About the song
“Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen is a seminal track in the rock genre, released on August 25, 1975, as the title song of his album “Born to Run.” This iconic song is widely regarded as one of Springsteen’s masterpieces and a defining moment in his career, both musically and culturally.
“Born to Run” is characterized by its anthemic quality and its rich, layered sound that includes powerful saxophone solos by Clarence Clemons, energetic guitar riffs, and Springsteen’s unmistakable gravelly voice. The song’s lyrical content is a poignant reflection of the desire to escape and find freedom, encapsulating the hopes and dreams of young Americans facing a challenging and uncertain future. Springsteen’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a restless pursuit of freedom, with imagery that conveys a sense of urgency and longing.
The meaning of the song is deeply rooted in themes of escape and liberation. It tells the story of a young couple yearning to break free from their mundane lives and seek something greater, a pursuit of personal freedom and a better life. The song’s refrain, “Tramps like us, baby we were born to run,” has become a rallying cry for those who feel constrained by their circumstances and are determined to seek something more.
“Born to Run” had a profound impact on society and music. Upon its release, it resonated with a wide audience, particularly young people who felt the song’s message spoke to their own aspirations and frustrations. The track helped establish Bruce Springsteen as a voice of the working class and a storyteller of American life. It became an anthem of rebellion and hope, capturing the zeitgeist of the mid-1970s and influencing countless artists who followed.
The album “Born to Run” itself was a critical and commercial success, and the title track played a significant role in cementing Springsteen’s reputation as a major rock artist. The album’s success marked a turning point in Springsteen’s career, leading to his widespread recognition and solidifying his place in the pantheon of rock legends.
Moreover, “Born to Run” has had a lasting influence on rock music and pop culture. It has been covered by numerous artists, featured in various films and TV shows, and continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest rock songs of all time. Its powerful narrative and uplifting energy have made it a timeless anthem for generations of listeners.
In summary, “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen is more than just a song; it’s a cultural milestone that captures the spirit of aspiration and the quest for freedom. Released in 1975, it remains a poignant and powerful anthem that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world.
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Lyrics
In the day we sweat it out on the streetsOf a runaway American dreamAt night we ride through the mansions of gloryIn suicide machinesSprung from cages on Highway 9Chrome wheeled, fuel injected, and steppin’ out over the lineOh, baby this town rips the bones from your backIt’s a death trap, it’s a suicide rapWe gotta get out while we’re young‘Cause tramps like us, baby, we were born to runYes, girl, we wereWendy, let me in, I wanna be your friendI wanna guard your dreams and visionsJust wrap your legs ’round these velvet rimsAnd strap your hands ‘cross my enginesTogether we could break this trapWe’ll run ’til we drop, baby, we’ll never go backOh, will you walk with me out on the wire?‘Cause, baby, I’m just a scared and lonely riderBut I gotta know how it feelsI want to know if love is wildBabe, I want to know if love is realOh, can you show meBeyond the Palace, hemi-powered dronesScream down the boulevardGirls comb their hair in rearview mirrorsAnd the boys try to look so hardThe amusement park rises bold and starkKids are huddled on the beach in the mistI wanna die with you, Wendy, on the street tonightIn an everlasting kissThe highway’s jammed with broken heroesOn a last chance power driveEverybody’s out on the run tonightBut there’s no place left to hideTogether, Wendy, we can live with the sadnessI’ll love you with all the madness in my soulOh, someday, girl, I don’t know whenWe’re gonna get to that placeWhere we really wanna go and we’ll walk in the sunBut ’til then, tramps like usBaby, we were born to runOh honey, tramps like usBaby, we were born to runCome on with me, tramps like usBaby, we were born to run