**In a recent interview, Bruce Springsteen candidly shares insights into his long career, the significance of his audience, his evolving band dynamics, and the impact of aging on his music.**
**Springsteen Reflects on Life, Music, and the E Street Band’s Longevity**
**Springsteen Reflects on Life, Music, and the E Street Band’s Longevity**
**Iconic musician discusses the dynamics of his band and the personal philosophies that keep him performing at 75.**
Bruce Springsteen, the legendary rock musician, recently took a moment to reflect on his illustrious career, band dynamics, and the intimate connection he feels with his audience. Having just stepped out of the rehearsal room for his upcoming tour — his first since the pandemic — Springsteen shared his thoughts on the highs and lows of performing and maintaining relationships within The E Street Band.
Known for his innate ability to connect with his audience, Springsteen's persona radiates charisma and humor, as evidenced by a light-hearted moment in which he jokingly responded to a journalist’s mispronunciation of his name. However, the iconic nickname "The Boss," which he has long disputed, remains absent from his latest work, the Disney+ documentary titled "Road Diary," which chronicles the preparations for the tour.
The documentary marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time that audiences get a behind-the-scenes look at Springsteen’s preparation process. Accompanied by long-time friend and guitarist Steve Van Zandt, Springsteen exhibited a relaxed approach to rehearsals, explaining, "There’s a certain percentage [of songs] that we’re gonna [screw] up anyway… That’s what they’re paying for. They want to see it live."
Despite the casual tone of rehearsals, Springsteen remains one of the most sought-after live performers. Following a remarkable 60 years since his first gig, he recognizes the dwindling time available for his musical endeavors. “Well, because I could be dead by the next one,” he quips about sharing this tour's insights. Van Zandt concurs, acknowledging the underlying theme of vitality intertwined with a conscious acceptance of mortality.
Springsteen’s dedication to his live performances was vividly on display during a memorable concert in Sunderland, where he braved inclement weather to perform for thousands, despite being ordered by doctors not to sing due to losing his voice. His sentiments reveal a deep-seated love for his audience, emphasizing that they are the reason he continues to perform, adding, "These are the people who’ve listened to my music for the past 30 or 40 years."
From his roots in New Jersey to achieving global recognition, Springsteen’s journey began after witnessing Elvis Presley’s performance. He reminisced about playing in various local venues, sharing his struggle with early stage fright. Yet, that introversion transformed over time, igniting a performer capable of electrifying live concerts.
As he navigates the complexities of being a musician at 75, Springsteen remains attuned to the realities of life, including navigating family health challenges, particularly with his wife Patti Scialfa’s ongoing battle with myeloma. Through it all, he maintains a deep-seated appreciation for collaboration, humorously noting, “When we're not playing, we rarely see each other. We've seen each other enough!"
Intertwining personal anecdotes and professional insights, Springsteen’s narrative primarily reflects resilience, a willingness to embrace change, and a commitment to live music. In a landscape where the archetype of a “rock star” evolves, he welcomes emerging artists and acknowledges the shifting dynamics in the industry.
In the end, Springsteen’s commitment to his craft and his audience remains unwavering as he embraces the future of his legacy. "We’re going to balance that mortality with vitality,” he concludes, affirming that the bond with his fans fuels his performance.
"Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band" premieres on October 25 on Disney+.