Green Day recently addressed a concert disruption in Detroit caused by a “safety issue.” During a performance of their classic “Longview,” the band darted offstage after receiving signals from their crew. The audience was notified via video screens that the show was paused for more information.
After about ten minutes, the band returned without elaborating on the incident. Frontman Billie Joe Armstrong checked in with fans, saying, “How you guys doing? Everybody OK?” He also encouraged attendees to focus on the moment by putting their phones away.
Following the show, Green Day posted a brief statement on Instagram explaining the situation. They reported, “Detroit! Sorry for the delay in the show tonight, stadium security had us clear the stage while they dealt with a potential safety issue. DPD quickly resolved the situation, and we were able to continue. Thanks for understanding.”
According to the Detroit police, a person was detained for flying a drone over Comerica Park during the concert. “There was an individual that flew a drone into Comerica Park, and because of that, Green Day was taken off the stage. DPD did locate the individual,” said spokesperson Cpl. Dan Donakowski.
This concert was part of Green Day’s Saviors Tour, kicking off in May 2024 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Dookie and the 20th anniversary of American Idiot.
Earlier this year, Armstrong drew attention after holding up a mask of Donald Trump’s face during a concert in Washington, D.C. This act was reminiscent of comedian Kathy Griffin’s controversial pose with a Trump effigy in 2017. Griffin, who supported Armstrong on social media, noted the backlash she faced for her own actions and expressed solidarity with the musician.
The criticism against Armstrong was heightened given that his actions occurred shortly after an assassination attempt against Trump on July 13, where a gunman opened fire during a campaign rally.