Bruce Springsteen obtained the Harry Belafonte Voices for Social Justice Award on the Tribeca Competition 2026 on June 13, closing out the occasion with an evening that blended music, activism and reflection.
The honour was offered throughout a particular Tribeca Storytellers occasion in decrease Manhattan, the place Springsteen was joined by U2 frontman Bono, legendary singer-songwriter Patti Smith, and Tribeca co-founders Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal. The award recognises artists who use their platform to advocate for social change, a job Springsteen has embraced all through his decades-long profession.
Throughout an onstage dialog with Bono, Springsteen mirrored on civic duty, political engagement and the function artists play in public discourse. Whereas accepting the award, he devoted the popularity to communities he stated had stood up in opposition to authorities overreach, including that he views himself merely as “a involved citizen.”
The night additionally delivered a number of memorable musical moments. Bono revealed that Springsteen had as soon as declined a request to license certainly one of his songs for a charitable marketing campaign supporting HIV/AIDS reduction efforts. In a shocking flip, Springsteen admitted he regretted the choice and jokingly apologised to Bono onstage, prompting an embrace between the 2 rock icons.
Later, Patti Smith joined the occasion for a pair of performances, together with her enduring anthem “Folks Have the Energy.” Springsteen accompanied her on acoustic guitar, whereas Bono returned to contribute backing vocals.
Though no reside efficiency from Springsteen had been introduced, the viewers was handled to a solo rendition of “Land of Hope and Desires,” offering a becoming conclusion to the night. He exited to a standing ovation, leaving attendees with one remaining message directed at his hometown crowd: “Go Knicks.”
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