MJ Lenderman Covers Neil Young Classics

From "Powderfinger" to "On the Beach", the indie rocker pays tribute to his musical hero

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

MJ Lenderman, the guitarist for the band Wednesday, has become known for his frequent covers of Neil Young songs during live performances. From "Lotta Love" to "Powderfinger" to deep cuts off albums like "On the Beach" and the recently released "Homegrown", Lenderman has shown his deep appreciation for Young's iconic catalog.

Why it matters

Lenderman's Neil Young covers highlight the continued influence and reverence the legendary singer-songwriter holds, even among younger indie rock artists. By interpreting these classic songs, Lenderman is introducing them to new generations of listeners and keeping the spirit of Young's music alive.

The details

Lenderman began covering Young's songs like "Lotta Love" and "Powderfinger" during his European tour in 2024, and has since performed them dozens of times. He's also tackled deeper cuts from albums like "On the Beach" and the recently unearthed "Homegrown", delivering raw, emotional renditions that capture the essence of Young's songwriting. Lenderman's covers often feature support from his Wednesday bandmates, echoing the way Young collaborated with Crazy Horse.

  • Lenderman began covering "Lotta Love" while on tour in Europe in the fall of 2024.
  • Lenderman performed "Powderfinger" seven times, most recently in January 2025 at Cat's Cradle in Carrboro, North Carolina.
  • Lenderman covered the title track from Young's "On the Beach" album in October 2022 at the Zootown Arts Community Center in Missoula, Montana.
  • Lenderman delivered a rare performance of Young's "Separate Ways" from the "Homegrown" album on February 11, 2025 at the 40 Watt Club in Athens, Georgia.

The players

MJ Lenderman

The guitarist for the indie rock band Wednesday, who has become known for his frequent covers of Neil Young songs during live performances.

Neil Young

The legendary singer-songwriter whose iconic catalog of music has continued to influence and inspire younger artists like Lenderman.

Nicolette Larson

The singer who achieved a hit with her version of Young's song "Lotta Love" in 1978.

Frank "Poncho" Sampedro

The guitarist for Young's longtime band Crazy Horse, who provided backing vocals similar to Lenderman's bandmates.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I grew up believing that every band that I like somehow is influenced by Neil Young. He's my number one.”

— MJ Lenderman (Rolling Stone)

“She was absolutely fearless. She told me, 'I'm the best one. I can follow you anywhere you want to go. No one can follow you better than I can.' And she could.”

— Neil Young (Rolling Stone)

What’s next

Lenderman is expected to continue covering more Neil Young songs during his live shows, potentially delving even deeper into the legendary artist's vast catalog.

The takeaway

MJ Lenderman's Neil Young covers demonstrate the enduring influence and reverence the iconic singer-songwriter commands, even among younger indie rock artists. By interpreting these classic songs, Lenderman is introducing them to new generations of listeners and keeping the spirit of Young's music alive.