About time someone said something.
Journey guitarist Jonathan Cain is pushing back against celebrities who use concerts to deliver political messages, arguing that fans buy tickets to hear music—not campaign speeches.
During an appearance on the Complete Disaster Network podcast, Cain discussed his political views, his love of country, and why he believes entertainers should leave partisan debates off the stage.
Cain, who said he was once a Democrat but now considers himself a committed conservative, didn’t hold back when asked about outspoken Trump critic Bruce Springsteen.
“I’m a strong conservative,” Cain said. “Springsteen needs to just shut up. Him as well as Robert De Niro…who actually cares? Do your art. I do my best to keep politics out of my art.”
The comments come after Springsteen spent part of his Land of Hope & Dreams American Tour criticizing President Donald Trump and his administration during live performances.
While opening the tour in Minnesota earlier this year, the “Born to Run” singer described the Trump administration as “reckless and treasonous” and warned concertgoers that America was experiencing what he called “very dark times.”
Springsteen also argued that longstanding American values were under pressure and criticized U.S. military involvement overseas.
Cain said he believes concerts should be a place where Americans can come together regardless of political affiliation—not another venue for partisan speeches.
Although he openly identifies as both a Christian and a conservative, Cain said he intentionally avoids discussing politics while performing with Journey.
“Everyone knows I’m a Christian and a conservative, but that doesn’t mean I turn my concerts into political speeches. I don’t stand on stage talking politics for 10 minutes.”
The legendary guitarist also said his opinion of Springsteen has changed over the years.
“I used to enjoy his music, but these days I just find him irritating. He’s become a bitter old man, and it’s time for him to knock it off.”
Cain also challenged the patriotic reputation of Springsteen’s iconic hit “Born in the U.S.A.” According to Cain, listeners who carefully examine the lyrics will discover that the song delivers a far more critical message about America than many people realize.
Instead of dividing audiences, Cain said musicians should strive to unite Americans through their performances.
He pointed to former Beatles star Paul McCartney as an example of an artist whose music brings people together regardless of political beliefs.
Cain said he sees the same thing happen every night at Journey concerts.
“Republicans and Democrats are all singing ‘Don’t Stop Believin’.”
According to Cain, that’s exactly what live music should accomplish.
The guitarist also promoted his latest patriotic single, “Winds of Freedom,” saying he released the song because he is proud to be an American and wants his music to reflect those values.
Calling himself a “diehard patriot,” Cain compared his outlook to longtime friend Kid Rock, saying both men grew up loving their country and respecting the American flag.
The debate over politics in entertainment extends beyond Cain and Springsteen.
Earlier this month, Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger said he intentionally avoids political speeches during concerts because audiences come to escape the pressures of everyday life—not hear lectures.
Jagger explained that his goal is to give fans a chance to forget about politics, bills, work, and other daily concerns for a few hours while simply enjoying the music.
“You don’t want to lecture them,” Jagger said.
As more entertainers weigh in on political issues, Cain believes the better approach is simple: let the music bring Americans together and leave the political debates outside the concert venue.