An announcement made mid-concert in Washington
Friday, May 29. Bruce Springsteen and guitarist Tom Morello are preparing a day of protest concerts aimed at Donald Trump’s administration, in the Washington area, one month before the midterm vote. Foo Fighters, Dave Matthews, Brittany Howard and Joan Baez are also among the headliners.
The two musicians unveiled the project on Wednesday, while sharing the stage at Nationals Park, according to a public broadcaster. Springsteen was performing there as part of his American tour, Land of Hope and Dreams. Morello, known for his time in Rage Against the Machine, Audioslave and Prophets of Rage, also plays in the singer’s E Street Band.
Politically charged songs on the night’s program
Springsteen worked several heavily political tracks into his set. He notably performed “American Skin (41 Shots)”, inspired by a deadly police shooting, as well as “Streets of Minneapolis”, written after the deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti, killed by federal immigration agents.
Harsh words against the administration
The singer did not spare those in power. “The Gestapo tactics of this president and this administration will not stand here,” he declared onstage. He also called on Americans to act for themselves: “This American tragedy can only be stopped by the American people: you. There is no one coming to save us. We’ve got to do it ourselves.” The Born in the U.S.A. performer invited his audience to join the fight for the country he loves.
“Power to the People”
The musical event, Power to the People, will take place on October 3 at Merriweather Post Pavilion, in Columbia, Maryland. Planned for a single day and two stages, it presents itself as a celebration of “freedom, justice, equality and rock and roll”. A portion of the proceeds will go to the organizations VoteRiders and HeadCount.
Morello champions the power of “everyday people”
In a statement, Tom Morello praised the strength of coming together. “It’s about the power everyday human beings have when they come together through music, art, community and action,” he said. The guitarist said he was honored to bring this lineup near Washington for a day geared toward activism, creativity and hope.
A packed lineup
Beyond the headliners already mentioned, the festival will host Dropkick Murphys, actor Jack Black, Serj Tankian of System of a Down, rapper Killer Mike, Taylor Momsen and the Linda Lindas, among others, according to a report.
A long-running standoff with Donald Trump
The singer has long opposed the president, the outlet recalls. Trump, for his part, has called for a boycott of his concerts, branding him a “total loser who spews hate”. On Wednesday, Springsteen also led the crowd in an “ICE out!” chant, targeting U.S. immigration enforcement.
