**Springsteen Opens Up: Reflections on Life, Touring, and the E Street Band**

*As he approaches his 75th birthday, Springsteen embraces his mortality, the evolution of his artistry, and his band's unique approach to performance.*

Bruce Springsteen, the legendary musician known for his powerful live performances and introspective songwriting, recently offered a candid discussion about his life and career as he prepares for a new documentary and an upcoming tour. Known for his charisma, Springsteen made a memorable entrance that hinted at the magnetic presence he's maintained throughout his 50-year journey in rock and roll.

In an amusing exchange, Springsteen joked about how his name has been mispronounced over the years, illustrating his approachable demeanor. Despite popular sentiment, he expressed his aversion to the nickname "The Boss," which originates from the 1970s. It became customary during his early career when he was in charge of handling the band's earnings: "I hate being called 'Boss.' Always did," he stated in a past interview, a sentiment still echoed in his recent interactions.

His approach to preparing for his latest tour, as depicted in his documentary "Road Diary," reveals a relaxed and casual rehearsal process, much to the concern of guitarist Steve Van Zandt. Springsteen chuckled, recognizing mistakes are part of live performances; that's what audiences pay to witness. "It's all a little bit casual," admitted Van Zandt, who values their camaraderie, yet Springsteen reassured, “They want to see it live. That means a few mistakes!”

The upcoming tour and documentary coincide with the 60th anniversary of Springsteen's first-ever concert. His reasoning for granting filming access this time around is reflective: "I could be dead by the next one." At 75 years old, he acknowledges, "We're closer to the end than we are to the beginning," but vows not to fade quietly into retirement.

Springsteen's dedication to his audience remains unwavering; during a recent performance in Sunderland, even adverse weather conditions could not deter him. Postponing shows due to health issues, he emphasized that his commitment lies with the "people that are there." Reflecting on his origins, Springsteen reminisced about his humble beginnings in New Jersey, where he performed at various venues in his teenage years and gained an understanding of different life experiences, intertwining them with his musical narratives.

The artist has also embraced the reality of aging—both with humor and sobriety—as he deals with heightened awareness of loss. With his wife, Patti Scialfa, facing health challenges, he stays optimistic, acknowledging her resilience and pending new endeavors. Together, they have cultivated a lasting bond over decades, marked by mutual support amidst adversity.

Remarkably, Springsteen has maintained a sense of distance from his bandmates, which he believes is instrumental in preserving their harmony, saying, "When we're not playing, we rarely see each other. We've seen each other enough!" While he appreciates the collaborative artistry, he clarified he doesn't entertain "drama" within the band dynamics.

With a contagious spirit, Springsteen is set to continue performing, drawing from his life's purpose as he expresses: "I go on stage to lose myself.” His upcoming documentary promises to provide fans with unprecedented insight into his world, further cementing his legacy in the rock and roll fabric of America. "Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band" premieres on Disney+ on October 25, capturing the essence of a musician who has not just survived, but thrived on the stage he calls home.