Introduction to The Boss

The Boss: a.k.a Bruce Springsteen. Bruce Springsteen is one of the most influential musicians ever to arrive on the U.S music scene in 1973 and continues to make outstanding music today. Consider this a page from the music bible for those of you looking to convert to acceptance of the "Old" era. The Boss has made some albums that cannot be described in one sentence. That single sentence would not do them justice. Those of you who are short on time, begin your conversion with these four albums:
1. Greetings from Asbury Park New Jersey- the first album from Bruce, before he was The Boss. Some truly wonderful songs, such as "Mary Queen of Arkansas", "Growin' Up" and "Does this Bus Stop at 82nd street?" were used to introduce the world to Springsteen. The quirky lyrics of "82nd Street" and "Blinded by the Light" will have you desperate to learn them in no time, then try to slip them into conversations. Ooh, tricky. Let me know if you succeed!

2. Darkness on The Edge of Town- another album filled with classic Springsteen. Highlight songs include "The Promised Land", "Racing in the Street" and "Darkness on the Edge of Town". "Darkness on the Edge of Town" has poetic lyrics fitted with fierce drum beats and beautiful piano. " Till' someday, they just cut it loose, they cut it loose and let it drag em down. Where no-one asks any questions or looks too long in your face, in the darkness on the edge of town." is a favourite quote of mine, where Springsteen talks about people having secrets their whole life until one day they let it loose and it drags them down. Truly poetic. "Racing in the Street" has some jargon for the car lovers and a melancholy piano melody that makes it a classic Bruce song.
"The Promised Land" starts with gorgeous harmonica tune and lyrics that give the impression of the all-American boy "workin' all day in his Daddy's garage and drivin' all night". Must listen for the convertee

3, Born to Run- the album you must listen to in order to fully appreciate the music of Bruce Springsteen. The two epic songs: "Backstreets" and "Jungleland". The devotee's anthem: "Born to Run". The great song, often overlooked: "She's the One". These songs make this my favourite Bruce album. The piano and lyrics in "Backstreets" will make you cry with and I guarantee you will never say "no way, that's old music" ever again. "Jungleland" has an epic saxophone solo that is indescribable. "Born to Run" is one of Bruce's most famous hits (along with "Born in the USA") and seeing it live is a dream of mine. My father has had the pleasure of singing along live with Bruce towards the end (the true right of any fan). "She's the One" has something about it that just makes you fall in love with it. Must be heard to believe it!

4. The Rising- a more modern Bruce album from 2002 has some fresh, upbeat sounds as well as some slow and melancholy tunes to define Bruce in the modern era. "Lonesome Day", "The Rising" and "Mary's Place" are some highlights. I'm a fan of "Your Missing", a slower and deeper song. Extra awesome: hit up you tube and search Bruce Springsteen at the Kennedy Centre honours for Sting's cover of "the Rising". Check out President Obama and Michelle Obama next to Bruce attempting to "groove".

Enjoy your Bruce journey, because it's all good as far as I'm concerned. Listen to these and tell me whether you are also a convert. If you are already a Bruce fan, share your favourite albums with me. Next blog: The Piano Man- Your Guide to the essential Billy Joel.
Danni xoxo