Bruce Springsteen: Pop Icon and Advocate for Social Change and Democracy




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Bruce Springstein has been filling massive stadiums for over fifty years, with fans attending to hear his high-energy, crowd-pleasing rock anthems like "Born to Run." But there is another side to Bruce as a pro-democracy champion. He has taken his voice and advocacy to a new level in his current Land Of Hope and Dreams Tour. The rock anthems are now balanced by his words to the audience and songs that challenge to us to take action. How did Springsteen evolve into the rock spokesperson for progressive values? We will look at the work of those 20th century “good trouble” singers and writers who influenced Bruce and provide context for his advocacy and music. We will consider several current political and social issues such as immigration, racial justice, police brutality, and economic justice and the role these have played in Bruce’s work and advocacy, especially his choice of songs for his current tour. The study group will use YouTube videos, media accounts, and Springsteen’s writings to evaluate his role as an advocate for social change. No prior knowledge of his work is required, just an open mind to listen to and interpret his work. 
 

Class Details

6 Session(s)
Weekly - Thu

Location
500 Davis Center

Instructor
Multiple

Tuition:  $0.00


Schedule Information

Skip dates: (No class on 11/26/2026)

Date(s) Class Days Times Location Instructor(s)
10/29/2026 - 12/10/2026 Weekly - Thu 01:15 PM - 03:15 PM Evanston, 500 Davis Center  Map Roberta Rakove  ; Paul Lehman