Farm Aid 1985: The Historic Concert Supporting Family Farmers
The first-ever Farm Aid concert made history on Sunday, September 22, 1985, bringing together legendary musicians and thousands of fans in support of America’s family farmers. Held at Memorial Stadium on the University of Illinois campus in Champaign, Illinois, this monumental 12-hour event aimed to raise awareness and funds for the challenges facing family farmers.
According to the official Farm Aid website, the organization’s mission is clear:
"To keep family farmers on their land. Family farmers are our only guarantee for fresh, local food. Our goal is to bring together family farmers and citizens to restore family farm-centered agriculture. Family farmers ensure safe, healthful food, protect natural resources, and strengthen local economies."
An Unforgettable Lineup
The Farm Aid 1985 lineup was as diverse as it was iconic, featuring performances from founding artists Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, and Neil Young. Other legendary acts included Waylon Jennings, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, and many more. Attendees were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime experience with music spanning genres, all united under one cause.
Among the standout performances, seeing Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, John Mellencamp, and Neil Young was unforgettable. Each artist brought their unique energy to the stage, creating an electric atmosphere that remains unmatched to this day.
A Lasting Legacy
Farm Aid 1985 not only succeeded in raising awareness for family farmers but also laid the foundation for an ongoing movement. Today, Farm Aid continues its mission, hosting concerts annually and advocating for sustainable agriculture practices.
Farm Aid 1985 Lineup:
- Alabama
- John Anderson
- Beach Boys
- The Blasters
- Bon Jovi
- Jimmy Buffett
- Glen Campbell
- Johnny Cash
- David Allan Coe
- John Conlee
- Ry Cooder
- Lacy J. Dalton
- Charlie Daniels
- John Denver
- Bob Dylan
- John Fogerty
- Foreigner
- Vince Gill
- Merle Haggard & the Strangers
- Sammy Hagar
- Daryl Hall
- Don Henley
- Waylon Jennings
- Billy Joel
- George Jones
- Rickie Lee Jones
- B.B. King
- Carole King
- Robbie Krieger
- Kris Kristofferson
- Lone Justice
- Lorreta Lynn
- Delbert McClinton
- John Mellencamp
- Roger Miller
- Joni Mitchell
- Willie Nelson and Family
- Randy Newman
- Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
- Roy Orbison
- Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers
- Bonnie Raitt
- Lou Reed
- Kenny Rogers
- Johnny Rodriguez
- John Schneider
- Bryan Setzer
- Southern Pacific
- Tanya Tucker
- Eddie VanHallen
- Dottie West
- Winter Brothers
- X
- Neil Young & International Harvesters