Bruce Springsteen Makes Surprise Minneapolis Appearance at Benefit Concert for Families of Renee Good and Alex Pretti
Rock legend Bruce Springsteen made an unexpected and powerful appearance in Minneapolis on January 30, 2026, joining a benefit concert raising money for the families of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, two people killed in separate shootings during federal immigration enforcement actions.
The event, organized by guitarist Tom Morello and titled A Concert of Solidarity & Resistance to Defend Minnesota!, was held at the iconic First Avenue music venue and sold out within days of its announcement. Proceeds from the benefit were designated to support the families of Good and Pretti, both of whom died earlier in January while federal agents were operating in the city.
Springsteen arrived as the surprise special guest, performing alongside acts that included members of punk band Rise Against, singer-songwriter Ike Reilly, and guitarist Al Di Meola. Morello teased Springsteen’s presence when the show was announced only days before the benefit took place.
The benefit raised more than $35,000, according to The Minnesota Star Tribune.
At the Minneapolis concert, Springsteen debuted his recently released protest anthem “Streets of Minneapolis,” a song he wrote in direct response to the shootings of Good and Pretti and the broader immersion of federal immigration enforcement in the city. He shared that he had sought Morello’s opinion on the song’s political tone before performing it live for the first time at the benefit.
Following that performance, Springsteen and Morello closed the show together, with Morello encouraging attendees to peacefully continue activism outside the venue. The event became both a musical showcase and a moment of public expression, blending performance with protest and support for local families affected by recent violence.
The benefit concert underscored the emotional and cultural impact of Springsteen’s work and activism, particularly his use of music to address sociopolitical issues — a tradition that has defined much of his long career.
