Farewell to the legendary Jesse Colin Young, frontman of the Youngbloods, who has died at the age of 83

Jesse Colin Young, the soulful voice behind the 1960s anthem Get Together passed away on March 16, 2025, at his home in Aiken, South Carolina, at the age of 83. Born Perry Miller in Queens, New York, in 1941, Young’s journey from a solo folk artist to the frontman of the Youngbloods left an indelible mark on American music.

The Young in the Youngbloods

In the mid-1960s, Young co-founded the Youngbloods, a band that seamlessly blended folk, blues, jazz, and rock. Their 1967 rendition of Get Together became emblematic of the era’s peace and love movement, especially after its re-release in 1969, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard chart. The song’s message of unity resonated deeply during a time of social upheaval, something we may be needing once again.

For those wishing to revisit Young’s impactful music, here’s a notable performance of Get Together featuring Steve Miller:​

Jesse after Youngbloods

When the Youngbloods disbanded in 1972, Jesse didn’t slow down... he reinvented himself. Over the next five decades, the singer-songwriter carved out a remarkable solo career, releasing more than 15 albums and leaving an indelible mark on the music world. His 1975 album Songbird became a standout, peaking at No. 26 on the Billboard 200 and solidifying his place as a solo artist to watch.

But Young’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. In 2012, he was diagnosed with Lyme disease, a condition that could have sidelined many artists. Yet, his passion for music never wavered. He continued to perform, record, and connect with audiences, releasing his final album, Highway Troubadour, in 2020. Talk about longevity.

Young’s legacy extends far beyond his music. A lifelong advocate for peace and unity, he used his platform to inspire and uplift. His songs often carried messages of hope and connection, resonating with fans around the world. Even as his health challenges mounted, Young remained a beacon of positivity.

Jesse Colin Young: a family man

Young is survived by his wife and manager, Connie Darden-Young, who stood by his side through the highs and lows of his career. Together, they raised two children, Tristan and Jazzie. Young also leaves behind two children from his first marriage, Juli and Cheyenne, who will carry forward his legacy of love, music, and advocacy.

RIP Jesse.

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