John Mellencamp – Rain on the Scarecrow (Live at Farm Aid 2016)

John Mellencamp performs Rain on the Scarecrow at Farm Aid 2016 at Jiffy Lube Live in Bristow, Virginia, on September 17.

Farm Aid was started by Willie Nelson, Neil Young and John Mellencamp in 1985 to keep family farmers on the land and has worked since then to make sure everyone has access to good food from family farmers. Dave Matthews joined Farm Aid's board of directors in 2001.

Farm Aid's performances are donated by the artists in order to raise funds and raise awareness for family farmers. They've raised their voices to help — what can you do?

[chrispruitt]

John’s violinist (Miriam) is absolutely the BEST. She is excellent. Great job by a great band. You guys are all awesome.

[peggyfleener]

John Mellencamp How about re releasing this song back out, to the public in 2023?

[asdAsd]

nothing wrong with that song, his band, or himself. John Mellencamp writes music with his heart.

[randonwatson]

Somehow I made it to my 30s before I ever really listened to this song. Damn does it hit home, seeing how our farm ceased operation in 2004 after many many decades. RIP Grandaddy, LJ Watson Farms, Atmore, AL.

[bigalturk]

Excellent guest violinist and Guitarist!

[Hextraordinary]

I was 12 when this album came out. I was raised on music with lyrics that had *meaning* & lived in the middle of nowhere in Cornfield County USA as a kid. This song is so powerful -- so visceral in its imagery, you cannot help but be affected by its raw power & pain.

[brianfoster]

at about 3:45 of this video. ... what is that that Dane is playing with his right hand? Anyone know. - thanks

[littlebitobi]

Shame that rockers have to age, I suppose it's better than the alternative, but he can rock for an old guy.

[marksoi]

Live version has a Gimme Shelter vibe .. good thing

[danielemantovani]

John; crompete na Fender come tutti che altri e fa manco el figo.

[danielemantovani]

Brava a vionista, eh!!! Però a me pare na impiegata dea Prefettura de Cuneo.

[william]

Dam..Johnny got old fast!  Plus is he chewing gum?  It is screwing up his singing.

[LDXReal]

This song shows that Farmers deserve much more respect and support than they receive, in 2020 this still rings true. We've got to bring back support for family farms, because families lead a legacy and hold us all together. Thanks JCM for opening my eyes with this song.

[michelle]

PROUD TO BE A FARMERS DAUGHTER plus 5 gen! of family all farmers dairy!

[Danonym]

Great video and sound quality - awesome Band, the violonist exceptional.

[kimmorepo]

As a fan from the eighties, I raise my hat again. These power rock songs from the countryside always fascinate me. As a small farm son myself, this really gets under my skin.

That violin and accordion they had in the 80s.. Mr Snare, Kenny Aronoff back then.. Oh boy. This drummer is great, too!

With lots of love from Finland! Never lose hope. Things will get better!

[emilywilliamsmiller]

This song has become more meaningful for me over the years. Last time I heard it live, I was brought to tears. 35 years of following John and his band, and I never am disappointed at a show. A true artist, storyteller and musician. See you soon in Des Moines and Minneapolis!

[Ginnyvapes]

Awesome version. Love the guitar change & Miriam is a female beast on the violin. I'm so sad for our crops this year. 2019 thanks for trying so hard John! 😞

[lsneutronstar]

When I get to that age I'd like to have the energy and talent as the lady playing the violin. My respect!!!

[jimaiello]

As was mentioned before, Miriam Sturm is a beast on the violin. She plays it with a lot of attitude, and proves violins are for more than just stodgy orchestra music.