Bruce Springsteen on Documentary ‘Road Diary,’ Responding to Trump

Bruce Springsteen has always been known for his incredible live performances with the E Street Band, but the idea of documenting these shows through film was once something he was strongly against. In a recent interview on Variety’s Awards Circuit Podcast, Springsteen admitted that he used to be “very superstitious” about filming the band, fearing that it might alter the magic of their performances.

However, in recent years, the rock icon has had a change of heart. Directed by longtime collaborator Thom Zimny, the documentary “Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band” is now streaming on Hulu and Disney+ and features a treasure trove of archival footage, including a rare 1975 show at London’s Hammersmith Apollo.

The film captures the essence of Springsteen’s 2023-2025 world tour, which was marked by a sense of introspection and reflection on themes of aging, friendship, and mortality. Springsteen explains that he came into the tour with a clear vision of what he wanted to convey through his music, resulting in a setlist that was initially quite rigid but evolved over time.

One unexpected highlight of the tour was Springsteen’s cover of the Commodores’ “Nightshift,” a song that holds special significance for him. The film also pays tribute to late E Street Band members Clarence Clemons and Danny Federici, showcasing old interviews and performances to honor their legacy.

While the documentary captures many poignant moments from the tour, it does not address a health scare that forced Springsteen to postpone several dates in 2023 due to a peptic ulcer disease diagnosis. Reflecting on this period, Springsteen shares that he enjoyed the time off but felt disappointed about letting down his fans.

Looking ahead, a biopic titled “Deliver Me From Nowhere” will see actor Jeremy Allen White portraying Springsteen during the making of his iconic 1982 album “Nebraska.” The film, based on Warren Zanes’ book and directed by Scott Cooper, focuses on a pivotal time in Springsteen’s life and career.

Springsteen expresses excitement about the project and praises White’s performance as capturing the essence of his persona during that era. Despite being on tour for much of the filming, Springsteen was involved in the project and is eager to see the final result.

As “Road Diary” continues to resonate with fans and critics alike, it serves as a testament to Springsteen’s evolution as an artist and his willingness to embrace the power of storytelling through film. The documentary offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of one of rock music’s most enduring legends and cements Springsteen’s status as a cultural icon for generations to come. Bruce Springsteen recently reflected on his nostalgic visit to his grandmother’s house, expressing his enjoyment of seeing it again and reminiscing about his childhood memories. The rock star also made headlines on social media for catching a flying basketball at a Los Angeles Lakers game, showcasing his quick reflexes and sense of humor.

Looking ahead, Springsteen and his band are gearing up for a series of tour dates in Europe and Canada starting in May. When asked about the possibility of releasing another live box set documenting his recent tours, he mentioned the accessibility of live recordings for fans and the potential for a live album in the future.

In light of the current state of the country and the role of music in responding to societal issues, Springsteen emphasized the importance of artists in making sense of the world around them. He acknowledged the responsibility of artists to reflect on the current times and express their perspectives through their work, hinting that this theme may be present in the upcoming leg of his tour.

As Springsteen continues to captivate audiences with his music and storytelling, fans can expect a blend of nostalgia, social commentary, and raw energy in his future performances. Stay tuned for more updates on Springsteen’s musical journey and the impact of his artistry on the world around us.