Bruce Springsteen is a legendary musician who has been making heartland rock music for over 40 years. Despite his ability to capture the essence of working-class Americans through his anthems and ballads, Springsteen’s rise to fame has been bumpy, with controversies surrounding his political views and ticket prices. In this article, we’ll explore five of these controversies that have damaged his career.
1. Music Evolved: From Personal To Political music
Springsteen’s earlier albums explored personal and emotional topics, but his later work shifted toward national and political issues. This change was particularly evident in “Darkness on the Edge of Town,” which marked a turning point in his career. Subsequent albums, including “The River,” “Nebraska,” and “Born in the U.S.A.,” showcased his growing political awareness and engagement.
2. Alienating Republican Fans
Springsteen’s involvement in politics began in the early 2000s when he campaigned for John Kerry’s presidential run against George W. Bush. This upset many Republican fans who believed that he should only focus on music and avoid politics. As a result, Springsteen’s political views have led to him losing some fans who do not share his beliefs.
3. Nepotism
In the wake of Clarence Clemons’ death, Springsteen was criticized for choosing his nephew, Jake Clemons, as his replacement in the E Street Band. Some fans saw this as nepotism. However, Jake has proven to be a talented musician in his own right and has filled his uncle’s shoes. Additionally, Springsteen’s wife, Patti Scialfa, has been known to sing backup vocals and play the tambourine for him, which has also been criticized as nepotism.
4. The Controversy Surrounding Ticketmaster and the High Cost of Tickets
Springsteen faced criticism for increasing ticket prices, with some selling for as much as $5,000. Although he defended himself by saying that he charged less than other artists, some fans were outraged and called for reform.
5. Criticism of Bruce Springsteen’s Song ‘I’m on Fire’
Despite his impact on music and society, Bruce Springsteen’s career has had its share of controversies. One of his popular songs, ‘I’m on Fire,’ has been criticized for its disturbing lyrics, with some interpreting them as inappropriate. Nonetheless, Springsteen’s music and message continue to inspire many, cementing his status as an iconic figure in the industry.