Trump Slams Springsteen as “Overrated” After Rock Legend Blasts U.S. Leadership During European Tour Kickoff

The legendary rocker launched the European leg of his Land of Hopes and Dreams tour in Manchester on May 14 with a fiery message criticizing what he called the “corrupt, incompetent, and treasonous” leadership of the United States. The remarks, delivered mid-show to a packed Etihad Stadium, have since sparked a political and cultural firestorm—prompting a scathing response from former President Donald Trump.

Taking to his Truth Social platform on Friday, Trump unleashed a barrage of personal attacks on Springsteen, calling the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer “highly overrated … not a talented guy – just a pushy, obnoxious JERK.” He continued, “Sleepy Joe didn’t have a clue as to what he was doing, but Springsteen is ‘dumb as a rock,’ and couldn’t see what was going on, or could he (which is even worse!).”

Trump didn’t stop there. “This dried out ‘prune’ of a rocker (his skin is all atrophied!) ought to KEEP HIS MOUTH SHUT until he gets back into the country,” he wrote. “That’s just ‘standard fare.’ Then we’ll all see how it goes for him!”

Springsteen’s onstage statement was anything but subtle. “The mighty E Street Band is here tonight to call upon the righteous power of art, of music, of rock ‘n’ roll in dangerous times,” he told fans. “In my home, the America I love … is currently in the hands of a corrupt, incompetent and treasonous administration.” He then urged, “All who believe in democracy and the best of our American experiment: rise with us, raise your voices against authoritarianism, and let freedom ring!”

The evening’s 29-song setlist echoed themes of American identity and justice, kicking off with “Land of Hope and Dreams” and touching emotional chords with performances of “Death to My Hometown,” “My Hometown,” and the rarely played “Rainmaker,” which he said was “dedicated to our dear leader.”

Notably, Springsteen revived “Murder Incorporated” for the first time since 2017 and closed the show with a poignant rendition of Bob Dylan’s “Chimes of Freedom”—a song he hadn’t performed live since 1988.

The concert marked the start of Springsteen’s latest European journey, with additional performances scheduled across the continent. His outspoken remarks and pointed song choices come as the U.S. continues to reel from deep political divides ahead of the 2024 presidential election—and as Trump positions himself for a return to the White House.

Earlier this year, Springsteen took part in the 2025 American Music Honors at Monmouth University’s Pollak Theatre, performing alongside Smokey Robinson, Tom Morello, and John Fogerty. The event, celebrating musical icons, saw Springsteen and his longtime collaborators Patti Scialfa and Steve Van Zandt deliver powerful performances of “This Land Is Your Land,” “Fortunate Son,” and “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out.”

Following Trump’s attacks on both Springsteen and pop superstar Taylor Swift, the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) issued a strong statement in support of its members.

“The AFM will not remain silent as two of our members — Bruce Springsteen and Taylor Swift — are singled out and personally attacked by the President of the United States,” the statement read. “They are not just brilliant musicians, they are role models and inspirations to millions. Musicians have the right to freedom of expression, and we stand in solidarity with all our members.”

Springsteen is set to perform again in Manchester on May 17 and May 20.