Bruce Springsteen, Tom Morello Unite in Minneapolis Protest Against ICE

A powerful demonstration against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) unfolded on a Friday afternoon in Minneapolis. It was not just a concert. It was a gathering of solidarity and resistance, organized by musician Tom Morello at First Avenue, an iconic venue in the city.

Bruce Springsteen Joins Protest Against ICE

As the crowd filled the space, chants of “Fuck ICE” echoed through the venue. The concert, dedicated to the families of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, went beyond mere entertainment; it was part of a broader protest just blocks away. The mood intensified when Morello announced surprise guest Bruce Springsteen, who performed his recently released protest song, “Streets of Minneapolis.” This track specifically addresses the tragic deaths of Good and Pretti, who were killed by federal agents under the previous administration.

Springsteen’s Emotional Dedication

Springsteen took the stage, reflecting on the rapid creation of his song. He revealed that he recorded it the day after writing it and immediately sent it to Morello. “Nuance is wonderful, but sometimes, you have to kick them in the teeth,” Morello encouraged him. The singer dedicated his performance to the citizens of Minneapolis and the United States, reminding everyone of the ongoing struggles for justice.

Impactful Music and Messages

Springsteen’s solo acoustic rendition of his song was simple yet poignant. The performance focused on delivering a crucial message rather than entertainment value. As he sang the names of Pretti and Good, the crowd erupted in cheers. He rallied the audience to chant “ICE out now!” further amplifying the protest atmosphere.

Morello’s Fiery Performance

After Springsteen’s performance, Morello returned to the stage with his band. He and Springsteen collaborated on “The Ghost of Tom Joad,” a song they have performed together numerous times. Morello’s guitar solo included a message that read “arrest the president,” drawing enthusiastic responses from the audience.

• Tom Morello’s Setlist:
  • Killing in the Name
  • Soldier in the Army of Love
  • Hold the Line
  • One Man Revolution
  • Keep Going
  • Instrumental medley
  • Like a Stone
  • This Land is Your Land (with Rise Against, Al Di Meola, and Ike Reilly)
• Bruce Springsteen’s Setlist:
  • Streets of Minneapolis
  • The Ghost of Tom Joad (with Tom Morello)
  • Power to the People (with Tom Morello, Rise Against, Al Di Meola, and Ike Reilly)

The event concluded with a group performance of John Lennon’s “Power to the People,” leaving attendees inspired. Even after the concert, Morello joined the protest outside, demonstrating a clear commitment to the cause. The community’s response illustrated that the spirit of resistance remains strong, affirming the vital role these artists play in advocating for justice.