Bruce Springsteen Performs Protest Song at Minneapolis Concert

The Boss joins Rage Against the Machine's Tom Morello for a show supporting immigrant families

Jan. 30, 2026 at 9:31pm

Bruce Springsteen made a surprise appearance at a concert in Minneapolis organized by Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello to protest the actions of federal immigration agents. Springsteen performed his new song "Streets of Minneapolis" as well as a version of "The Ghost of Tom Joad" with Morello, and the two joined the other performers in playing John Lennon's "Power to the People." All proceeds from the concert will benefit the families of two individuals who were killed by federal immigration agents in the city.

Why it matters

Springsteen's appearance at the protest concert highlights the growing movement against the actions of federal immigration enforcement, particularly in the wake of high-profile incidents involving the use of force. The event also showcases how musicians are using their platforms to support immigrant communities and advocate for policy changes.

The details

Springsteen performed his new song "Streets of Minneapolis" live for the first time at the concert, which was titled "A Concert of Solidarity & Resistance to Defend Minnesota." He was then joined by Morello for an electric version of "The Ghost of Tom Joad," a song they had previously collaborated on. The two then led the other performers, which included local artists, in a rendition of John Lennon's "Power to the People."

  • The concert took place on Friday afternoon at the First Ave venue in downtown Minneapolis.
  • Springsteen had released "Streets of Minneapolis" just two days prior to the concert.

The players

Bruce Springsteen

A legendary singer-songwriter known for his socially conscious music and activism.

Tom Morello

The guitarist for the band Rage Against the Machine, who organized the protest concert in Minneapolis.

Renee Good

An individual who was shot and killed by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis in January.

Alex Pretti

An individual who was shot and killed by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis in January.

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The takeaway

Springsteen's participation in the protest concert underscores the role that high-profile musicians can play in drawing attention to important social and political issues, particularly around immigration enforcement and its impact on local communities.