Former Drummer Urges Respect for President Trump
The former drummer of Bruce Springsteen, Vini “Mad Dog” Lopez, suggests that The Boss should show respect for President Trump after Springsteen labeled him as “wanting to be our king.” In a recent address, Springsteen described the current administration as “corrupt, incompetent, racist, reckless, and treasonous.”
Lopez commented to the media that, “Trump is the president of the United States, and everyone should respect him.” He shared his perspective from his winter home in Largo, Florida, adding, “If I were to stand there and talk to him, I would have a lot of respect for this guy.” He joked, “I don’t talk to him about what’s going on politically.”
Unlike Springsteen, who often infuses his concerts with political commentary, Lopez mentioned that his band, The Wonderful Winos, takes a different approach. “My band, by any stretch of the imagination, doesn’t go that far with our music,” said the 77-year-old, who has played in numerous groups over the years.
Lopez played alongside Springsteen for six years, contributing to the famed album “Greetings from Asbury Park, New Jersey.” They parted ways because Lopez’s style was deemed “too jazzy.” He reflected, “I wanted to do it,” he said.
Lopez, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999 with Springsteen’s E Street Band, emphasized that he does not harbor ideological bias, despite his choice to vote Republican in various elections.
Having met Trump years ago while caddying at a New Jersey golf course, Lopez recalled Trump being friendly and even introducing him to Melania. On that occasion, Lopez revealed, “He was very kind to me,” adding that Trump asked him to pass on a message to Springsteen: “Tell Bruce I’m his biggest fan.”
Since then, Trump has referred to Springsteen as a “withered prune” and called for a boycott against him. Still, Lopez maintains that he supports Springsteen’s right to express his opinions, even when they are critical of Trump’s administration.
“I don’t disagree with what Bruce is saying right now,” Lopez acknowledged. He expressed concern about the political divide, stating, “When I was 20, it might have been a little more extreme, but at 77, I just don’t have the energy for it anymore.” He reflected, “It’s so divisive politically. It’s hard for me.”
Lopez remains optimistic about the future, saying he hopes for positive outcomes from Trump’s policies. “I’m looking forward to seeing something good come out,” he remarked.
As for his relationship with Springsteen, Lopez described it as “perfect,” noting that they keep in touch occasionally. “If he wanted me to do something, he would call me.” He added that their conversations often happen during difficult times, like when a crew member has passed away.
Although Lopez doesn’t plan to attend Springsteen’s current tour, he did attend a show in Philadelphia a few years back. “I don’t think he even knew I was there,” Lopez said with a smile, recalling how he was seated quietly in the corner.
