Farm Aid 2019 to help farmers impacted by ‘harmful farm and trade policies'

EAST TROY, Wisc. — The iconic Farm Aid concert series has come a long way since it first started in 1985 as a means to help ailing farmers keep their land. But during an economic downturn but conditions this year are similar for farmers in some ways.

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The 2019 concert is scheduled for Sept. 21 in East Troy, Wisconsin, and features a star-studded roster of musicians, too, but it comes amid weighty problems for farmers in the United States.

"With devastating weather, low prices and harmful farm and trade policies, America's family farmers are facing immense challenges to hold on to their farms. It's not right … family farmers are essential for all of us," Farm Aid President and founder Willie Nelson said on the group's website.

"By bringing our festival to the heart of the struggle, we will stand side by side with farmers. At Farm Aid 2019, we'll highlight solutions and show our support for family farmers' contributions to our health, economy and environment," Nelson said.

The initial Farm Aid 2019 lineup was just released and includes: Willie Nelson & Family, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds, Bonnie Raitt, Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Margo Price, Jamey Johnson, Tanya Tucker, Brothers Osborne, Yola and Particle Kid.

More artists are expected to be announced this summer.

The legendary benefit concert has raised $57 million to support programs for farmers, research expansion and to promote family farm produce.

Cox Media Group