SPRINGSTEEN STUNS NY FILM FESTIVAL WITH ‘LAND OF HOPE AND DREAMS’

Surprise song at premiere
Bruce Springsteen made an unannounced appearance at the New York Film Festival, performing “Land of Hope and Dreams” following the premiere of the documentary “Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere.” The brief set drew a standing ovation and capped a night celebrating the making of his Nebraska-era classic “Born in the U.S.A.” sessions and their long afterlife in American music. Festival organizers touted the moment as a signature live highlight of this year’s edition.
Why it matters
Springsteen’s cameo underscores the crossover between prestige film festivals and marquee music storytelling, a trend that fuels theatrical docs and streaming specials. Expect a lift in catalog streams and renewed interest in tour dates tied to archival projects. The performance also adds momentum to the documentary’s awards push heading into the autumn circuit.