Bruce Springsteen, now 75, is reflecting on the peaks of his career and what fame meant to him.
The rock icon, known for hits like Born to Run and Born in the U.S.A., recently spoke to The Sunday Times about his rise to fame and how he managed to stay grounded during it all.
“I was 35. I had previous experience [of fame] at 25, so I was capable of handling the moment,” he said. “Ninety per cent I enjoyed the ride, 10 per cent of it was stressful, and my take on it now is that it was a cool thing to be at the height of the cultural conversation in the pop world for a while. I just didn’t have any particular interest in staying there. That’s a fool’s game.”
His words are a nod to how fame can be both thrilling and fleeting. While many artists chase the spotlight endlessly, Springsteen made it clear that he never wanted to cling to celebrity status. It was more about the art, less about staying in the public eye.
Springsteen first shot to stardom with Born to Run in the mid-1970s, then found an even bigger global audience with Born in the U.S.A. in the ’80s. But even at the height of pop culture dominance, he always knew what really mattered: the work.
Now based in New Jersey with his wife and E Street Band member Patti Scialfa, Springsteen remains focused on songwriting and live performances. Together, they’ve raised three kids – Evan, 34, Jessica, 33, and Samuel, 31. Life, for him, is more balanced now.
“From there I learnt how important it was not to lose focus on who I am or the work I’m doing,” he said. “It’s more important than the money, although it’s great to get paid well. It’s more important than the fame, although that can be fun too, and a nuisance on occasion.”
Instead, his goal has always been clear: write great songs, play great shows, and keep the conversation going with his audience. That’s the essence of what keeps Springsteen going after decades in the industry.
The man who once brought us “Dancing in the Dark” still feels connected to the roots of rock – and to his own drive. He credits artists like Elvis, The Beatles, and Bob Dylan for shaping the path, but he’s always walked his own road.
“Of course, and I was lucky enough to have Elvis, the Beatles and Bob Dylan, to follow in their footsteps – or not follow in their footsteps,” he added.
For Bruce Springsteen, the ride has never been just about the fame. It’s about staying true to the craft and to the fans who’ve followed him every step of the way.
Jamie Wells has a knack for getting the inside scoop on Hollywood’s biggest stars and up-and-coming talent. With a sharp eye for industry trends and an ear for viral moments, Jamie covers everything from red-carpet events to behind-the-scenes drama in movies, TV, and celebrity culture.
