and underscoring the spirit of the event.
Organized by Neil and Pegi Young, the Bridge School Benefit is a long-running concert series dedicated to supporting children with severe physical disabilities and complex communication needs. Each year, it brings together an eclectic mix of artists for acoustic performances in a celebration of music and purpose.
Originally released in 1969 on Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere, “Down By The River” has long been revered for its brooding lyrics and sprawling guitar solos. While the song has been reinterpreted many times over the decades, this performance stood out for its intimacy and emotional resonance. Stripped of its electric bombast, the version delivered at the benefit leaned into the song’s raw lyrical weight, with Young’s distinctive voice blending seamlessly with the lush harmonies of Puss n Boots.
Interestingly, Puss n Boots had already put their stamp on the song earlier that year, including a live version on their debut album No Fools, No Fun, released in July 2014. But performing it live alongside its creator gave the piece added depth and authenticity—uniting generations of musicians in a moment that felt both timeless and new.
The Bridge School Benefit is known for moments like these—rare collaborations, unexpected duets, and acoustic reinterpretations that bring familiar songs into a fresh light. In 2014, the Neil Young and Puss n Boots duet on “Down By The River” was one of those magic moments, a highlight of an evening built on compassion, artistry, and the power of music to bring people together.
