Otherwise known as ‘The Boss,’ Bruce Springsteen is one of the greatest rock musicians around, deft on guitar and with writing socially conscious lyrics. Over his career he’s released a staggering 21 studio albums featuring the E Street Band, and in this blog post we’ve managed to whittle it down to 10 of Bruce Springsteen’s best ever songs. 

He is also known for his incredible live performances, giving high-energy shows for sometimes as long as four hours. If you want to be a part of that, keep reading to find out how to get VIP tickets for his upcoming shows at Co-op Live in Manchester.

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Bruce Springsteen’s Best Songs in Order

No. 10: ‘The Promised Land’

Released as a single in the UK in 1977, ‘The Promised Land’ touches on many of the themes found commonly in Bruce Springsteen’s songs – working class America and The American Dream, whether or not it really exists. The song is country and folk-leaning rock, featuring Springsteen’s iconic harmonica as he sings about wanting to leave the Jersey Shore to make it as a musician in New York City.

No. 9: ‘Atlantic City’

From his 1982 album, Nebraska, ‘Atlantic City’ is lyrically about a couple moving to New Jersey to start a life in organised crime, touching on more themes of working class American life as despite the fact that they are searching for a new life, it is not an honest one. The song was originally titled ‘Fistful of Dollars’ after the Clint Eastwood film of the same name.

No. 8: ‘Badlands’

According to Springsteen, he came up with the title ‘Badlands’ first, and then wrote a song to go along with what he thought was a great song name. The E Street Band is immediately identifiable as the song kicks in with a piano and electric guitar riff, and even includes a saxophone solo. The riff is inspired by the song ‘Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood’ by The Animals.

No. 7: ‘Jungleland’

Speaking of saxophone solos, ‘Jungleland’ features one of the most recognisable of Springsteen’s discography, performed by E Street Band saxophonist Clarence Clemons. The song is 10 minutes long, yet incredibly it continues to be a fan favourite and performed live in concert. Perhaps its the jazz stylings, or the themes of love and hope, but also crime and gang life.

No. 6: ‘Born in the U.S.A.’

From the immediately recognisable 1984 album of the same name, ‘Born in the U.S.A.’ is a quintessential Bruce Springsteen song. Despite the seemingly patriotic song title, the lyrics are about a war veteran becoming disillusioned with the Vietnam War, acting as a critique of American society much more than a song to play at Republican rallies.

No. 5: ‘Thunder Road’

While never released as a single, ‘Thunder Road’ is the opening track on Bruce Springsteen’s legendary album Born to Run, immediately catching the listener’s attention from the first track. The song starts unassumingly, with simple piano and harmonica, but has grown into a classic rock staple covered by many artists and appearing on many ‘Greatest Songs of all Time’ lists.

No. 4: ‘The River’

‘The River’ is a prime example of Bruce Springsteen’s heartland rock style, focusing on blue-collar workers in America and music as social commentary. The song makes heavy reference to the state of the economy, working in construction, and was reportedly inspired by Springsteen’s sister and brother-in-law. It is a n essential inclusion in Springsteen’s live performances, with audiences joining in to sing along when the outro is extended.

No. 3: ‘I’m On Fire’

‘I’m On Fire’ is more of a love song, which is still present in Bruce Springsteen’s lyricism despite the social commentary. It’s a soft rockabilly song, blending sensual, classic rock with country to make this iconic tune. Lyrically it’s quite straightforward, about desire and wanting someone who is forbidden or taken.

No. 2: ‘Born to Run’

‘Born to Run’ and the 1975 album of the same name are what catapulted Bruce Springsteen to fame. It is considered his signature song, and that much is obvious from the lyrical content that is largely themed around love and cars. It’s a total banger about freedom, lauded by Rolling Stone and the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame as one of the greatest rock anthems ever.

No. 1: ‘Dancing in the Dark’

With its infectious melody and upbeat tempo, ‘Dancing in the Dark’ explores themes of frustration, longing, and searching for meaning in life, making it one of Bruce Springsteen’s most iconic songs. Blending rock and synthesizers, it marked a departure from Springsteen's earlier sound. ‘Dancing in the Dark’ became a commercial success, symbolizing the struggle to break free and find connection in a world that often feels oppressive.

Get Bruce Springsteen Tickets

Bruce Springsteen will be touring the UK in 2025, with three incredible upcoming shows at Co-op Live, Manchester this May. Don’t miss out and book yourself VIP tickets now to give yourself a truly special experience.

VIP Bruce Springsteen tickets can give you a whole host of luxury inclusions such as early entry, premium seats or even a private suite, a complimentary bar and access to VIP lounges. Check out the variety of hospitality packages we have on offer now!

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