Bruce Springsteen Releases ‘Streets of Minneapolis’ – A Stirring Tribute and Protest Anthem

Bruce Springsteen’s new song ‘Streets of Minneapolis’ mourns lost lives and protests against ICE and Trump’s actions in the city.

A Song Born From Urgency and Heartbreak

When Bruce Springsteen drops a new track, you listen. But this time, it’s not just another song; it’s a raw, urgent tribute to a city in pain and a direct call to action against injustice. The Boss shared his powerful single ‘Streets of Minneapolis’, mourning the tragic deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti—two lives lost in Minneapolis under the shadow of ICE enforcement this January.

Bruce Springsteen in a contemplative moment, channeling the spirit of protest into song

Springsteen’s lyrics cut straight to the heart of these recent tragedies, naming the victims and condemning the political forces behind them. The haunting line, “We’ll remember the names of those who died / On the streets of Minneapolis,” reverberates like a solemn vow. And he doesn’t hold back: “King Trump’s private army from the DHS / Guns belted to their coats,” boldly calls out the administration’s role.

“I wrote this song on Saturday, recorded it yesterday and released it to you today in response to the state terror being visited on the city of Minneapolis,” Springsteen said. “It’s dedicated to the people of Minneapolis, our innocent immigrant neighbors and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good. Stay free.”

Listen: Bruce Springsteen – Streets Of Minneapolis (Official Audio)

The Tragedies Behind the Song

The story behind ‘Streets of Minneapolis’ is heartbreakingly real. Renee Good, 37, was fatally shot by ICE agent Jonathan Ross on January 7, sparking nationwide protests. Only weeks later, on January 24, Alex Pretti—also 37—was killed after being shot ten times by an officer less than a mile from where Good was killed. Pretti had been actively participating in protests following Good's death.

Both were U.S. citizens, and their loss has left Minneapolis and the nation grappling with grief and anger. Local leaders like Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz have demanded ICE withdraw from the city. Meanwhile, the administration and Trump supporters have defended the actions of the agents, claiming self-defense.

Springsteen’s Unwavering Stance on ICE and Justice

This isn’t the first time Springsteen has used his platform to speak out against ICE’s heavy-handed tactics. Last year, he famously called for ICE to “get the fuck out of Minneapolis” during a surprise New Jersey show. Introducing ‘The Promised Land’, he reflected on America’s potential and its struggles:

“I wrote this song as an ode to American possibility. It was about a both beautiful but flawed country that we are, and the country that we could be. Right now, we are living through incredibly critical times... The United States, the ideals and the values for which it stood for the past 250 years, is being tested as it’s never been in modern times.”

His words resonate deeply, especially when he addresses the presence of heavily armed federal forces and their tactics in American cities:

"If you believe in the power of the law and that no one stands above it, if you stand against heavily armed masked federal troops invading an American city, using Gestapo tactics against our fellow citizens... send a message to this president... ICE should get the fuck out of Minneapolis."

Springsteen’s condemnation extends beyond Minneapolis. He has also spoken out against ICE raids in Los Angeles, calling the actions “disgusting, and a terrible tragedy.” His activism doesn’t stop there—he has openly called for former President Trump’s impeachment, labeling him “corrupt, incompetent and treasonous.” Back in October, Springsteen endorsed the No Kings movement amid widespread national protests, signaling his commitment to social justice causes.

The Political Back-and-Forth

Of course, not everyone appreciates The Boss’s activism. Trump has fired back with personal attacks, dismissing Springsteen as “highly overrated” and a “pushy, obnoxious jerk.” But for fans and advocates, Springsteen’s music and message embody the spirit of resistance and hope, a true voice for the people during turbulent times.

Springsteen’s Story on the Big Screen

Adding to his cultural impact, a Springsteen biopic titled Deliver Me From Nowhere premiered last year. Jeremy Allen White, known for his role in The Bear, portrayed the legendary musician. The film received critical acclaim, with a notable review praising how it showcased Springsteen’s deep emotional connection to his music:

“What Deliver Me From Nowhere shows well is just how commercial success was a distant second to Springsteen – a man who had no choice but to rip those ‘Nebraska’ songs from his wounded heart.”

Conclusion: A Call to Remember and Resist

Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Streets of Minneapolis’ is a poignant reminder of the human stories behind headlines and protests. It’s a tribute to the fallen, and a call to stand up against injustice wherever it appears. In times like these, music becomes more than art—it becomes action.

FAQ

• What inspired Bruce Springsteen to write ‘Streets of Minneapolis’?
  The song was inspired by the tragic deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, both killed by ICE agents in Minneapolis in January 2026.
• Who were Renee Good and Alex Pretti?
  Both were 37-year-old U.S. citizens who died under controversial circumstances involving ICE agents. Pretti was involved in protests following Good’s death.
• What is Bruce Springsteen’s stance on ICE's presence in Minneapolis?
  He has been outspoken against it, demanding ICE leave the city, calling their actions state terror and heavy-handed enforcement.
• Has Bruce Springsteen publicly criticized former President Trump?
  Yes, he has called for Trump’s impeachment and described him as corrupt and treasonous, also condemning his policies.
• Is there a film about Bruce Springsteen’s life?
  Yes, Deliver Me From Nowhere is a biopic released last year starring Jeremy Allen White as Springsteen.

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