Bruce Springsteen received the Harry Belafonte Voices for Social Justice Award at the 2026 Tribeca Festival on June 13, closing the event with an evening that blended music, activism and reflection.
The honor was presented during a special Tribeca Storytellers event in lower Manhattan, where Springsteen was joined by U2 frontman Bono, legendary singer-songwriter Patti Smith and Tribeca co-founders Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal. The award recognizes artists who use their platform to advocate for social change, a role Springsteen has embraced throughout his decades-long career.
During an onstage conversation with Bono, Springsteen reflected on social responsibility, political engagement and the role artists play in the public conversation. While accepting the award, he dedicated the recognition to communities that he said had stood up against government abuses, adding that he simply sees himself as “a concerned citizen.”
The evening also featured several memorable musical moments. Bono revealed that Springsteen had once declined a request to license one of his songs for a charity campaign supporting HIV/AIDS relief. In a surprising twist, Springsteen admitted he regretted the decision and jokingly apologized to Bono on stage, leading to an embrace between the two rock icons.
Later, Patti Smith joined the event for a couple of performances, including her enduring anthem “People Have the Power.” Springsteen accompanied her on acoustic guitar, while Bono returned to contribute backing vocals.
Although no live performance from Springsteen had been announced, the crowd was treated to a solo version of “Land of Hope and Dreams,” providing a fitting end to the evening. He exited to a standing ovation and left the attendees with a final message to the hometown crowd: “Go Knicks.”
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