Bruce Springsteen Joins Tom Morello at Minneapolis Protest Concert

Springsteen released his new protest song "Streets of Minneapolis" just two days prior to the surprise appearance.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 9:39am

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In a surprise appearance, Bruce Springsteen joined Tom Morello on stage in Minneapolis at Morello's anti-ICE benefit concert with co-headliners Rise Against. Springsteen had just released his new protest song "Streets of Minneapolis" two days earlier, which he wrote and recorded in a quick turnaround.

Why it matters

Springsteen's appearance at the politically-charged concert and the release of his new protest song highlight his continued activism and willingness to use his platform to speak out on important social and political issues. Meanwhile, the absence of Rage Against the Machine, known for their politically-charged music, has been notable during this turbulent period.

The details

Tom Morello, the guitarist for Rage Against the Machine, organized the anti-ICE benefit concert in Minneapolis. Springsteen surprised the crowd by joining Morello on stage as a special guest performer.

  • Springsteen released the protest song "Streets of Minneapolis" on January 29, 2026.
  • The protest concert in Minneapolis took place on January 30, 2026.

The players

Bruce Springsteen

A legendary singer-songwriter known for his socially and politically-charged music.

Tom Morello

The guitarist for the politically-charged band Rage Against the Machine, who organized the anti-ICE benefit concert in Minneapolis.

Rise Against

The co-headlining band that performed at the anti-ICE benefit concert alongside Morello.

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What they’re saying

“Surprisingly, one of the most politically-charged artists ever – Rage Against the Machine – have been notably absent during one of the most politically turbulent times in our country's history.”

— Matt Bishop, Author (therockrevival.com)

The takeaway

Springsteen's surprise appearance and new protest song demonstrate his continued commitment to using his platform to speak out on important social and political issues, even as other high-profile politically-charged artists have remained notably silent during this turbulent period.