American-Chilean artist and singer-songwriter Marilyn Hucek has released her latest single, “Neil Young,” a deeply personal and emotional tribute to her father and a powerful statement in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.
Hucek shared the inspiration behind the song in a heartfelt social media post, explaining, “This one’s really close to my heart.” The idea for “Neil Young” came to her during a walk in Nashville when a poignant chorus struck her out of nowhere: “You might not remember me, but you remember Neil Young.” That single line would become the emotional core of a track that blends memory, music, and love into a beautiful message of remembrance.
Her father battled early-onset Alzheimer’s for several years. Like so many facing the disease, he gradually lost names, places, and eventually even the memory of his own daughter. But music—especially the songs of Neil Young—remained with him. That lasting connection sparked the creation of this song.
“Music stayed with him the longest,” Hucek said. “That’s what this song is about. It’s personal. And it’s my mission as an artist to use my voice to raise awareness for a disease that affects so many, yet is still not talked about enough.”
Bringing the song to life was a labor of love. Over the past year, Hucek collaborated with a team of talented songwriters and producers to make sure every note carried the weight and warmth of her experience. And with each live performance, she continues to hear stories from listeners who have faced similar journeys with Alzheimer’s in their families—reminding her just how universal and urgent this conversation really is.
“Neil Young“ isn’t just a song—it’s also a call to action. In a meaningful step forward, 5% of all streaming royalties will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association.
“Every time you stream, you’re helping make a difference,” she wrote. “Please share this song, tag a friend, or add it to your story to help spread the word. 💜 It takes a village.”
She first performed the unreleased song back in March for her ‘NPR Tiny Desk Contest‘ entry, where she wrote on her Instagram: “‘Neil Young’ is a heartfelt tribute to my late father, who battled early-onset Alzheimer’s. It’s currently unreleased, so this is the only place you’ll be able to hear it right now. If you’ve experienced Alzheimer’s or Dementia in any way, this song is for you.”
Marilyn also extended her gratitude to the Neil Young Archives for preserving the music that brought so much comfort to her father—and continues to inspire her today.
In “Neil Young,” Marilyn Hucek reminds us of music’s power to transcend memory loss, connect generations, and speak the words that can’t always be said. It’s a stirring tribute, a love letter to her father, and a rallying cry for awareness, empathy, and support.
Stream “Neil Young” now—and let the music make a difference.
