Former President Donald Trump has been known for his contentious relationship with high-profile celebrities and the entertainment industry, a dynamic that has often played out publicly and provocatively. During a recent rally in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Trump reignited this feud by targeting three major stars: Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and Bruce Springsteen.

At the rally, Trump compared his 2016 campaign crowds to those of his opponents, boasting that he drew larger crowds without needing high-profile musical acts. He claimed his rallies set attendance records without the need for celebrity endorsements. Trump specifically mentioned that he didn’t need stars like Jennifer Lopez, Jay-Z, or Bruce Springsteen to attract a crowd, unlike Hillary Clinton, who had enlisted their support during her 2016 campaign. He mocked Springsteen for performing only a few songs at Clinton’s rallies and allegedly taking the audience with him when he left, leaving Clinton with a smaller crowd.

These comments quickly went viral, sparking backlash from the fan bases of the targeted celebrities. Beyoncé’s “Beyhive” took to social media to express their outrage, while fans of Jay-Z and Bruce Springsteen also responded critically. The incident added fuel to the ongoing cultural and political divide in the United States.

Beyoncé and Jay-Z have been politically active, notably supporting Hillary Clinton in 2016. Jay-Z once referred to Trump as a “superbug,” criticizing his divisive rhetoric and policies. Beyoncé’s involvement in political campaigns has often included performances and public endorsements, which Trump criticized for their explicit language. Trump’s remarks have not only stirred their fan bases but also highlighted the broader cultural clash between his supporters and those of these celebrities.

Springsteen, known for his disdain for Trump, has been vocal about his criticisms. In an Esquire interview, he condemned Trump for his divisive tactics and lack of interest in uniting the country. Springsteen’s political stance and his influence on his fans further underscore the deep political and cultural divides in the country.

Trump’s animosity toward celebrities who support his political opponents extends beyond Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and Springsteen. During a rally in Pennsylvania, he also criticized Lady Gaga and John Bon Jovi for their support of Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton. He accused Bon Jovi of ingratiating himself for personal gain, alleging that Bon Jovi always acted overly friendly toward him in private.

The tension between Trump and these celebrities is reflective of a broader trend in American politics, where cultural figures play significant roles in shaping public opinion and political discourse. Beyoncé and Jay-Z, in particular, have used their platforms to advocate for social justice and political change, often drawing ire from conservative circles.

Adding to the controversy, Trump’s campaign has faced criticism for using artists’ music without permission. For instance, during the Minneapolis rally, Trump’s campaign played Prince’s “Purple Rain,” prompting a stern reminder from Prince’s estate that they had never authorized the use of his music. This incident highlights the ongoing friction between Trump and the entertainment industry.

As the 2024 election approaches, these cultural clashes are likely to intensify. The involvement of celebrities in politics underscores the increasingly intertwined nature of entertainment and political advocacy. While Trump’s criticisms of celebrities may rally his base, they also provoke significant backlash, reflecting the deep divisions within American society.

In this politically charged atmosphere, the role of celebrities in influencing public opinion and voter behavior continues to be a contentious and influential factor. The ongoing feuds between Trump and high-profile figures like Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and Bruce Springsteen illustrate the powerful intersection of culture and politics in contemporary America.