Bruce Springsteen Releases Protest Song 'Streets of Minneapolis'

Lyric video features footage of recent events in the city.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Bruce Springsteen has dropped a new protest song called "Streets of Minneapolis" along with a lyric video that includes footage of recent events in the city, including ICE protests, clashes between federal agents and protesters, and memorials for two Minneapolis residents who were fatally shot by federal agents.

Why it matters

Springsteen's new song and video serve as a powerful artistic response to the ongoing tensions and violence in Minneapolis, drawing attention to the issues of federal overreach, immigration rights, and the loss of innocent life.

The details

The lyric video for "Streets of Minneapolis" was directed by Springsteen's longtime collaborator Thom Zimny. It displays the lyrics of the song while cutting between footage of Springsteen performing and news clips of the recent events in Minneapolis, including protests against ICE, clashes between federal agents and demonstrators, and memorials for Alex Pretti and Renee Good, the two Minneapolis residents who were fatally shot by federal agents.

  • Springsteen wrote the song on Saturday, recorded it on Sunday, and released it on Wednesday.

The players

Bruce Springsteen

A legendary American singer-songwriter known for his socially conscious music and longtime advocacy for working-class Americans.

Thom Zimny

A filmmaker who has collaborated extensively with Springsteen, directing music videos and documentaries about the artist.

Alex Pretti

A Minneapolis resident who was fatally shot by federal agents, sparking protests and memorials in the city.

Renee Good

A Minneapolis resident who was also fatally shot by federal agents, further fueling the tensions and unrest in the city.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I wrote this song on Saturday, recorded it yesterday and released it to you today in response to the state terror being visited on the city of Minneapolis. It's dedicated to the people of Minneapolis, our innocent immigrant neighbors and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good.”

— Bruce Springsteen (Instagram)

The takeaway

Springsteen's powerful new song and video serve as a poignant artistic statement against the ongoing violence and injustice in Minneapolis, highlighting the need for greater accountability, protection of civil liberties, and respect for human life.