Over the course of 2009, my most consistent and growing passion has been for Bruce Springsteen and his music. As I delved deeper and deeper into his work and own passions I was surprised and inspired that someone so submerged in pop culture still retains his level of humanity and his ability to be honest to it. Before Springsteen, my music taste was more a collection of greatest hits by my favourite artists, able to rank the songs but unable to rank the musicians. I'd abuse the catchy ones I enjoyed and not even give ones that didn't grab me on that first listen another chance. As Bruce benefits from being easier to trace and a consistent organized style and quality, which I find not even The Beatles have, and despite diving into his music the same way I do with every other artist (of which my sentiment to those initial loves remain) I discovered that as his art opened up to me, there's much more than putting a couple of instruments and words together. He is proof of the American Dream, but what makes him different is how he's applied his talent and humanity and whilst keeping his symbol of the regular guy, he is all about his work, the image just comes with it. And he represents a lot more, showing that appropriate dreams can come true, how to make it happen and that you can carry your inspirations around with you everywhere and still be a hero. Well Bruce is my inspiration (plus all due credit to The E Street Band). And I will carry his advice throughout my whole life, as it's the only thing I can't possibly do anything to lose.
Whilst I am particularly fond of the cinematic style of his music, especially of his invincible piano and guitar riffs, it is the background to the writing of each song that fascinates me. But it has always been the live performances that truly made me admire him. Even his more low-key tracks where he embodies a character still reek of the same emotion. At the peak of my appreciation, I finally saw Bruce live on his Working On A Dream tour in Munich at the start of July I really hope he tours again at least once so I can snatch the next opportunity to be liberated. I also wrote a screenplay characterizing Bruce as a pre-career 18 year old in the late 60s based on his attitudes with his father of which were inspired from the anecdote before The River on the Live 1975-1985 album and the song itself, though it is definitely not a 'biopic'. Aside from The Beatles and Nils Lofgren (a member of the E Street Band anyway), Bruce is the only artist I can truly just put all his albums on shuffle and not only not skip a single track, but sing along to all of them too. There's about 12 (out of 17) of his albums that I love just zoning out and listening to them top to bottom, soaking in the passion and gaining new perspective. And so in this top 100 songs, tracks such as Kitty's Back, New York City Serenade, Streets Of Fire, Night, Used Car, Magic and Cover Me have been omitted to make way for stand out songs on lesser albums as they work finer in context (however, The Ghost of Tom Joad is the only album without a song mention). All the songs are from studio albums or official live albums (when written by Bruce too) so songs like Pretty Flamingo don't make the cut. I’ll give a commentary to my choices too. Here we go...
It's proof that Springsteen still has the ability to deliver the controlled operatic urges he promised 36 years prior. The passion oozes out of it, both in and out of context. There hasn't been an opportunity to hear a live version (though he did play it in Munich) but it works fine on its own on the album.
99. Maria's Bed
It's the vocals that put the smile on my face with the eventual development of music that gain a sense of togetherness and connection. It has a nice light feeling, devoid of pressure, though not particularly cheery. Long Time Comin' narrowly missed the list. Again, like Kingdom of Days, I'm satisfied with the album version.
98. Fade Away
It starts off as one of the quieter tracks from The River (Drive All Night and Wreck on the Highway are other examples, which missed out on this list) but then taps into an emotion that I relate to too much. Unfortunately, Bruce doesn't find a solution to this problem but it's great to wallow in sadness to.
97. Silver Palomino
Heavy and patient, I savour every wave of music it slushes over me. It can't quite get the context of the song above the power of the music but I wouldn't have it any other way.
96. Cadillac Ranch
Excellent riff, ridiculous lyrics. This is just a song to stomp around with instead of with purpose. Definitely a mood track, best done live, specifically on Live 1975-1985 with intro buildup.
95. Tomorrow Never Knows
Nice and playful. Addictive. Can't help but bop my head to it. The lyrics and vocals perfectly compliment the music, especially considering the simplicity. I always just imagine Bruce winking and smiling at me whilst singing this song.
94. Better Days
I listen to this song whenever I get in a new stage in my life to give myself confidence in my own growing as Bruce did, even when I get over that stage. Never get over this song though. Best done on the MTV Unplugged performance as it gets as heavy and passionate as possible.
93. Leah
Smooth and easy, but true all the same. Both the music and lyrics get through in the same nod of my head. It's where Devils & Dust spreads its wings.
92. All I'm Thinkin' About
Puts an instant grin on my face and I can't help but sing along in the same silly voice Bruce does too. Whenever a new woman gets in my head, they have to share room with this song.
91. If I Should Fall Behind
A beautiful concept, which elaborates the true meaning of connection and not the dependence side of a relationship, whether friendship or lovers. This is best summarized by the way Bruce, Stevie Van Sandt, Nils Lofgren, Patti Scialfa and Clarence Clemons sung this together in the New York City reunion performance. The best song on Lucky Town.
90. My City Of Ruins
While it it clear what he is specifically referring to (which is actually untrue, it isn't about 9/11 but more personally about Asbury Park), the optimistic tone of the song cannot reflect the initial reaction as its intended to show that those that remain and their faith can overpower the situation, and this goes for any city and any ruin. Inspiring stuff. Best done in Barcelona on The Rising tour, as Bruce leads the way to salvation.
89. Nebraska
Very somber and a great start to a great album. I'd seen Badlands, a film also inspired by the event, before hearing this song but it was only afterwards that I truly understood the character they tried to comprehend. The atmosphere of the demo tape is perfect for the mood.
88. Reno
The pleasant surprise of Devils & Dust and perhaps the best example of the album's key themes (that being mothers) and styles considering the use of guitar and strings.
87. Pony Boy
Escapism; the true less is more of Human Touch. It transports you right to the therapeutic scenery it originates in. It is precisely the folk elements I enjoy most.
86. Two Hearts
Despite Springsteen's focus on the challenges of relationships, this song alone is enough to counterbalance them and show that the love is worth the effort. Excellent riff. Best done in the New York City performance, sharing spotlight with Stevie and developing the song to "It Takes Two".
85. Countin' On A Miracle
Bruce's most alive modern song and full to the brim of hope in the way we have to sacrifice certain thoughts to be truly happy in an honest perspective. Best performance is the Barcelona translation. I don't really like the acoustic version on The Essential bonus tracks.
84. Jesus Was An Only Son
Bruce reminds us of a fascinating concept, that religious or not, is true regardless. Behind the title track, has the most powerful lyrics on the album. It was the solo performance on Storytellers where Bruce talks about a woman who used to visit his house but died at a young age and he still looks out for her that made me fall in love with this song.
83. Darlington County
An apt summary of the entire album and what it represents as Bruce tastes and savours his last moments of youth devoid of responsibility. This is the E Street Band having fun.
82. Ramrod
The most 'stomp your feet to the beat' Springsteen song, and that's entirely the intention behind it, since whatever the hell it's about isn't even nearly as awesome as this track. The best version is the performance in New York City for two reasons. Firstly, the effortless slap of the guitar Bruce does to introduce it and secondly, boss time!
81. Spirit In The Night
A deserved crowd-pleaser. The whole band is together and clearly having fun, having that reflect right through the recording. The Hammersmith performance is the finest, even despite the long pause.
80. My Lucky Day
Passionate, involving, pour-your-whole-soul-out-and-let-it-simmer great. An excellent throwback to songs like "No Surrender" in its undeniable strength, faith in others and irresistable guitar work.
79. You'll Be Comin' Down
One of the most aggressive songs on Magic, partially about Bush but it applies to whenever a public face wears out, whether to society or one-on-one. Fortunately, Mr. Springsteen's self-awareness of his public face and flaws allows th subtext of the song to never be hypocritical and forever relevant.
78. The Rising
Whilst it does not provide the synthetic uplifting sensation, it has an overwhelming sense of togetherness in the comfortable majority, which is so much more powerful than the latter. An instant classic in his catalog.
77. Livin' In The Future
A song about embracing the fears once hidden, in his own words; the things that your parents would say that it happens only to others and never you. Its tone is empowering.
76. Mansion On The Hill
Nostalgic and comforting. This is a safe haven, an unmolested memory of black and white morality. The version with Nils' slide guitar joining Patti and Bruce's tender duet in New York City is the finest version, which captures the essence of the moment.
75. Hungry Heart
One of those simple pop rock records Mr. Springsteen thoroughly enjoys writing and, ostensibly, playing. While it has the essential undertones of the truth in which he does not solve the question if the appetite can ever be satisfied, but it doesn't make it any less worth it.
74. Backstreets
Beautiful story told beautifully. A bit of early aggression in there but still as soothing as it is emotionally consuming. This is also another example of Bruce savouring his youth, hoping the things and people he's closest to will transition with him. Fortunately, they did. My favourite version is the Hammersmith if just for the fact he sinks into it more than the studio recording.
73. Candy's Room
Starts tense and develops into something more fast paced and involved, delving into the flesh-on-flesh world of relationships rather than the conflict of commitment and emotion. Shines brightest when individual instruments are given their spotlight.
72. Mary's Place
Thoroughly exciting and delightful, spends its time proving there's no limit in the simplicity, them often being true. The best version is in Barcelona, as Bruce introduces the E Street Band. The atmosphere is essential.
71. This Hard Land
Rough and raw, from the harmonica to the guitar to the vocals. Extremely intriguing concept and use of symbolism. His short and powerful lines invoke more emotion than the saddest of his songs.
69. Sad Eyes
So rich, you can swim through the pool of sound. It's the guitar, vocals and chorus that make this song. Can't help but tap that foot and nod that head.
68. I'll Work For Your Love
The lightest and most optimistic of Magic, but only in context, retaining that desired weight to give the album impact. Its confidence is contaigious, especially with a sense of what is earned and deserved.
67. Fire
Sensual and tense, always keeping a level of unpredictability. Makes the best use of silence when necessary, showing off Bruce's ability to do a lot with a little as much as he can do with a lot. It's that moment where he sings "baby we could bed" with Danny in the live version that I love.
66. Girls In Their Summer Clothes
Sharing a similar tone to I'll Work For Your Love, this song can never not put a smile on my face. It's sheer optimism and brightness feeds me faith. Whether he's sad or happy about becoming older is irrelevant, this song works on either level.
65. Because The Night
The piano work is literally flawless but it's the vocal performance that made me fall for this song initially as Bruce pushes the extra note. It shrouds everything in earshot in the atmosphere of a devoted and passionate couple in the night, feeling nostalgic even if you've never heard it before.
64. Prove It All Night
The last breath of effort in Darkness on the Edge of Town, of which I find one of the most exhausting journeys. Whilst it preaches that success requires sacrifice it also boasts explosive piano, guitar and saxaphone sections. Best version is in Barcelona.
63. Devil's Arcade
He has no songs as emersive as this, especially with the music rather than the context or vocals. It warms the blood with throbbing exhalation. An excellent climax to Magic, being a mini-epic on its own.
62. Two Faces
Oddly playful, considering the topic. While he captures the essence of this awful sensation, the organ work is especially delightful, but laughing with Bruce, not at him, helping overcome the situation rather than wallow in it.
61. Rockaway The Days
Ah, the incredible wonderful feeling of light hearted effortless repetitive rock. How I shall never get over thee. Impossible to keep still while listening to this song despite the dreary context, which would have been very suitable for Nebraska.
60. My Father's House
Oozes the sorrow, the intimidating imagery and lack of connection but remains satisfying despite its unresolved ending. It's one of my favourite songs to play because it allows me to keep that riff going for as long as I please.
59. Jesse James
While my sentiment to the song in general comes from my own personal appreciation of the film The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford; this is one of the first songs that drew me towards Bruce's folk songs and even though he didn't write it, he still makes the most of it. Love the Dublin version.
58. Lonesome Day
One of the most aggressive songs on The Rising, filling the void of loneliness with music and understanding the deception that filled it before. This accepts the situation and looks to the future. Plus Bruce keeps me company with this song in the meanwhile. Best done in the Barcelona performance.
57. I'm Goin' Down
Addictive. While it is quite a depressing topic on a relationship burning out, it makes use of every availble moment to contradict itself - as this, is an uplifting song.
56. Working On The Highway
It sums up the purpose of Bruce's image and logic in the regular working class guy dreaming of a better life but then realizing the truth that it will be abruptly halted. The instruments however, are having the time of their lives as is most evident in the Live 1975-1985 compilation.
55. Highway Patrolman
The most heart-felt of all stories Bruce has ever told as he embraces a character. The profound internal conflict of justice versus loyalty comes out mostly through his delicate and minimal approach.
54. We Shall Overcome
53. Reason To Believe
52. Give The Girl A Kiss
51. Tunnel Of Love
50. Out In The Street
49. Into The Fire
48. Brilliant Disguise
47. How Can A Poor Man Stand Such Times And Live
46. The Price You Pay
45. Devils & Dust
44. Adam Raised A Cain
43. Waitin' On A Sunny Day
42. Johnny 99
41. Atlantic City
40. Growin' Up
40. Working On A Dream
39. Long Walk Home
The harmonized quality gives it this urgent feeling, which fills me with a vast amount of motivation. I'll never get sick of this song. Some gorgeous lines in here too; "we're lucky in this town, it's a beautiful place to be born, it just wraps it arms around you, nobody crowds you, nobody goes it alone".
38. Blinded By The Light
37. 4th Of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)
36. She's The One
35. Terry's Song
34. I'm On Fire
While on the surface it appears to be about the protagonist's desire for his girlfriend, it's actually about how he inherited his father's aggression, the burning rage setting Bruce on fire and perhaps ultimately destroying his relationship with his girlfriend. One of the many highlights of Born in the U.S.A., the passionate version from Live 1975-1985 captures an apt mood for the song.
33. Roll Of The Dice
32. American Skin (41 Shots)
31. Tougher Than The Rest
30. The E Street Shuffle
29. Something In The Night
28. Light Of Day
27. Be True
26. Man's Job
25. I Wish I Were Blind
24. Land Of Hope And Dreams
23. Rosalita (Come Out Tonight)
22. Racing In The Streets
21. Factory
20. The Ties That Bind
19. Outlaw Pete
18. Bobby Jean
99. Maria's Bed
It's the vocals that put the smile on my face with the eventual development of music that gain a sense of togetherness and connection. It has a nice light feeling, devoid of pressure, though not particularly cheery. Long Time Comin' narrowly missed the list. Again, like Kingdom of Days, I'm satisfied with the album version.
98. Fade Away
It starts off as one of the quieter tracks from The River (Drive All Night and Wreck on the Highway are other examples, which missed out on this list) but then taps into an emotion that I relate to too much. Unfortunately, Bruce doesn't find a solution to this problem but it's great to wallow in sadness to.
97. Silver Palomino
Heavy and patient, I savour every wave of music it slushes over me. It can't quite get the context of the song above the power of the music but I wouldn't have it any other way.
96. Cadillac Ranch
Excellent riff, ridiculous lyrics. This is just a song to stomp around with instead of with purpose. Definitely a mood track, best done live, specifically on Live 1975-1985 with intro buildup.
95. Tomorrow Never Knows
Nice and playful. Addictive. Can't help but bop my head to it. The lyrics and vocals perfectly compliment the music, especially considering the simplicity. I always just imagine Bruce winking and smiling at me whilst singing this song.
94. Better Days
I listen to this song whenever I get in a new stage in my life to give myself confidence in my own growing as Bruce did, even when I get over that stage. Never get over this song though. Best done on the MTV Unplugged performance as it gets as heavy and passionate as possible.
93. Leah
Smooth and easy, but true all the same. Both the music and lyrics get through in the same nod of my head. It's where Devils & Dust spreads its wings.
92. All I'm Thinkin' About
Puts an instant grin on my face and I can't help but sing along in the same silly voice Bruce does too. Whenever a new woman gets in my head, they have to share room with this song.
91. If I Should Fall Behind
A beautiful concept, which elaborates the true meaning of connection and not the dependence side of a relationship, whether friendship or lovers. This is best summarized by the way Bruce, Stevie Van Sandt, Nils Lofgren, Patti Scialfa and Clarence Clemons sung this together in the New York City reunion performance. The best song on Lucky Town.
90. My City Of Ruins
While it it clear what he is specifically referring to (which is actually untrue, it isn't about 9/11 but more personally about Asbury Park), the optimistic tone of the song cannot reflect the initial reaction as its intended to show that those that remain and their faith can overpower the situation, and this goes for any city and any ruin. Inspiring stuff. Best done in Barcelona on The Rising tour, as Bruce leads the way to salvation.
89. Nebraska
Very somber and a great start to a great album. I'd seen Badlands, a film also inspired by the event, before hearing this song but it was only afterwards that I truly understood the character they tried to comprehend. The atmosphere of the demo tape is perfect for the mood.
88. Reno
The pleasant surprise of Devils & Dust and perhaps the best example of the album's key themes (that being mothers) and styles considering the use of guitar and strings.
87. Pony Boy
Escapism; the true less is more of Human Touch. It transports you right to the therapeutic scenery it originates in. It is precisely the folk elements I enjoy most.
86. Two Hearts
Despite Springsteen's focus on the challenges of relationships, this song alone is enough to counterbalance them and show that the love is worth the effort. Excellent riff. Best done in the New York City performance, sharing spotlight with Stevie and developing the song to "It Takes Two".
85. Countin' On A Miracle
Bruce's most alive modern song and full to the brim of hope in the way we have to sacrifice certain thoughts to be truly happy in an honest perspective. Best performance is the Barcelona translation. I don't really like the acoustic version on The Essential bonus tracks.
84. Jesus Was An Only Son
Bruce reminds us of a fascinating concept, that religious or not, is true regardless. Behind the title track, has the most powerful lyrics on the album. It was the solo performance on Storytellers where Bruce talks about a woman who used to visit his house but died at a young age and he still looks out for her that made me fall in love with this song.
83. Darlington County
An apt summary of the entire album and what it represents as Bruce tastes and savours his last moments of youth devoid of responsibility. This is the E Street Band having fun.
82. Ramrod
The most 'stomp your feet to the beat' Springsteen song, and that's entirely the intention behind it, since whatever the hell it's about isn't even nearly as awesome as this track. The best version is the performance in New York City for two reasons. Firstly, the effortless slap of the guitar Bruce does to introduce it and secondly, boss time!
81. Spirit In The Night
A deserved crowd-pleaser. The whole band is together and clearly having fun, having that reflect right through the recording. The Hammersmith performance is the finest, even despite the long pause.
80. My Lucky Day
Passionate, involving, pour-your-whole-soul-out-and-let-it-simmer great. An excellent throwback to songs like "No Surrender" in its undeniable strength, faith in others and irresistable guitar work.
79. You'll Be Comin' Down
One of the most aggressive songs on Magic, partially about Bush but it applies to whenever a public face wears out, whether to society or one-on-one. Fortunately, Mr. Springsteen's self-awareness of his public face and flaws allows th subtext of the song to never be hypocritical and forever relevant.
78. The Rising
Whilst it does not provide the synthetic uplifting sensation, it has an overwhelming sense of togetherness in the comfortable majority, which is so much more powerful than the latter. An instant classic in his catalog.
77. Livin' In The Future
A song about embracing the fears once hidden, in his own words; the things that your parents would say that it happens only to others and never you. Its tone is empowering.
76. Mansion On The Hill
Nostalgic and comforting. This is a safe haven, an unmolested memory of black and white morality. The version with Nils' slide guitar joining Patti and Bruce's tender duet in New York City is the finest version, which captures the essence of the moment.
75. Hungry Heart
One of those simple pop rock records Mr. Springsteen thoroughly enjoys writing and, ostensibly, playing. While it has the essential undertones of the truth in which he does not solve the question if the appetite can ever be satisfied, but it doesn't make it any less worth it.
74. Backstreets
Beautiful story told beautifully. A bit of early aggression in there but still as soothing as it is emotionally consuming. This is also another example of Bruce savouring his youth, hoping the things and people he's closest to will transition with him. Fortunately, they did. My favourite version is the Hammersmith if just for the fact he sinks into it more than the studio recording.
73. Candy's Room
Starts tense and develops into something more fast paced and involved, delving into the flesh-on-flesh world of relationships rather than the conflict of commitment and emotion. Shines brightest when individual instruments are given their spotlight.
72. Mary's Place
Thoroughly exciting and delightful, spends its time proving there's no limit in the simplicity, them often being true. The best version is in Barcelona, as Bruce introduces the E Street Band. The atmosphere is essential.
71. This Hard Land
Rough and raw, from the harmonica to the guitar to the vocals. Extremely intriguing concept and use of symbolism. His short and powerful lines invoke more emotion than the saddest of his songs.
69. Sad Eyes
So rich, you can swim through the pool of sound. It's the guitar, vocals and chorus that make this song. Can't help but tap that foot and nod that head.
68. I'll Work For Your Love
The lightest and most optimistic of Magic, but only in context, retaining that desired weight to give the album impact. Its confidence is contaigious, especially with a sense of what is earned and deserved.
67. Fire
Sensual and tense, always keeping a level of unpredictability. Makes the best use of silence when necessary, showing off Bruce's ability to do a lot with a little as much as he can do with a lot. It's that moment where he sings "baby we could bed" with Danny in the live version that I love.
66. Girls In Their Summer Clothes
Sharing a similar tone to I'll Work For Your Love, this song can never not put a smile on my face. It's sheer optimism and brightness feeds me faith. Whether he's sad or happy about becoming older is irrelevant, this song works on either level.
65. Because The Night
The piano work is literally flawless but it's the vocal performance that made me fall for this song initially as Bruce pushes the extra note. It shrouds everything in earshot in the atmosphere of a devoted and passionate couple in the night, feeling nostalgic even if you've never heard it before.
64. Prove It All Night
The last breath of effort in Darkness on the Edge of Town, of which I find one of the most exhausting journeys. Whilst it preaches that success requires sacrifice it also boasts explosive piano, guitar and saxaphone sections. Best version is in Barcelona.
63. Devil's Arcade
He has no songs as emersive as this, especially with the music rather than the context or vocals. It warms the blood with throbbing exhalation. An excellent climax to Magic, being a mini-epic on its own.
62. Two Faces
Oddly playful, considering the topic. While he captures the essence of this awful sensation, the organ work is especially delightful, but laughing with Bruce, not at him, helping overcome the situation rather than wallow in it.
61. Rockaway The Days
Ah, the incredible wonderful feeling of light hearted effortless repetitive rock. How I shall never get over thee. Impossible to keep still while listening to this song despite the dreary context, which would have been very suitable for Nebraska.
60. My Father's House
Oozes the sorrow, the intimidating imagery and lack of connection but remains satisfying despite its unresolved ending. It's one of my favourite songs to play because it allows me to keep that riff going for as long as I please.
59. Jesse James
While my sentiment to the song in general comes from my own personal appreciation of the film The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford; this is one of the first songs that drew me towards Bruce's folk songs and even though he didn't write it, he still makes the most of it. Love the Dublin version.
58. Lonesome Day
One of the most aggressive songs on The Rising, filling the void of loneliness with music and understanding the deception that filled it before. This accepts the situation and looks to the future. Plus Bruce keeps me company with this song in the meanwhile. Best done in the Barcelona performance.
57. I'm Goin' Down
Addictive. While it is quite a depressing topic on a relationship burning out, it makes use of every availble moment to contradict itself - as this, is an uplifting song.
56. Working On The Highway
It sums up the purpose of Bruce's image and logic in the regular working class guy dreaming of a better life but then realizing the truth that it will be abruptly halted. The instruments however, are having the time of their lives as is most evident in the Live 1975-1985 compilation.
55. Highway Patrolman
The most heart-felt of all stories Bruce has ever told as he embraces a character. The profound internal conflict of justice versus loyalty comes out mostly through his delicate and minimal approach.
54. We Shall Overcome
53. Reason To Believe
52. Give The Girl A Kiss
51. Tunnel Of Love
50. Out In The Street
49. Into The Fire
48. Brilliant Disguise
47. How Can A Poor Man Stand Such Times And Live
46. The Price You Pay
45. Devils & Dust
44. Adam Raised A Cain
43. Waitin' On A Sunny Day
42. Johnny 99
41. Atlantic City
40. Growin' Up
40. Working On A Dream
39. Long Walk Home
The harmonized quality gives it this urgent feeling, which fills me with a vast amount of motivation. I'll never get sick of this song. Some gorgeous lines in here too; "we're lucky in this town, it's a beautiful place to be born, it just wraps it arms around you, nobody crowds you, nobody goes it alone".
38. Blinded By The Light
37. 4th Of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)
36. She's The One
35. Terry's Song
34. I'm On Fire
While on the surface it appears to be about the protagonist's desire for his girlfriend, it's actually about how he inherited his father's aggression, the burning rage setting Bruce on fire and perhaps ultimately destroying his relationship with his girlfriend. One of the many highlights of Born in the U.S.A., the passionate version from Live 1975-1985 captures an apt mood for the song.
33. Roll Of The Dice
32. American Skin (41 Shots)
31. Tougher Than The Rest
30. The E Street Shuffle
29. Something In The Night
28. Light Of Day
27. Be True
26. Man's Job
25. I Wish I Were Blind
24. Land Of Hope And Dreams
23. Rosalita (Come Out Tonight)
22. Racing In The Streets
21. Factory
20. The Ties That Bind
19. Outlaw Pete
18. Bobby Jean
One of my favourite ideas and minor experiences of Bruce's - describing merely a brief relationship with someone but having to have it cut short (I imagine a male and female pair of 16 year olds, but it may be his adult self with Steve Van Zandt), this being the true extent of a friendship before its exhausted, having the full impact anyone could ever possibly have, but still left hungry regardless. Irresistible piano riff and vocal work compliment the context perfectly, any live version being as good as the studio one
17. Dancing In The Dark
17. Dancing In The Dark
Probably the most accessible and deservedly popular Springsteen song, of which, if someone did not judge him from the above song then it will be for this. It is a very superficial song but it's also a 'forget all your troubles and just move to the music' song - and the best and most iconic use of synthesizer. A common theme in this album is masking various pain and truths with upbeat music, this one for being in a relationship where you don't really know where it's going. Effortless genius.
16. The Wrestler
15. Born In The U.S.A.
16. The Wrestler
15. Born In The U.S.A.
The infinite power in this song can never be stifled by naysayers, whether they interpret it as patriotic or not. Regardless, the patriotic nature is irrelevant, for this is more about something tragic Bruce regularly contemplates - Vietnam veterans returning home to find that it has changed completely. This a song which flows through the head to the point of disorientation, no matter how many times you listen to it. Absolute awe.
14. Incident On 57th Street
13. Human Touch
12. Glory Days
14. Incident On 57th Street
13. Human Touch
12. Glory Days
Immediate happy pill. This unleashes unknown nostalgia of a time never lived and a place never visited, but seems to make it all feel worth it. Glory Days is by far the E Street Band's ultimate jamming song, since this one has no underlying subtext of sorrow as it reveals the joy of times gone and that to come.
11. Wild Billy's Circus Story
10. No Surrender
10. No Surrender
Born in the U.S.A.'s strongest song and the true epitome of everything Bruce and the E Street Band stand for in their unrelentless pursuit to keep playing. The urgency is limitless but it's the weaving of incredible performances that impresses me most, particularly the bending electric guitar in the solo. Of all of the Boss' songs, this has the absolute best attitude embracing all forms of motivation. The acoustic version on Live 1975-1985 gives a better impression of the subtext than the studio one.
09. Thundercrack
08. Darkness on the Edge of Town
07. Badlands
06. The Promised Land
05. Born to Run
04. Jungleland
03. The River
02. Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out
and the greatest Bruce Springsteen song of all-time is...
01. Thunder Road
09. Thundercrack
08. Darkness on the Edge of Town
07. Badlands
06. The Promised Land
05. Born to Run
04. Jungleland
03. The River
02. Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out
and the greatest Bruce Springsteen song of all-time is...
01. Thunder Road
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