In the latest political clash between rock icons and the former U.S. president, Neil Young has come to Bruce Springsteen’s defense following a wave of criticism from Donald Trump. The confrontation began after Springsteen voiced his opposition to Trump’s policies during a recent performance in Manchester. Trump responded with a blistering social media rant, warning the legendary musician to “keep his mouth shut” while abroad.
As the controversy sparked widespread support for Springsteen, Neil Young penned a strongly worded open letter via the Neil Young Archives. “Bruce and thousands of musicians think you are ruining America,” he wrote. “You worry about that instead of the dyin’ kids in Gaza. That’s your problem. I am not scared of you. Neither are the rest of us.”
Young urged Trump to focus on actual national crises rather than fixating on dissenting voices. “STOP THINKING ABOUT WHAT ROCKERS ARE SAYING,” he added. “Think about saving America from the mess you made.”
Despite the backlash, Trump doubled down, even suggesting an investigation into Springsteen’s comments. Undeterred, Springsteen continued to speak out, accusing Trump of persecuting those exercising their right to free speech. “This goes beyond politics,” he said. “These actions are too important to ignore.”
Others in the music world have stood firmly behind Springsteen as well. Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder condemned Trump’s rhetoric, noting, “All we heard were personal attacks and threats. No one should be silenced for using their voice.”
This isn’t Neil Young’s first time standing up to presidential power. He famously documented the 1970 Kent State massacre in “Ohio” and later called out George W. Bush in his controversial protest song “Let’s Impeach the President.”
So far, Trump has not responded publicly to Young’s latest remarks.
