“Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen
In this song, Bruce uses several images to describe real-life New Jersey while convincing his lover, Wendy to go with him on a risky trip out of that town.
Referring to New Jersey, he mentions “mansions of glory”, characteristic of Freehold, drag racing and Highway 9; places where he spent most of his younger years. The singer talks about escaping and doing something dangerous and adventurous such as racing. The message here is that being stuck in one town can make one kill their own potential, hence he’ll move and pursue a life of freedom.
He further convinces his lover, Wendy to come with him on this journey despite him being afraid of what is ahead of him. The writer who depicts himself as very young is on the verge of making a high-risk decision that may change the course of his life, hence his desire for this person to be with him. In the end, he seems to suggest that until they finally find a happier place where they can settle, he will always be on the run, searching.
“Born to Run” Facts
Artist(s): Bruce Springsteen
Writing: Springsteen
Production: Mike Appel along with Springsteen
Release: 25th of August 1975
Album/EP: Springsteen’s rock and roll album “Born to Run”
Genre(s)
Originally a validated rock song. However, it also can be referred to as a power pop track.
Chart Performance
- United States (No. 23)
- Australia (No. 38)
Honors
“Born to Run” has over the years been honored with numerous accolades. One such notable accolade is being included in the list of the most important songs of all time compiled by Rolling Stone.
Notable Covers
- Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s version of 1984
- Big Daddy’s version of 1991
- Melissa Etheridge’s version of 2009
- McFly’s version of 2007
- Roger Daltrey’s version of 2005
Singers Amy Macdonald as well as Eric Church also covered “Born to Run” in 2011 and 2013 respectively.
Was “Born to Run” a single release?
Yes. It was the first single Springsteen put out from his 1975 album of the same name. “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out” was the second single from the album.
