Bruce Springsteen began his post-election concert with a heartfelt and intense performance, dedicating his first song to the United States in what he described as a “fighting prayer” for his country. Taking the stage in Toronto, Canada, he apologized to fans for the delay, explaining that “plane trouble” had caused the concert to start over an hour late. Springsteen then opened with “Long Walk Home” from his 2007 Magic album, a song filled with themes of unity and freedom that resonated strongly with the crowd in light of recent events.
Throughout his career, Springsteen has been vocal about his political beliefs, openly endorsing Kamala Harris during her presidential run and calling former President Donald Trump “the most dangerous candidate” he’s seen. In a prior social media video, Springsteen expressed concern over Trump’s disregard for democratic values, citing his “disdain for the sanctity of the constitution, democracy, and the rule of law.” Now, in this concert, his choice of music and words reflected a renewed call for resilience and unity within the United States.
Following “Long Walk Home,” Springsteen performed “Land of Hope and Dreams,” a song from 2001 often considered an ode to the American spirit. With its message of hope and perseverance, the track echoed the sentiments of many who felt a renewed call to action in the wake of the election. Addressing the audience with sincerity, he reaffirmed his commitment to the ideals he holds dear, striking a chord with listeners who share his concerns for the nation’s future.
The post-election atmosphere extended beyond Springsteen, as various celebrities voiced reactions to the outcome. Ariana Grande and Billie Eilish expressed sorrow and frustration, with Eilish commenting that the results felt like “a war on women.” Meanwhile, rapper Cardi B praised Harris for her groundbreaking campaign, expressing pride in Harris’s achievements despite her defeat. In contrast, Amazon’s Jeff Bezos publicly congratulated Trump on his political comeback, noting his “decisive victory” and wishing him success.
The election marked a significant moment for the U.S., highlighting deep divisions as well as resilience. Trump’s comeback, despite legal battles and past controversies, underscored a country at a crossroads, as supporters and opponents alike processed the results. With voices like Springsteen’s calling for reflection and hope, the concert served as a reminder of the power of music to inspire and unify, even in challenging times.
