Bruce Springsteen Apologizes for Refusing to Allow His Song in Bono’s Gap Commercial, Tells U2 Frontman: ‘I Should Have F—ing Done It!’

Bruce Springsteen apologized to Bono on June 8, 2024, for refusing to license his song "Girls in Their Summer Clothes" for a Gap commercial. Bono had presented Springsteen with the Harry Belafonte Voices for Social Justice Award at the Tribeca Festival, where he recounted the story of the declined licensing request. The commercial was intended to benefit Bono's AIDS foundation, (RED). Springsteen expressed regret for the decision, telling Bono, "I should have fucking done it!" He acknowledged that the song was a hit and that the collaboration could have supported a significant cause. The incident highlights a past disagreement between the two musicians regarding commercial use of music for charitable purposes. Springsteen's apology suggests a shift in his perspective on such partnerships, recognizing the potential for music to amplify social impact.