Former President Donald Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with Bruce Springsteen, labeling him as “highly overrated” and “dumb as a rock” in a passionate post on Truth Social. This outburst followed Springsteen’s criticism of Trump’s administration during a concert in Manchester, England, where the musician voiced his strong opinions about the current political climate in the United States.
On Friday morning, May 16, just two days after Springsteen publicly criticized the U.S. government’s leadership as “corrupt, incompetent, and treasonous” at the launch of his 2025 European tour, Trump took to social media. He began his tirade by stating, “I see that Highly Overrated Bruce Springsteen goes to a Foreign Country to speak badly about the President of the United States.” This comment highlights Trump’s disdain for public figures who criticize his administration from abroad.
Trump continued his critique by declaring, “Never liked him, never liked his music, or his Radical Left Politics and, importantly, he’s not a talented guy — Just a pushy, obnoxious JERK, who fervently supported Crooked Joe Biden, a mentally incompetent FOOL, and our WORST EVER President, who came close to destroying our Country.” His remarks reflect a deep-seated animosity towards both Springsteen and Biden, whom he views as detrimental to the nation. He further stated, “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!)?” This indicates Trump’s belief that Springsteen’s criticism is misguided and uninformed.
Trump disparaged Springsteen further, referring to him as “this dried out ‘prune’ of a rocker (his skin is all atrophied!)” and suggesting that he should “KEEP HIS MOUTH SHUT until he gets back into the Country, that’s just ‘standard fare.’” Trump’s comments reveal not only his personal dislike for Springsteen but also his broader disdain for artists who use their platforms to challenge political leaders. He ominously concluded, “Then we’ll all see how it goes for him!” indicating that he believes there will be consequences for Springsteen’s outspoken opinions.
Billboard has reached out to Springsteen’s representatives for a response to Trump’s comments. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between political figures and celebrities, particularly as artists feel compelled to voice their opinions on significant issues facing the nation today.
Trump’s remarks were made following a performance by Springsteen in Manchester on May 14, where he addressed the audience by saying, “The mighty E Street Band is here tonight to call upon the righteous power of art, of music, of rock and roll, in dangerous times.” This statement emphasizes Springsteen’s belief in the transformative power of music and art, especially during turbulent periods in history.
He continued by lamenting, “In my home, the America I love, the America I’ve written about, and has been a beacon of hope and liberty for 250 years, is currently in the hands of a corrupt, incompetent and treasonous administration.” His powerful words resonate with many Americans who feel disillusioned by current political leadership. Springsteen then urged concertgoers, “Tonight, we ask all who believe in democracy and the best of our American experience to rise with us, raise your voices against authoritarianism, and let freedom ring.” This rallying cry calls for unity and resistance against oppressive governance.
Springsteen, who shared his speech on his Instagram account, has long been vocal about his political beliefs, endorsing Kamala Harris in the upcoming 2024 election. He has previously labeled Trump a “threat to our democracy” during an interview with The Atlantic four years ago, demonstrating his consistent opposition to Trump’s policies and rhetoric.
The iconic “Born in the U.S.A.” singer is among numerous prominent music artists who have openly criticized Trump, and he is not the only one targeted by the former reality television star recently. On the same day, Trump also directed insults at Taylor Swift, questioning whether the 14-time Grammy winner is “no longer ‘HOT?’” This behavior underscores Trump’s pattern of attacking public figures who express dissent against him.
