Sonny Day’s version of “Saving Up” is the definitive one, even if it’s an obscure cover of an obscure song (unless you’re from Auckland, in which case it’s a classic).
Month: January 2017
Double-entry today: “Savin’ Up” is a Bruce Springsteen original composition, recorded by Clarence Clemons and the Red Bank Rockers, but performed live by Bruce on many occasions.
A lost original Springsteen song survives as a Red Bank Rockers instrumental–but whatever happened to the lyrics?
Darlene Love’s debut album featured this Springsteen-authored, Van Zandt-produced, Spectorian gem.
When Steve Van Zandt produced a comeback album for Darlene Love, Bruce contributed an original song that’s both unmistakably Springsteenian and custom-tailored for Love. Take a listen inside.
One of the more under-the-radar Southside Johnny/Bruce Springsteen collaborations, “Walking Through Midnight” closed Southside’s first solo album in 1988.
Bruce co-wrote “Trapped Again” with Southside Johnny and Steve Van Zandt, but he’s only performed it live once. Check it out inside.
Now here’s a recipe: Start with inspiration from Leiber and Staller, add lyrics by Bruce, music by Steve, and lead vocals by Southside Johnny. Ice with backing vocals by The Drifters, and you’ve got pure pop confection.
Bruce’s original River-era composition, a stellar E Street Band performance and Gary’s passionate vocals make for a standout track on an album full of them.
One of Bruce’s perfect pop songs is hidden away on Gary U.S. Bonds’ 1982 album, On the Line.