Bruce Springsteen Covers The Clash at LA Show

Boss breaks out 'Clampdown' for the first time in over a decade with Tom Morello

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:30pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of crumpled, glittering sequins in high-contrast studio lighting, evoking the glitz and energy of a rock concert.The vibrant energy of Bruce Springsteen's surprise cover of a Clash classic electrified his Los Angeles audience.Inglewood Today

Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band performed at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California on Tuesday night, where they surprised fans by covering The Clash's 'Clampdown' - a song they haven't played live in over 10 years. Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello joined Springsteen on vocals for the cover.

Why it matters

Springsteen is known for mixing up his setlists and occasionally dusting off deep cuts and covers, keeping his shows fresh for longtime fans. The inclusion of 'Clampdown' was an unexpected treat, as the band hasn't performed the Clash classic since 2014.

The details

Fan-shot footage posted online shows Springsteen and the E Street Band launching into 'Clampdown' during the show. Morello, who has collaborated with Springsteen in the past, traded off vocals with The Boss on the punk rock anthem. According to setlist.fm, the last time Springsteen performed the cover was in 2014 during his High Hopes Tour, when Morello filled in for guitarist Stevie Van Zandt.

  • The concert took place on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
  • Springsteen and the E Street Band last played 'Clampdown' in 2014 during the High Hopes Tour.

The players

Bruce Springsteen

An American singer-songwriter who is one of the most acclaimed and influential rock musicians of all time, known for his poetic, working-class-themed lyrics and high-energy stage performances.

Tom Morello

An American musician best known as the guitarist for the band Rage Against the Machine, who has collaborated with Springsteen in the past.

The E Street Band

Springsteen's long-time backing band, known for their dynamic live performances and contributions to many of Springsteen's most iconic albums.

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What’s next

Springsteen and The E Street Band will return to The Forum in Los Angeles for a second show on Thursday, April 9, 2026 as part of their ongoing Land of Hope and Dreams American Tour, which runs through May 27 in Washington, D.C.

The takeaway

Springsteen's surprise cover of The Clash's 'Clampdown' during his Los Angeles show demonstrates his continued ability to keep his live performances fresh and exciting for longtime fans, even after decades of touring. The inclusion of Tom Morello on vocals added an extra layer of energy and nostalgia to the performance.