Bruce Springsteen has been opening his 2026 Land of Hope and Dreams tour with Edwin Starr’s anti-war song ‘War’, returning to a cover he released as a single 40 years ago. The article argues that its renewed relevance reflects how little has changed: Springsteen still uses his performances to challenge political leaders and speak up for democracy.

It contrasts the Reagan era with Donald Trump’s presidency, describing persistent inequality, climate danger and wars as reasons the song’s question feels increasingly bleak. At a recent show, Springsteen condemned what he called a corrupt administration and urged the audience to oppose authoritarianism; the writer says the crowd’s response to ‘War’ offered a reminder to keep going despite the sense of hopelessness.