Bruce Springsteen - Born In The U.S.A. (Throwback Review)

Of all the greats from the 80’s rock scene, Bruce Springsteen is arguably the one that’s still kicking the most. Springsteen has always stood out as a symbol of rock - and New Jersey - culture, and it’s no mystery how. Bruce Springsteen’s music had a way of making stories out of life’s simplicities, and that’s the charm behind his classic seventh record, 1984’s Born In The U.S.A.

From the opening notes of the record to the very last, there’s a cloud of familiarity that envelops you while listening to Born In The U.S.A. that makes the music come second to the story that plays in your head. Born In The U.S.A. is like the soundtrack to the average person’s life in the 80s, but with a sense of grandiose that could make any day an event. Title track ‘Born In The U.S.A.' opens the album with its iconic synth intro, bringing into the record feeling good and confident. Springsteen’s raspy voice roars sharply above the anthemic instrumental before added flair comes in the flashier ‘Cover Me‘ and the fun ‘Darlington County,’ which is complete with proud, punchy saxophones. The same is true of the sweet and romantic single ‘Dancing In The Dark,’ which tells a love story in the most endearingly 80’s way possible.

Born In The U.S.A. set a standard for rock records that followed it. Above the record’s astonishing pop sensibility is Springsteen clearly having a great time making music he believes in. ‘Working On The Highway‘ draws from the average American’s life to create an intimate story full of bustling fun and a feel-good drive. ‘I’m On Fire‘ takes things down a bit for a chiller atmosphere, which is also how the record ends as ‘My Hometown‘ closes off on a reflective note. Whether it’s the upbeat punch of ‘Glory Days‘ or the sweetness of the big ‘Bobby Jean,’ Springsteen managed to turn everyday moments into a memory worth holding onto.

Bruce Springsteen is one of rock’s undeniable legends, and even today his passion for music is beloved by millions of fans. Born In The U.S.A. is a testament to his music: Springsteen made every day a special event with his music, and even today his songs still inspire a sense of hope for today.

Favorite Track: Dancing In The Dark

Least Favorite Track: Glory Days

Rating: 75 / 100

Stream or buy Born In The U.S.A. on Apple Music, and follow our Throwback Playlist on Spotify: