During his recent performance in Manchester, England, legendary musician Bruce Springsteen paused the music to deliver a powerful political message. While energizing a packed crowd on his British tour, Springsteen turned the spotlight toward rising tensions back home in the United States, criticizing the current administration under President.

Footage of Springsteen’s remarks quickly went viral on social media, prompting a sharp response from Trump. In reaction, the American Federation of Musicians issued a statement in support of Springsteen—along with fellow artist Taylor Swift—backing their right to speak out.

Legendary musician Bruce Springsteen kicks off his highly-anticipated “Land of Hope & Dreams” with a fiery takedown of Trump as “corrupt, incompetent, and treasonous.”

The American Federation Of Musicians Stand Up For Bruce Springsteen And Taylor Swift

After Bruce Springsteen criticized the U.S. administration during a UK concert, Donald Trump fired back on social media, calling him “overrated” and “a pushy, obnoxious jerk,” also taking aim at his support for Joe Biden. Trump has previously targeted Taylor Swift as well, once posting, “Since I said ‘I HATE TAYLOR SWIFT,’ she’s no longer ‘HOT.’”

In response, the American Federation of Musicians issued a strong defense. President Tino Gagliardi stated, “We will not stay silent as two of our members are attacked by the President. Springsteen and Swift are not only gifted artists but global role models.” He affirmed the union’s support for their right to speak freely.

Despite the criticism, Swift and Springsteen remain two of the best-selling artists in history, with over 400 million albums sold between them.