During the explosive launch of his 2025 tour in Manchester, England, Bruce Springsteen delivered a powerful critique of President Donald Trump. He exuberantly expressed, “It’s fantastic to be in Manchester and back in the UK. Welcome to the Land of Hope and Dreams Tour,” as he took the stage. The legendary E Street Band accompanied him, as they invoked the vital power of art, music, and rock and roll amidst troubling times. Springsteen passionately declared that the America he cherishes—a symbol of hope and liberty for 250 years—now suffers under a corrupt and incompetent administration. He called upon all supporters of democracy and the true essence of the American experience to stand with him, raise their voices against authoritarianism, and let freedom resonate in their hearts.

Springsteen, known for his outspoken political stance, received an electric response from the crowd, who erupted in thunderous applause following his opening remarks. He then transitioned seamlessly into his first song of the night, the uplifting “Land of Hopes and Dreams.” You can watch a video of Springsteen’s impactful speech below to relive the moment.

Setlist Highlights from Bruce Springsteen’s 2025 Tour Opener

Springsteen’s unforgettable performance in Manchester showcased a diverse selection of songs from his extensive and iconic career. The setlist featured classic anthems such as “Born to Run,” “Darkness on the Edge of Town,” and “Thunder Road,” alongside newer material that reflects his evolving artistry. Notably, he introduced “Rainmaker,” a track from his 2020 album Letter to You, performed live for the very first time. To conclude the exhilarating evening, Springsteen delivered a heartfelt rendition of Bob Dylan’s “Chimes of Freedom,” marking its first live performance since 1988. For a complete look at the setlist from this historic concert, please see below.

READ MORE: Discover Our Ranking of Bruce Springsteen’s Album Opening Songs

This concert marked Springsteen’s first official show of 2025; however, he had previously graced the stage at a star-studded tribute to Patti Smith in March and performed at the esteemed American Music Honors event in New Jersey last month. His dedicated fans were thrilled to see their idol return to the stage with such fervor and passion.

Looking ahead, Springsteen’s European tour will continue with two additional performances in Manchester, followed by a series of concerts across France, Spain, the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, and the UK. The tour will culminate on July 3 in Milan, Italy, providing fans across the continent an opportunity to experience his electrifying live performances.

Springsteen has confirmed that these upcoming shows will mark the final performances of his extensive tour that began in 2023. By the end of this tour, he will have played a remarkable total of 130 shows, with over 4 million tickets sold, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest live performers in music history.

Watch Bruce Springsteen Perform ‘Because the Night’ at 2025 Tour Opener

Watch Bruce Springsteen Perform ‘Born to Run’ at 2025 Tour Opener

Watch Bruce Springsteen Perform ‘Because the Night’ at 2025 Tour Opener

Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, 5/14/25, Manchester, England, Set List:
1. “Land of Hope and Dreams”
2. “Death to My Hometown”
3. “Lonesome Day”
4. “My Love Will Not Let You Down”
5. “Rainmaker”
6. “Darkness on the Edge of Town”
7. “The Promised Land”
8. “Hungry Heart”
9. “My Hometown”
10. “Youngstown”
11. “Murder Incorporated”
12. “Long Walk Home”
13. “House of a Thousand Guitars”
14. “My City of Ruins”
15. “Letter to You”
16. “Because the Night”
17. “Human Touch”
18. “Wrecking Ball”
19. “The Rising”
20. “Badlands”
21. “Thunder Road”
22. “Born in the U.S.A.”
23. “Born to Run”
24. “Bobby Jean”
25. “Dancing in the Dark”
26. “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out”
27. “Chimes of Freedom”