Bruce Springsteen opened his 2025 “Land of Hope and Dreams Tour” in Manchester, England, with a fiery political statement aimed directly at former President Donald Trump. Addressing a packed crowd at the Etihad Stadium on May 14, Springsteen declared, “The America I love is currently under threat from corruption, incompetence, and a dangerous brand of authoritarianism.” His comments drew roaring applause from the audience, many of whom waved banners supporting democracy and human rights.
Throughout the evening, Springsteen wove political themes into his performance, warning of what he called a “rollback of freedoms” and the “targeting of dissenting voices.” He encouraged fans not just to listen, but to take action, urging them to “raise your voices and let freedom ring.”
The setlist for the night reflected the urgency of his message, featuring the tour debut of “Rainmaker,” a song widely interpreted as a critique of political deception, alongside rarely played tracks like “Murder Incorporated.” The concert concluded with an emotional performance of Bob Dylan’s “Chimes of Freedom,” a song Springsteen hadn’t performed live since 1988.
Springsteen’s tour will continue across Europe in the coming months, alongside the release of his new box set, “Tracks II: The Lost Albums.”
