Bruce Springsteen on 'critical patriotism' and the power of protest music

Article excerpt

Bruce Springsteen opened a center bearing his name at Monmouth University in New Jersey, blending exhibits about his own catalog with broader surveys of American music history. In an interview, the artist discussed his concept of "critical patriotism", loving your country while openly challenging its failures, and reflected on protest music's enduring role in civic discourse. Springsteen, who has long used his platform to comment on politics and social issues, addressed how artists might engage with the current moment. The center serves both as a archive of his influence and as a gateway to understanding American music's relationship with social movements.