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A New Jersey bar owner took a stand for American values after canceling a Bruce Springsteen tribute band over The Boss’s anti-Trump rants. Tony Rivoli, owner of Riv’s Toms River Hub, refused to host the group No Surrender following Springsteen’s harsh criticism of the former president during overseas concerts. Rivoli called the rocker’s comments divisive and unpatriotic.
Rivoli’s bar is known for its patriotic clientele who stand in silence for the national anthem. He declared “Toms River is red and won’t stand for his bllsht” in text messages to the band. The owner said he couldn’t justify paying $2,500 for a Springsteen-themed show when the artist had disrespected America’s leadership on the global stage.
The tribute band offered to ditch Springsteen’s catalog and play other classic rock hits. Rivoli refused, insisting the money only made sense for a full Boss tribute. Fans attacked Rivoli online, but he stood firm. “Bruce can’t keep his mouth shut and now we’re screwed,” Rivoli told the band.
This isn’t Rivoli’s first clash with controversy. He previously faced backlash for a 2020 sign mocking Eric Garner’s death. Critics called him insensitive, but supporters praised his refusal to bow to political correctness. Rivoli’s latest move shows he’s still fighting against leftist narratives.
No Surrender found a new venue at Headliner Oasis while Riv’s calendar stays empty. The band claims they’re “not political,” but Rivoli says Springsteen forced the issue. “You can’t trash our country and expect small businesses to fund your fans,” Rivoli implied.
Regulars at Riv’s back their owner’s decision. One patron said “We come here to escape the woke mob, not celebrate celebrities who hate America.” Others called Springsteen a hypocrite for attacking Trump while performing in countries with real authoritarian regimes.
The left-wing media blasted Rivoli as a “censor,” but conservatives see a hero. A local talk radio host praised Rivoli for “protecting free speech from celebrity bullies.” The bar owner’s stance reflects growing frustration with Hollywood elites dictating small-town values.
As Springsteen tours Europe mocking American leadership, Rivoli’s stand reminds us real patriotism starts at home. While coastal elites sneer, heartland businesses like Riv’s keep tradition alive. This battle isn’t just about a canceled gig – it’s about who gets to define American culture.
