Bruce Springsteen Apologizes to Bono for Refusing Song in Commercial
Variety • • general
Key Points:
- Bono humorously criticized Bruce Springsteen for refusing to license his song “Girls in Their Summer Clothes” for a Gap commercial supporting Bono’s AIDS foundation (RED), calling it a missed opportunity.
- Springsteen acknowledged the refusal was a mistake, expressing regret and noting the song is one of his personal favorites despite limited audience attention.
- At the Tribeca Festival, Bono honored Springsteen with the Harry Belafonte Voices for Social Justice Award, praising him as a poet, musician, activist, and patriot who gives voice to the American people.
- The event featured a conversation about Springsteen’s Land of Hope and Dreams Tour, known for its political messages, including criticism of President Donald Trump and support for ICE protest movements.
- Patti Smith performed “People Have the Power” in tribute to Springsteen, who then joined Bono for a joint vocal reprise, highlighting the celebratory and collaborative spirit of the event.