Music legend Bruce Springsteen issued a poignant take down against USA President Donald Trump as he started his first night in Manchester on Wednesday (May 14).
Springsteen-fever has certainly gripped the city, with the Born to Run musician's fans lining up outside the Co-op Arena for days and hoping to meet him for autographs.
The Manchester Evening News spoke to his loyal fanbase outside the venue, where he is set to play three huge gigs as part of his residency, including one woman who had queueing since Friday for her 102nd Springsteen show.
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As the lights dimmed on Wednesday and fans were sent into rapturous applause, Springsteen said it was 'great to be back in Manchester' as he welcomed the packed arena to the tour.
He said the E Street band had graced the stage to 'call upon the righteous power of music, art and rock and roll in dangerous times' currently being faced in the USA. Springsteen is a passionate liberal who has repeatedly campaigned for Democratic candidates for president over the years.
Lit by a spotlight, he added: "In my home, the America I love, the America I've written about, that has been a beacon of hope and liberty for 250 years, is currently in the hands of a corrupt, incompetent and treasonous administration.
"Tonight, we ask all who believe in democracy and the best of our American spirit, to rise with us, raise your voices against authoritarianism, and let freedom reign."
The powerful outburst quickly gained attention on X, as one fan shared: "Wow #BruceSpringsteen Bruce Springsteen just battered Trump unbelievable moment at start of Manchester tour."
"Bruce #Springsteen kicks off his LOHAD tour with a message to Trump: 'Incompetent authoritarian…Everyone who believes in democracy rise up," added another.
The American icon, known for hits including Born in the USA and Dancing In The Dark, will perform alongside the E Street band at the venue on May 14, 17 and 20, followed by dates in Liverpool in early June too. He'll also play a series of dates in France, Germany, Spain and Italy over the coming months.
News of the shows was met with huge fanfare as fans of the star scrambled to get tickets for the gigs across Europe. This weekend, music lovers also descended on Manchester city centre to catch a glimpse of the singer, who is currently staying at Gary Neville's Stock Exchange Hotel.
On Saturday, lucky fans took pictures with Springsteen as he signed vinyl and memorabilia on Sussex Street. The rock star looked in good spirits as he posed for pictures and had a few words with those who had lined up before being escorted away by security.
The 75-year-old, who was hailed by Rolling Stone as 'the embodiment of rock and roll', has released 21 studio albums, including his 1973 debut Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J. and his most recent effort, Only the Strong Survive, from 2022.
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