Bruce Springsteen and Tom Morello Rock Minneapolis: Setlist and Live Review
On a memorable afternoon in Minneapolis, Tom Morello headlined a concert that was much more than just a musical event. It served as a rallying point for community solidarity and resistance against ongoing injustices. The concert, held at the iconic First Avenue, gathered attendees united under the banner of defending Minnesota and supporting the families of victims of federal immigration actions.
Surprise Guest: Bruce Springsteen Joins the Stage
Anticipation peaked when Bruce Springsteen made a surprise appearance at the event. Springsteen had released his new protest song, “Streets of Minneapolis,” just two days prior. The song specifically addresses the tragic deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, who lost their lives due to federal immigration enforcement actions.
After a warm welcome from the crowd, Springsteen took a moment to discuss the rapid creation of his song. He mentioned sending the track to Morello shortly after recording it, reflecting on the urgency of the message. “Sometimes, you have to kick them in the teeth,” he quoted Morello’s enthusiastic reaction.
Performance Highlights
Springsteen’s performance of “Streets of Minneapolis” was raw and emotionally charged. The crowd responded powerfully as he sang the names of the victims, galvanizing the room into a chant of “ICE out now!” Solidarity was palpable in the air, and the audience responded with fervor.
- Setlist Highlights from Bruce Springsteen:
- “Streets of Minneapolis”
- “The Ghost of Tom Joad” (with Morello)
- “Power to the People” (with Morello and others)
Morello’s own performance was equally impactful, featuring a slew of union anthems and classic protest songs. He opened with strong rhetoric about the fight against immigration enforcement and the need for communal resistance. The energy in the room reached its peak as attendees passionately sang along to “Killing in the Name.”
A Concert for Resistance
This concert was not merely an artistic performance but a declaration of unity. Morello called on the audience to take action, emphasizing that “nobody is coming to save us except us.” The show fostered an environment where attendees could channel their frustrations regarding political issues into a shared experience.
- Setlist Highlights from Tom Morello:
- “Killing in the Name”
- “Soldier in the Army of Love”
- “This Land is Your Land” (with additional artists)
As the concert drew to a close, the musicians joined together for a spirited rendition of John Lennon’s “Power to the People,” celebrating the collective power of the community. The joy and fervor of the crowd underscored the undeniable spirit of resistance that defined the day.
Conclusion: A Day of Action and Unity
As the event concluded shortly after 2 p.m., Tom Morello and his fellow performers didn’t just leave the stage; they transitioned into action. Many joined a nearby protest, embodying the day’s themes of solidarity and resistance. This concert at First Avenue will surely be remembered as a pivotal moment in Minneapolis, showcasing the power of community and activism through music.
