the boss

Rewind to Christmas 1980, and my parents bought me one of the best presents I’ve ever received.

It was the double album from Bruce Springsteen called “The River”.  I’d not heard much of his music before that day and had no real idea what his music was like.  I hadn't even asked for the record.  By the end of that Christmas Day though I must have listened to that album at least 3 times.  It was a gift that led to a lifelong love of Bruce and I set about collecting everything he recorded.

I also got to see his legendary live performances twice, in 1985 and 2008.  I only wish I could have seen him more.

Last Christmas I received his biography and although I’ve not started reading it yet I’m really looking forward to learning about his life.  Then just last week the BBC ran a documentary about the recording of “The River” album along with an hour long edit of a concert from 1980.  Brilliant stuff.

To this day, “The River” remains my favourite Springsteen album.  There’s simply not a weak track on it and although it’s straightforward American blue collar rock, it speaks to me in a language I can understand.

Thanks Mum.  Thanks Dad.  Thanks Bruce.