New Jersey bar owner cancels Springsteen cover band performance following musician’s comments against Trump.

A recent cancellation of a scheduled performance by the No Surrender tribute band, dedicated to honoring the music of Bruce Springsteen, has stirred controversy and drawn national attention. The nine-member band, based in New Jersey, was slated to perform at Riv’s Toms River Hub, a bar along the Jersey Shore. The band was set to receive ,500 and had planned the engagement months in advance.

The cancellation occurred following comments made by the iconic musician Springsteen during his European tour opener, where he was openly critical of former President Donald Trump, labeling his administration as corrupt and incompetent. In light of these remarks, Tony Rivoli, the bar’s owner, reached out to bandleader Brad Hobicorn to express concerns about the potential backlash of hosting a Springsteen tribute act, particularly given the conservative leanings of the bar’s clientele.

Hobicorn reported that Rivoli believed it would be too risky to host the band. In an attempt to salvage the engagement, Hobicorn suggested the possibility of changing the set list to include non-Springsteen classic rock songs. Rivoli, however, expressed reluctance, citing financial implications and the band’s higher fee for their signature Springsteen repertoire.

Following the cancellation announcement, tensions escalated as Rivoli lamented that he felt the band’s fate rested on Springsteen’s political views, claiming that his bar’s patrons would not appreciate the performance at this sensitive moment. Hobicorn articulated the financial ramifications for the band, which relies on performances for income.

Despite initial indications that the show might still proceed, No Surrender ultimately decided to withdraw from the event, citing discomfort about the situation and potential safety concerns. In the wake of this incident, the band has gained significant media attention, with features in various music publications, and reports of increased support from fans who have expressed solidarity on social media platforms.

In a twist of events, No Surrender announced it will instead perform at another venue in Neptune City on the same date, May 30. Meanwhile, Riv’s Toms River Hub’s entertainment schedule remains uncertain.

As this situation has unfolded, it has ignited discussions about the intersection of art, politics, and public sentiment in contemporary America, reflecting the current cultural climate where musicians and entertainers often navigate complex political landscapes.