A music legend has a gift for the people of Greenland.
Rocker Neil Young announced this week that he is providing free access to his entire music catalog to residents of the massive, icy island amid tensions between the U.S, and NATO over its future.
President Donald Trump wants to acquire Greenland, which he views as vital for the defense of the U.S. mainland.
Denmark, which has control of the semiautonomous territory, has so far refused Trump’s efforts.
“I hope my music and music films will ease some of the unwarranted stress and threats you are experiencing from our unpopular and hopefully temporary government,” Young wrote. “It is my sincere wish for you to be able to enjoy all of my music in your beautiful Greenland home, in its highest quality. This is an offer of Peace and Love. All the music I have made during the last 62 years is yours to hear.”
The offer is for a year, although Young indicated renewing is possible. Young, 80, is known for emotionally raw music, distinctive high vocals and blending of gentle folk songs and loud, gritty rock. Personal reflection and social and political themes have been part of his music for decades.
Young is known for songs like “Rockin’ in the Free World” and “Heart of Gold.” The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted him twice: In 1995 as a solo artist and in 1997 as a member of Buffalo Springfield.
He has been a vocal critic of Trump and his allies, notably denying Amazon Music use of his catalog. Young cited Jeff Bezos support of Trump as the reason. Young has also left most social media platforms for similar reasons.
“Amazon is owned by Jeff Bezos, a billionaire backer of the president,” Young wrote last week. “The president’s international policies and his support of ICE make it impossible for me to ignore his actions. If you feel as I do, I strongly recommend that you do not use Amazon.”