Bruce Springsteen launched his 2026 Land of Hope and Dreams tour in Minneapolis Tuesday night with a blistering critique of the Trump administration and a debut performance of his protest song, “Streets of Minneapolis,” dedicated to Alex Pretti and Renee Good, two local citizens killed by ICE agents.
The concert, described as “nearly equal parts anti-Trump rally and concert” by Rolling Stone and Billboard, opened with a rendition of Edwin Starr’s “War” – the first time Springsteen has performed the song live since 2003. Before the song, Springsteen delivered a pointed condemnation of the current White House, stating, “This White House is destroying the American idea and our reputation around the world.” He continued, characterizing the U.S. Under the current administration as “America the reckless, unpredictable, predatory rogue nation.”
The setlist blended politically charged songs like “American Skin (41 Shots)” with Springsteen’s classic hits, including “Darkness on the Edge of Town,” “The Promised Land,” and “Hungry Heart.” A solo acoustic performance of “House of a Thousand Guitars” and a show-closing cover of Bob Dylan’s “Chimes of Freedom” rounded out the evening.
Adding to the evening’s political weight, guitarist Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine joined Springsteen and the E Street Band for 11 of the 27 songs performed. The collaboration included a cover of Prince’s “Purple Rain,” dedicated to the late Minneapolis icon as “the maestro,” marking the first time Springsteen has performed the song in a decade.
Springsteen addressed the crowd directly, acknowledging feelings of frustration and anger. “If you’re feeling helpless, hopeless, betrayed, frustrated, angry, I know,” he said. “That’s why the E Street Band is here tonight… We’re here tonight as we demand to feel your hope and your strength, and we want to bring some hope and some strength for you.”
What’s the significance of “Streets of Minneapolis”?
“Streets of Minneapolis” is a protest song written by Springsteen in response to the deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good. He first publicly performed the song at a “Defend Minnesota” benefit concert in January 2026, and again at a “No Kings” rally in St. Paul just days before the tour’s opening night. The song’s inclusion in the full band setlist signals Springsteen’s commitment to using his platform to address issues of police brutality and immigration policy.
How does this tour fit into Springsteen’s broader political engagement?
Springsteen has a long history of political activism, but his criticism of the Trump administration has become increasingly vocal in recent years. This tour appears poised to continue that trend, offering a platform for the singer to express his opposition to current policies and rally support for his vision of America.
What’s next for the Land of Hope and Dreams tour?
The Land of Hope and Dreams tour is scheduled to continue through May 27, with a final performance in Washington, D.C. It remains to be seen whether Springsteen will continue to use his concerts as a platform for political commentary throughout the tour.
As Springsteen embarks on this tour, the question remains: how will his outspoken stance resonate with audiences across the country, and what impact will it have on the broader political landscape?
