Springsteen: I rarely see my bandmates - we've seen each other enough

Bruce Springsteen, the legendary musician known for his powerful performances and heartfelt lyrics, recently shared some insights about his life and career. In a candid interview, he expressed that he rarely sees his bandmates from The E Street Band, jokingly stating, 'We've seen each other enough! ' This light-hearted comment reflects his long-standing relationship with his band, which has been a significant part of his life for decades. Springsteen is known for his charismatic presence, and during the interview, he took the time to greet each member of the BBC film crew, showcasing his friendly nature. He even made a humorous remark about a journalist who mistakenly referred to him as 'Springstein,' saying, 'I’ve been called worse. ' This shows that he has a good sense of humor and doesn't take himself too seriously. Interestingly, Springsteen has always disliked the nickname 'The Boss,' which was given to him in the early days of his career when he was responsible for managing the band's finances. He explained, 'I hate being called 'Boss. ' I always did, from the beginning. ' This sentiment is notably absent from his new documentary, 'Road Diary,' which chronicles the preparation for his first tour since the pandemic. The documentary offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes process of getting ready for performances after a long break. During the rehearsals, there were moments of casualness that concerned his guitarist, Steve Van Zandt. He expressed his worries about the lack of rigor, but Springsteen reassured him, saying, 'That’s what they’re paying for. They want to see it live. That means a few mistakes! ' This highlights Springsteen's understanding of the live music experience and his willingness to embrace imperfections. Springsteen is widely regarded as one of the most in-demand live performers in the world. His concerts are known for their energy and connection with the audience. Recently, he performed at the BST Hyde Park festival in London, captivating a massive crowd. Reflecting on his long career, Springsteen noted that he has been playing music for 50 years, with his first gig taking place when he was just starting out. Now at 75 years old, he feels a sense of urgency to make the most of his time. He stated, 'I've decided that the waiting-to-do-things part of my life is over. ' This determination to seize the moment is evident in his performances, where he pours his heart and soul into every show. Springsteen's concerts are not just about the music; they are a celebration of his connection with his fans. He expressed his love for his audience, saying, 'These are my people. These are the people who've listened to my music for the past 30 or 40 years. ' He believes in giving his best, regardless of the circumstances. During a concert in Sunderland, despite facing challenging weather conditions that caused him to lose his voice, he remained committed to entertaining his fans. He explained, 'I'm there to have a good time, whether it's raining or the sun is shining. ' This dedication to his audience is a testament to his character and passion for music. Springsteen's journey in music began in his youth. Born in New Jersey, he was inspired to pursue music after seeing Elvis Presley on television. He bought a guitar and started playing in various venues, including pizza parlors and even a supermarket opening. Initially, he struggled with stage fright, but over time, he transformed into a confident performer. His friend, Steve Van Zandt, recalls how Springsteen evolved from being shy to dancing on tables during performances. This change marked a turning point in his career, leading to his breakout success. Springsteen's music often tells stories of struggle and hope. His iconic album 'Born To Run' became a massive hit, selling millions of copies. The songs resonate with listeners, capturing the essence of the American experience. Springsteen's rise to fame is a testament to his talent and hard work, but he acknowledges that luck played a role in his success. He has witnessed the changing landscape of the music industry and recognizes that being a young band today is different from his early days. Despite the challenges, he remains optimistic about the future of music. Springsteen is aware of the passage of time and the loss of friends from his past. He pays tribute to those who have passed away during his concerts, honoring their memory. His wife, Patti Scialfa, has also faced health challenges, but he remains supportive and proud of her accomplishments. As he continues to perform, Springsteen is excited about upcoming concerts in Europe, where he plans to make up for missed shows. He believes that the bond with his bandmates is essential, and they have learned to give each other space when not performing. He humorously stated, 'When we're not playing, we rarely see each other. We've seen each other enough! ' This perspective reflects his understanding of the dynamics of a long-lasting band. Springsteen values a drama-free environment and focuses on the music. He stated, 'I don't like drama. I don't want people knocking heads. ' This commitment to maintaining a positive atmosphere has contributed to the band's longevity. In the documentary, he promises to keep performing 'until the wheels come off. ' He also shared that performing helps him cope with his feelings, saying, 'I go on stage to lose myself. ' This reveals the therapeutic nature of music for him. As he embarks on this new chapter of his career, he continues to learn about himself and his passion for performing. The documentary 'Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band' is set to premiere soon, and fans are eagerly anticipating its release.