Bruce Springsteen Accepts That His Political Views Won’t Please Everyone: “That’s the Way the Chips Fall”

Earlier this year, the rock icon brought his politically charged Land of Hope and Dreams Tour to audiences across the United States.

Bruce Springsteen has never been shy about expressing his political views, and he understands that his outspoken approach will not resonate with everyone.

During a recent interview with Rolling Stone, the 77-year-old rock legend reflected on the message behind his Land of Hope and Dreams Tour, which brought his politically themed performances to U.S. audiences earlier this year. Springsteen said the tour represented the kind of show he personally wanted to create and the story he felt compelled to share.

He acknowledged that some concertgoers strongly disagreed with the political content of the performances, but said he accepts that reaction.

Springsteen also joked that reaching his later years has given him even more freedom to follow his own instincts. Rather than trying to please everyone, he said he has spent his entire career making the music he believes in and then finding the audience that connects with it.

The Grammy-winning singer has also spoken extensively about what he describes as “critical patriotism.” Earlier this year, he explained that his love for the United States includes being willing to confront the country’s shortcomings, encourage positive change and imagine the nation it could become.

That perspective has been evident throughout Springsteen’s career. His 1984 classic “Born in the U.S.A.” is frequently interpreted as a patriotic celebration, but its lyrics instead center on a Vietnam veteran who returns home feeling abandoned and disillusioned.

Springsteen has continued using his music to comment on political and social issues. In January, he released “Streets of Minneapolis,” a song responding to protests involving ICE in Minneapolis and the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, who were killed by ICE agents.

For Springsteen, his willingness to address controversial subjects appears to remain an important part of his artistry—even when that means some listeners will strongly disagree with the message.