One of three Mellencamp/Springsteen collaborations on John’s 2022 album Strictly a One-Eyed Jack, “Did You Say Such a Thing” is the only one that truly rocks the way we’d imagine their inevitable team-up to sound.
Except it wasn’t really inevitable.
Although they’d ben acquaintances for years, they’d never exchanged more than polite pleasantries until they played together during a joint appearance at the Rainforest Foundation’s annual (ish) benefit. I was fortunate enough to be there that night, but even in person their on-stage chemistry gave no inkling of the close bond they’d soon forge.
“All of a sudden he was like my big brother,” John told Forbes. “He treated me like I was his sibling, and I treated him with respect. And then we became really good friends, and it just kind of happened.”
What happened was Bruce Springsteen became his Indiana houseguest for a week, where the two hung out, grew closer, and made art and music.
“Wasted Days” was the single that came out of that session, but “Did You Say Such a Thing” is equally strong. One wonders what might come from their next hang.
Did You Say Such a Thing
Recorded: April 10, 2021
Released: Strictly a One-Eyed Jack (2022)
Never performed
© February 23, 2026
