My reactions to this book were all over the place. That's not a criticism. That's also the way Springsteen himself seemed to approach his rise and myth like status. I've read his autobiography, so many of the personal details discussed, such as his relationship with his father, were not a surprise to me. What did come as a surprise, while not all that surprising, if that makes sense, is the general air of unease for lack of a better word that Hyden credits to him in this book. He wanted more, got what he wanted, then struggled to deal with the adoration and bigger than life image that became "The Boss". Like us, Springsteen emerges as a mere human, full of hopes and dreams but also the ability to make decisions that impacted many directly, such as the members of the E Street Band, and more indirectly and uncontrollable, those of us who listened to his music. While a fan, I have certainly never been an avid, obsessed with his music type fan, so I have to admit to not being aware of many of the more minute references author Hyden makes to songs, relationships, and the behind the scenes stories.
All that said, this was an absolutely fascinating read. While not a biography, it touches on just about every aspect of his life, including his family and close friendships. It doesn't dwell on any of those, however, simply using them as a springboard to dive into how they impacted his writings and actions. It's more of an effort to discuss why he made "Born in The USA" and it's impact on not just his audience but him, as well as those about him and its misinterpretations. While the author is obviously a genuine, long-time fan, he does manage not to slip too far into "fanboy" mode, to his credit. He can criticize as well as offer his own musings as to "what if" Springsteen had done this or that, or not done this or that. Other artists slip into and out of the narrative, from early influences to the likes of Elvis and Dylan, as well as comparing other artists of the same type towards the end. Even Taylor Swift gets a mention, albeit this seems to have largely been written before she became the almost mythical "Taylor Swift" that she is today. There is also political talk, be forewarned, but it's a respectful tone, And, oh, so much more. Heck, even Ticketmaster and how concert ticket prices gets discussed.
There is absolutely no way I can competently discuss everything that is covered. I'm neither a musical critic/historian or enough of a student of all things Springsteen to be worthy of trying, but fans and even those simply interested in the music and times will find much to ponder within. Hyden writes well, in a very readable fashion, which is plus given the wealth of info covered. I highly recommend this to not just Springsteen fans but all those who wish they knew more about how songs are conceived and brought to a potential audience and the rarely covered aspect of its potential impact on the artist. That both the artist and audience may grow and change is part of this and how his success changed and molded the Bruce Springsteen we see and hear today intrigued me. Thanks #NetGalley and #HatchetteBooks for allowing me this look at Hyden's take on this phenomenon. The title speaks volumes.
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