11 Times Rockstars Took On Politicians — And Didn’t Hold Back

14 July 2025 rocknews

Rockstars continue to ignite political discourse, with 2025 marking a surge in bold statements. From Tommy Lee’s viral rants to Bob Vylan’s Glastonbury controversy, rock remains a platform for rebellion.

Tommy Lee’s Viral Open Letter to Donald Trump

Tommy Lee’s early 2025 social media post slamming Trump, calling him “a disgrace to the office,” became our most-read article. The Mötley Crüe drummer’s raw critique, resonating with punk fans, solidified his political stance. But was it Tommy that wrote it or shared it?

Bob Vylan’s Unapologetic Punk Fury at Glastonbury

Bob Vylan’s June 28, 2025, Glastonbury set on the West Holts Stage sparked global attention. The London duo led chants of “death, death to the IDF” and “free, free Palestine,” addressing Gaza, with Bobby Vylan declaring, “Sometimes we have to get our message across with violence.” The BBC faced backlash for airing it live, later apologizing, while the band’s US visas were revoked.

Bruce Springsteen’s Rants Against Trump on Tour

At 74, Bruce Springsteen persists in his critiques during the 2025 “Land of Hopes and Dreams” tour. On July 10 in London, he said, “We didn’t write ‘Born in the U.S.A.’ for con men who can’t spell it,” targeting Trump’s democracy threats.

Roger Waters vs. Global Governments

Roger Waters, Pink Floyd co-founder, in 2025 targeted Biden and Ukrainian policy, projecting pigs with slogans at festivals. His June quote, “Politicians are puppets, and the war machine pulls the strings,” fuels his divisive legacy.

Ted Nugent’s MAGA Meltdowns

Ted Nugent’s 2025 outbursts, including a July 12 X post urging conservative votes and past COVID hoax claims, reflect his unhinged right-wing stance, contrasting left-leaning peers.

Green Day’s “No Trump, No KKK” TV Moment

Green Day’s 2016 AMA chant, “No Trump, No KKK, No fascist USA,” echoed in a July 8, 2025, concert, reviving their punk-political identity amid rising tensions.

Corey Taylor’s “Dumbest Timeline” Rant

Slipknot’s Corey Taylor, in a June 2025 podcast, called politics “the dumbest timeline possible,” rejecting partisan nonsense, resonating with disillusioned fans.

Serj Tankian: Philosopher With a Mic

Serj Tankian of System of a Down, in a July 2025 live stream, tackled Armenian genocide and climate change, blending intellect with distortion in his protests.

Trent Reznor Hates the White House Guest List

Trent Reznor, in a May 2025 interview, called Trump a “complete buffoon” and refused White House gigs, saying, “I can’t think of anything more disgusting.”

Bruce Dickinson Refuses to Back Brexit

Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickinson, in a July 2025 BBC interview, criticized Brexit’s “idiocy and fear,” advocating education over dogma with his multifaceted persona.