Although Bruce Springsteen has long used his platform to speak openly about national issues, his latest tour is reportedly being met with escalating threats.
When Springsteen and the E Street Band launched their “Land of Hope and Dreams American” tour in Minneapolis, they made it clear it would carry a strong political message, focusing on the current state of the country.
However, as the tour progressed, the band reportedly began facing threats that have now forced them to take serious precautions.
Bruce Springsteen And Band Increase Security Because Of Trump Supporters
Each stop on Springsteen and his group’s tour has reportedly brought its own complications, and with several cities still left on the schedule, their concerns are far from over.
Guitarist Stevie Van Zandt has now revealed that extra precautions are being taken to keep everyone safe, explaining that the group’s strong messaging has made them a target for some supporters of Donald Trump.
“This tour has been a little bit different because of the high security.” Van Zandt told the Daily Mail. “It’s a very specific political theme to this tour, and there’s been a lot of threats, death threats. Usually, there’s always some, but this time it’s been increasing.”
He continued, “The band, Bruce, we’ve had to beef up security and, you know, it’s mostly just talk.” Van Zandt emphasized that the band is not pushing lies or controversies, but the fact that their message is explicitly political has drawn scrutiny.
He noted that agencies like the FBI have been monitoring the situation closely, and the band has responded by going “the extra mile” to ensure fans feel safe at shows.
Bruce Springsteen Paused His Criticism Of Trump To Offer Prayers Instead
Despite the heightened tensions surrounding the tour, not all of their concerts have centered on criticism of Trump. During a performance in Texas last month, the “Born to Run” singer shifted to a message of unity following the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
As The Blast reported, the 76-year-old opened his set with a prayer for U.S. service members overseas, before extending it to a gratitude prayer for Trump and others in attendance.
“We also send out a prayer of thanks that our President, nor anyone in the administration, nor anyone attending, was injured at last night’s incident at the Press Correspondents’ Dinner,” Springsteen said.
The Grammy-winning artist then told his audience that disagreement must never cross into violence, adding that criticism is part of democracy. Online reaction to his performance was divided. Some praised the sentiment, while others accused him of “hypocrisy.”
Springsteen Previously Shared He Was Ready For The Possible Backlash From Fans
Long before the mixed reaction from fans about Springsteen’s performance, he had made it clear he was ready for the potential outcome from being vocal about his views.
In an interview back in March, “The Rising” singer doubled down on his stance and dismissed concerns about losing part of his audience because of it. “I don’t worry about it,” he said at that time, according to The Blast.
“My job is very simple: I do what I want to do, I say what I want to say, and then people get to say what they want to say about it. Those are the rules of my game. That’s fine with me.”
He explained that he understood the cultural role his band occupies and “blowback” is simply part of the process, which he is “ready for all-that.”
Springsteen’s Outspokenness Earned Him ‘Dumb’ Title From Trump
As part of his activism, Springsteen released the song “Streets of Minneapolis” earlier this year, condemning the killings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good.
While the track was praised by many fans, a spokesperson for the White House dismissed it as containing “irrelevant opinions and inaccurate information,” according to The Blast.
In addition to the White House’s hostility, the U.S. leader himself has been openly critical of Springsteen. On his Truth Social platform last year, Trump launched into a lengthy tirade, calling the musician “highly overrated” and “dumb as a rock.”
Rod Stewart Took A Dig At Trump In King Charles’ Presence
Springsteen isn’t the only music icon who openly attacks Trump. Fellow rock icon Rod Stewart recently seemed to mock the president during The King’s Trust 50th Anniversary Celebration at Royal Albert Hall.
Per The Blast, Stewart praised King Charles III for his recent U.S. state visit before seemingly aiming a subtle jab at Trump. “Well done in the Americas. You were superb. Absolutely superb,” Stewart said to the monarch.
He then added, “You put that little rat bag in his place,” a remark many interpreted as a swipe at Trump. Although King Charles did not visibly respond, laughter could be heard from people nearby, and the exchange quickly sparked debate online.