Bruce has covered Woody Guthrie’s social and political folk songs time and again, but it was only a matter of time before Bruce discovered Guthrie’s children’s songs, too. “Riding in My Car” must have proved irresistible–which is exactly the descriptor for Bruce’s cover version.
Author: Ken
Featuring a banjo-led arrangement and beautiful harmonies, The Alexander Schmidt Band’s version of “I’m on Fire” deserves a listen.
Poignant, elegiac, and ironic, “Chasin’ Wild Horses” is the perfect centerpiece for Bruce’s finest album. It demands and rewards careful listening and inspection.
One time only: Bruce joins Steve Earle for a faithful cover of The Rolling Stones’ country rock classic, “Dead Flowers.”
“She’s a Woman” is one for the completists, a funky guitar showcase with substandard lyrics. Bruce would get it right a few years later with “She’s the One.”
Kevin Heider’s tender cover of “If I Should Fall Behind” is elevated even higher by his lovely, intimate video.
Mike Ness has played with Bruce on stage on several occasions, but they only collaborated in the studio once. Listen to their “Misery Loves Company” inside.
Bruce’s officially-released cover of Curtis Mayfield’s “Gypsy Woman” adds a hint of danger to the mystery of the original. Take a listen and watch Bruce’s only known performance inside.
Never recorded, released, or even performed, “All I Wanna Know” is a fascinating sneak peek at the early, evolving songwriting craft of Bruce Springsteen.
Just before the American election of 2016, Win Butler of Arcade Fire reminded “Jam the Vote” attendees of what was at stake with his earnest reading of Bruce’s “Born in the U.S.A.”