Politicians Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez made a surprise appearance to introduce The Strokes at a homecoming concert in Queens.
Key facts
- •Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez introduced The Strokes at a Queens concert on October 2.
- •The event at Flushing Meadows Corona Park drew an estimated crowd of 40,000 fans.
- •The Strokes previously headlined a 2020 campaign rally for Sanders in New Hampshire.
- •The band's seventh album, 'Reality Awaits,' was released in July.
- •The group is set to begin a UK tour later this month, including two shows at London's O2.
Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez appeared on stage at Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens, New York, on October 2 to introduce the band The Strokes. The surprise appearance took place before the band’s headlining performance at their homecoming show, which also featured supporting acts Beach House, TV On The Radio, and Fcukers.
By the numbers
Political Messaging and Voter Engagement
During their introduction, Ocasio-Cortez praised the band for their commitment to social issues, including fighting fascism, raising wages, and advocating for universal healthcare. Sanders echoed these sentiments, commending the group for their long-standing support of economic justice and anti-racism efforts. Both politicians utilized the platform to urge the estimated 40,000 attendees to participate in the upcoming November elections to combat authoritarianism. Following the introduction, lead singer Julian Casablancas joked with the band's drummer, Fab Moretti, before the group began their set with the song "Lonely in the Future."
History of Collaboration
The appearance continues a long-standing association between the band and the Vermont senator. In 2020, The Strokes headlined a "Get Out The Vote" rally in Durham, New Hampshire, to support Sanders’ presidential campaign. At that time, Casablancas described Sanders as a "dedicated, diligent, & trustworthy patriot" and a fellow native New Yorker, noting the band's support for his efforts to challenge corporate influence in American politics. Ocasio-Cortez also participated in that 2020 rally and later appeared with the band at a 2021 fundraiser for New York mayoral candidate Maya Wiley.
Tour and Album Context
The Queens concert follows the July release of the band’s seventh studio album, 'Reality Awaits.' The show was originally announced in June alongside the postponement of the record. The band is scheduled to continue their 'Reality Awaits' tour later this month, which includes a two-night residency at London’s O2 arena, marking their first full UK tour in two decades.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by NME, Rolling Stone.
