“My Family Is The Most Important Thing in My Life”: Lukas Nelson Pulls Out of Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion After Dad Requests Farm Aid Participation

Lukas Nelson will no longer participate in the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, which will occur on September 19 through 21 in Bristol, Tenn. and Va. Lukas Nelson cites a family commitment, his dad, Willie Nelson’s, request for his son’s presence at the annual Farm Aid gathering, happening on September 20, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minn. 

In a shared post on social media, the musician, who released his latest full-length entry, American Romance, in June, explained the circumstances of the schedule shift. Lukas Nelson began his statement: “As most of you know, my family is the most important thing in my life. Recently, my father expressed that he would like me with him at Farm Aid this year.”

He continued, “Unfortunately, it falls on the same day as the Rhythm and Roots Festival in Bristol, TN, which leads me to have to cancel my scheduled appearance there. When I confirmed this appearance, the final date for Farm Aid had not yet been set. I hope everyone will understand my decision here.

“I have been struggling with it for weeks since Farm Aid was announced. I feel strongly that being with my father and supporting my family is where I need to be. I will make it up to the folks in Bristol in every way I can,” Lukas Nelson said. 

Farm Aid originated in 1985 at the helm of Willie Nelson, Neil Young, and John Mellencamp, who used their dynastic pull to drive a crowd and raise awareness about the loss of family farms. To support those who feed the masses and keep America’s agricultural system buoyant, the trio developed the concept for an annual event that provides financial benefits and gives back to the family farmer. 

The 40th anniversary event at the Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis will feature musical entertainment from the elder Nelson, Young, Mellencamp, Dave Matthews, Margo Price, Billy Strings, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Wynonna Judd, Kenny Chesney, Steve Earle, Trampled by Turtles, Waxahatchee, Black Pumas’ Eric Burton, Jesse Welles, and Madaline Edwards.

Historically, Farm Aid has been known to make a musical impression with long-lasting effects for fans seeking something outside the regular concert expectations. Examples include the Grateful Dead’s 1987 performance via satellite feed and, more recently, Bob Dylan’s second-ever appearance at the event, which doubled as a surprise 2023 set supported by members of the Heartbreakers.  

Notably, in 2024, Lukas Nelson teamed up with The Travelin’ McCourys for a collaborative performance. His participation in the forthcoming event adds another chapter to the Nelson family’s longstanding commitment to Farm Aid.