Bruce Springsteen has released a new protest song, 'Streets of Minneapolis', that directly criticises President Donald Trump and his administration's immigration policies. The song, written and recorded over a weekend, is a departure from Springsteen's usual metaphorical style, opting for a raw and urgent tone.
The lyrics condemn what Springsteen calls 'King Trump's private army from the DHS' and name Renee Good and Alex Pretti, two individuals killed by federal agents during protests. The song also attacks 'Miller and Noem's dirty lies', referencing key figures in the Trump administration's crackdown on immigrants.
Musically, the track echoes 1960s protest songs with a simple chord structure and a singable chorus featuring chants of 'ICE out!' It includes a harmonica solo and references to the US national anthem and the Bible. Springsteen's song is both a lament and a call to action, celebrating the unity of protesters in Minneapolis.
While some critics may find the song overly direct, its earnestness is seen as a strength in an era where political music is often subtle. Springsteen has been politically outspoken against Trump, who previously called him a 'dried-up prune of a rocker'.
The release comes amid a resurgence of protest music, with artists like Billy Bragg also releasing songs about the Minneapolis protests. Bragg's 'City of Heroes' similarly denounces police brutality and calls for solidarity.
