Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band brought Halloween thrills to Montreal with a surprise performance of Ghostbusters, making their October 31st concert a truly memorable night. Kicking off their Canadian tour at the Bell Centre, Springsteen and his iconic band embraced the Halloween spirit by covering Ray Parker Jr.’s 1984 hit, Ghostbusters, for the very first time. Known for his powerful performances, “The Boss” didn’t disappoint as he gave fans a unique twist to his setlist, setting a playful and haunting tone for the night.
The show opened with eerie pre-recorded horror music, creating an atmosphere that suited the Halloween holiday. Dressed all in black, the band took the stage one by one, with Springsteen joining last and greeting the crowd with a warm “Hello, Montreal! Bonsoir!” The band then launched into the Ghostbusters theme, bringing it to life with their energetic style. The E Street Band’s expanded lineup, including a horn section and backup vocalists, helped capture the song’s lively spirit, delivering a rendition that stayed true to the original while showcasing Springsteen’s personal flair.
Beyond Ghostbusters, the Halloween concert featured an impressive 29-song lineup that blended Springsteen classics and fan-favorite hits. Songs like The Promised Land, Hungry Heart, Born to Run, and Dancing in the Dark kept the energy high, while deeper cuts and other beloved tracks filled out the night. This extensive setlist highlighted Springsteen’s dedication to giving his audience a full and unforgettable experience, combining new surprises with familiar anthems.
The Ghostbusters cover was a nod to the popular 1984 supernatural comedy film that starred Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis. In the film, these actors played a team of New York City parapsychologists who start a ghost-catching business. Ray Parker Jr.’s Ghostbusters theme became an instant hit, dominating the Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks in August 1984 and securing its place as a Halloween classic ever since.
Following the Halloween concert, Springsteen and the E Street Band’s Canadian tour continues with a stop in Toronto on November 3, eventually wrapping up on November 22 in Vancouver. Springsteen’s schedule also includes a 2025 European tour with 16 dates, starting on May 14 in Manchester and ending on July 3 in Milan. Fans can expect more exciting performances from Springsteen, as he continues to share his music and energy across North America and Europe.
