On 12/12/12, Bruce Springsteen was the opening act in the benefit concert to aid those affected by Hurricane Sandy. Springsteen and the E Street Band started the show with “Land of Hope and Dreams” and “Wrecking Ball”, both welcomed with a high roars from the crowd. The band addressed the rebuilding process in introducing his song “My City in Ruins”.
The concert also featured performances by Alicia Keys, Paul McCartney and the Rolling Stones. Adam Sandler also made an appearance onstage decking a NY Jets t-shirt. Many of the artists shared personal ties with the Superstorm effected area.
The show, which sold out, was broadcasted worldwde on television, in theaters, online, and on the radio. Producers say more than 2 billion people could experience the concert live. From ticket sales alone, the concert raised $30 million to help victims of Hurricane Sandy. Proceeds from the show will be distributed through the Robin Hood Foundation.
The storm, which hit in October, left millions without power or heat for weeks and killed over 140 people along the East Coast and Caribbean.
Shanika Simmons