Journey keyboardist Jonathan Cain has launched sharp criticism at Bruce Springsteen, arguing that the rock icon should keep political commentary out of his music and performances.
During a May appearance on the Tom Barnard podcast that recently resurfaced through Variety, Cain took aim at Springsteen and actor Robert De Niro for leveraging their celebrity platforms to voice political opinions.
“Guys like Bruce Springsteen should shut up,” Cain said during the discussion. “Him and… who’s the other one? Robert De Niro. I mean, who cares, guys? Do your art. I try to keep politics out of my music.”
The 76-year-old musician, who is married to evangelist Paula White-Cain—an adviser to President Donald Trump—described his own political evolution, noting that he “used to be a Democrat back in the old days, but I just couldn’t go there anymore.”
Attacks on Springsteen’s Signature Hit
Cain escalated his criticism by calling Springsteen “an annoying, bitter old man” and even took aim at one of the Boss’s most iconic songs. Referencing Springsteen’s 1984 hit “Born in the U.S.A.,” Cain suggested the rock legend should “act like it” if he was born in America.
“Even that song, if you look at the lyrics, I mean, it’s a kind of a diss toward our country,” Cain added, apparently misinterpreting the song’s well-documented critical examination of Vietnam veterans’ treatment in America.
A Long History of Political Engagement
Springsteen has maintained a decades-long tradition of incorporating political themes into his concerts and public appearances. The New Jersey native has been consistently vocal in his criticism of the Trump administration and conservative policies throughout his career.
According to Variety, Springsteen made pointed political comments during a January concert in New Jersey, telling the audience that “ICE should get the [expletive] out of Minneapolis” following the death of Renee Good.
The clash between the two musicians highlights an ongoing debate within the entertainment industry about whether artists should use their platforms for political advocacy. While Springsteen has embraced activism as integral to his artistic identity, Cain advocates for maintaining a separation between art and politics.
Cain’s comments reflect the broader cultural divide over celebrity political engagement, a topic that has intensified in recent years. His connection to the Trump administration through his wife adds another layer to his criticism of Springsteen, who has been among the most prominent entertainment figures opposing Trump’s policies.
Neither Springsteen nor his representatives have publicly responded to Cain’s remarks.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Do your own research and consult a licensed professional before making financial decisions.
