The American Music Honors program, held at the Bruce Springsteen Archives and Center for American Music on April 26 at the Pollak Theatre on the campus of Monmouth University, celebrated the enduring power of music as a force for freedom. Now, this vibrant event is available to experience on screen.
A film version of the American Music Honors will be shown on Thursday, November 13, at the West Long Branch theater. Tickets are priced at $20 and can be purchased through springsteenarchives.org.
During the ceremony, several legendary artists were honored in absentia by Springsteen, Patti Scialfa, Little Steven Van Zandt, and Nils Lofgren. These include Smokey Robinson, John Fogerty, Emmylou Harris, Tom Morello, and Joe Ely. Jackson Browne and Darlene Love were also present, joining the evening’s performances alongside Marc Ribler and the Disciples of Soul.
Tom Morello, guitarist for Rage Against the Machine, delivered a powerful speech about the role of music during times of political unrest. His words resonated deeply with the audience.
“It's an honor to be here at the last big awards event before they throw us all in jail,” Morello said. “It's important to note there's never been a successful social movement in this country that has not had a great soundtrack. Joe Hill's union anthems put wind in the sails of those fighting for an eight-hour day. 'We Shall Overcome' steeled the resolve of the Freedom Riders in the Civil Rights movement.”
He continued with a reflection on the impact of music in historical moments:
“Jimi Hendrix' Star-Spangled Banner channeled the moral cacophony of the Vietnam War through a Marshall stack,” he added. “And one or two Rage Against the Machine's songs were heard pumping in the streets at anti-Trump demonstrations last week.”
The packed audience of the 700-capacity theater erupted with cheers, showing their appreciation for Morello’s passionate message.
The event was more than just an award ceremony; it was a celebration of how music has always been intertwined with social change. From protest anthems to civil rights marches, music has provided a voice for the voiceless and a rhythm for the movements.
Each honoree was recognized for their contributions to American music and their influence on generations of artists. The evening featured performances that highlighted the diversity and depth of American musical traditions.
Springsteen, taking the stage with Morello to perform “The Ghost of Tom Joad,” stated “I second that emotion” in reference to Morello's speech.
Other performances include Robinson and Van Zandt singing “Tears of a Clown.” They were then joined by Springsteen for “Going to a Go-Go.”
Fogerty and Springsteen performed “Bad Moon Rising,” “Proud Mary” and “Fortunate Son."
The Springsteen Archives serves as the official repository for the music of Springsteen, plus photographs, periodicals, oral histories, rare recordings, films, and artifacts related to Springsteen and the E Street Band.
The center produces museum exhibitions, symposia and seminars, teacher workshops, concerts, internships, and various other public programs to promote and celebrate American music and its impact on the country's cultural and national identity.
A permanent location for the archives and center on the campus is under construction, and is expected to open in the spring of 2026.
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Chris Jordan, a Jersey Shore native, covers entertainment and features for the USA Today Network New Jersey. Contact him at [email protected]
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: American Music Honors event with Bruce Springsteen, Smokey Robinson is now a film
The American Music Honors program serves as a reminder of the power of music to unite, inspire, and challenge. As Morello emphasized, music is not just entertainment—it is a vital part of our cultural and political landscape. Through its ability to reflect the struggles and triumphs of society, music continues to shape the world around us.
For those who missed the live event, the film version offers a chance to experience the energy and emotion of the night. Whether you're a long-time fan of the honorees or simply appreciate the role of music in history, this film is a must-see.
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