Who introduced The Strokes at their Queens concert?

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders introduced The Strokes at their Flushing Meadows Corona Park show in Queens, New York.

What did Bernie Sanders say about The Strokes?

Sanders praised The Strokes for their activism, including their support for economic justice, voting rights, and healthcare as a human right. He also encouraged fans to vote in the November election.

Has The Strokes performed at political events before?

Yes, The Strokes headlined a "Get Out the Vote" rally for Bernie Sanders during his 2020 presidential campaign, supporting his bid for the Democratic nomination.

The Strokes NYC show: AOC & Bernie Sanders introduce

New York’s own The Strokes received a star-studded introduction at their recent hometown show in Queens. Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders took the stage at Flushing Meadows Corona Park to celebrate the band’s return to the city—and to remind fans of the power of their vote ahead of the November election. The surprise appearance drew cheers from the crowd of 40,000, blending music and politics in a night that resonated far beyond the stage.

A night of music and political solidarity

The Strokes, known for their sharp indie-rock sound and New York roots, have long been vocal about social and political issues. Their performance in Queens was no exception. Before the band took the stage, AOC praised them as "the greatest rock band of our generation," highlighting their commitment to "fighting fascism and genocide, raising wages, and guaranteeing healthcare for everyone." Sanders followed, echoing her sentiments and thanking the band for their years of activism, from economic justice to voting rights.

The Vermont senator, who has collaborated with The Strokes before, joked about his own musical abilities before delivering a serious message: "We’ve got to get out to vote to stand up to authoritarianism and win in November." The band’s frontman, Julian Casablancas, lightened the mood with a playful remark—"Fab, would you quit making out with Bernie Sanders? We got a show"—before launching into their set with Lonely in the Future.

A history of activism

This isn’t the first time The Strokes have used their platform to support political causes. In 2020, the band headlined a "Get Out the Vote" rally for Sanders during his presidential campaign. Casablancas, a fellow New Yorker, called Sanders "the only truly non-corporate candidate" and praised his dedication to overthrowing corporate power. Their alignment with progressive values has made them a favorite among fans who see music as a tool for change.

For many in the crowd, the show was more than just a concert—it was a reminder of the role artists can play in shaping political discourse. The Strokes’ ability to draw high-profile figures like AOC and Sanders underscores their influence, both musically and culturally.

What fans need to know

The Queens performance was part of The Strokes’ broader connection to New York, a city they’ve called home since their formation in the late 1990s. While no official tour dates have been announced, their appearance in Flushing Meadows suggests they may continue to celebrate their roots in the coming months. Fans eager to catch them live should keep an eye on their official channels for updates.

For those inspired by the band’s political engagement, the November election remains a key focus. Both AOC and Sanders used the platform to emphasize the importance of voting, a message that resonated with the crowd as much as the music itself.

Why this show mattered

The Strokes’ Queens concert was a rare moment where music and politics intersected seamlessly. For longtime fans, it was a reminder of the band’s enduring relevance, both as artists and as advocates for change. Their collaboration with AOC and Sanders highlighted how music can amplify important causes, making the night unforgettable for those in attendance—and for those watching from afar.