Green Day made headlines after mocking Elon Musk during a concert in Johannesburg.
The band altered the lyrics of their hit song “American Idiot” to take a direct jab at the billionaire. The moment quickly gained attention online, sparking reactions from both fans and critics.
Green Day has never shied away from making political statements. Frontman Billie Joe Armstrong has previously spoken out against the MAGA movement and former President Donald Trump. In past performances, he altered lyrics to criticize right-wing ideologies.
Musk, known for his influence in politics and technology, has been a controversial figure. He has faced backlash for comments about Taylor Swift and ongoing disputes with his ex-partner Grimes. His relationship with Trump has also drawn scrutiny.
Green Day calls out Musk on stage
During their performance in Johannesburg, Armstrong changed the lyrics of “American Idiot” to criticize Musk. Instead of singing, “I’m not a part of the redneck agenda,” he sang, “I’m not a part of the Elon agenda.”
The timing was significant. The lyric change happened on January 19, just one day before Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States. Musk was also in the spotlight for allegedly making a controversial gesture at the inauguration.
Although Musk denied making a Nazi salute, he faced widespread criticism. Celebrities, politicians, and Tesla owners condemned his actions.
The controversy added fuel to the already tense relationship between Musk and Green Day.
Fans react to Green Day’s mockery of Musk
Footage of the altered performance quickly spread online. Fans celebrated the moment, with many taking to social media to share their thoughts.
One fan wrote, “Elon gonna be pissed and it will be fantastic.” Another added, “Can’t wait for Elon to throw a hissy fit so I can laugh.”
However, Musk’s supporters were not pleased. One critic sarcastically wrote, “How will @elonmusk ever move forward with a line like that? He will surely perish.”
Green Day continues the mockery in Cape Town
The band didn’t stop in Johannesburg. While performing in Cape Town, Armstrong repeated the altered lyrics, doubling down on his criticism of Musk.
After the Johannesburg concert, Armstrong shared a message on Instagram. He thanked fans, saying, “We had an amazing time. It’s our first time here, and we’re on our way to Cape Town.”
Musk’s history with Green Day
This isn’t the first time Musk has clashed with Green Day. In 2024, Armstrong took aim at Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan. He changed the lyrics of “American Idiot” to say, “I’m not a part of the MAGA agenda.”
Musk responded on X, mocking the band’s activism. “Green Day goes from raging against the machine to milquetoastedly [sic] raging for it,” he wrote.
It seems Armstrong took Musk’s words as a challenge. Rather than engaging online, he used his platform on stage to make his stance clear.
Green Day’s decision to call out Musk has sparked a heated debate. Fans continue to praise the band’s boldness, while Musk’s supporters defend him. With Armstrong showing no signs of backing down, this feud may continue to escalate.