An Artist Known for Defiance in Minnesota Is Coming Back

All too often lately, Minnesota has been the focus of negative headlines. Most recently, an ICE operation in the state has left many residents on edge. That added national attention is now drawing the interest of activist artists, including one with a long history of turning moments of tension into loud, public statements.

Artists Turn Their Attention to Minnesota

Just yesterday, Bruce Springsteen released a song titled Streets Of Minneapolis. That same day, it was also announced that Tom Morello, best known as a founding member of Rage Against the Machine, will be making a stop in Minnesota for a surprise pop up concert at one of the state’s most iconic venues.

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Morello is no stranger to Minnesota or to politically charged performances. Back in 2008, Rage Against the Machine attempted an impromptu concert at the Minnesota State Capitol during the Republican National Convention. Authorities shut off power to the stage, but the band continued anyway, performing through a megaphone as a crowd gathered.

A Pop Up Show at First Avenue in Minnesota

This time around, Morello will be joined by Chicago rock band Rise Against, guitarist Al Di Meola, and singer Ike Reilly. The group will take the stage at First Avenue in Minneapolis Friday, January 30th for an early daytime show. Doors open at 10:30 AM, with the concert running from noon until 2 PM.

The event is officially titled the “Concert of Solidarity & Resistance to Defend Minnesota.” Tickets are priced at $25, and according to Morello, 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the families of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.

Morello Speaks Out in Minnesota

In a social media post announcing the concert, Morello did not mince words. “We are coming to Minneapolis where the people have heroically stood up against ICE, stood up against Trump, stood up against this terrible rising tide of state terror,” he wrote.

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The pop up show arrives at a moment when Minnesota continues to find itself in the national spotlight. Whether viewed as protest, performance, or both, the concert is likely to draw attention not just for the music, but for the message behind it.