Bruce Springsteen performed an acoustic rendition of Wrecking Ball track “Land of Hope and Dreams” during Obama Presidential Center opening ceremony Thursday in Chicago. He was one of many artist appearing at the event, including Eddie Vedder, U2, Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Hudson, and Tems.
“I’m so glad to be here this afternoon for President Obama and Michelle, Malia and Sasha, you know how I love you all,” Springsteen said before playing. “‘Oh, what a glorious task we are given to continually strive to improve this great nation of ours.’ That was from President Obama’s speech in Selma. President Obama and Michelle, you have exemplified that ideal with lives that have served us all with heart and commitment, love and compassion.”
Springsteen and Obama have a longstanding history of friendship and even collaboration. Obama awarded The Boss the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016, and the pair launched the eight-episode Renegades: Born in the USA podcast in 2021. Springsteen recently wrapped the latest leg of his “Land of Hope and Dreams Tour,” a tour which raised the ire of the current White House occupant.
