In a bold statement against injustice, Green Day proved they still know how to stir the pot after nearly four decades in the music scene.

During their electrifying performance at Coachella, the iconic punk band reinterpreted the lyrics of their classic hit ‘Jesus of Suburbia,’ transforming it into a poignant plea for Palestinian children suffering amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Frontman Billie Joe Armstrong passionately sang, “Runnin’ away from pain, like the kids from Palestine / Tales from another broken home,” a significant change from the original lyric that read, “Runnin’ away from pain when you’ve been victimized.”

Armstrong has a history of using their platform for activism; just last month, he called attention to political issues by adapting another lyric, substituting J.D. Vance’s name for a line originally meant to express elation.

The band is no stranger to controversy, famously using their music to criticize political figures, such as when Armstrong declared, “I’m not a part of the MAGA agenda” during a New Year’s Eve performance of ‘American Idiot,’ flipping the original line aimed at a different demographic.

Their Coachella set was nothing short of dramatic, ending in chaos as a surprising firework mishap ignited a palm tree, sending fans into a frenzy. Reports are still determining whether any injuries occurred.

Alongside Green Day, Coachella 2025 promises to deliver an even bigger lineup with headliners like Lady Gaga and Post Malone, and stellar performances from artists like Missy Elliott, Charli XCX, and Megan Thee Stallion. The festival continues to solidify its reputation as a cultural touchpoint, merging music and activism in unforgettable ways.