Bruce Springsteen, often hailed as “The Boss,” has a knack for weaving tales that resonate deeply with his audience. Among his vast discography, “Rosalita (Come Out Tonight)” stands as a towering monument to his storytelling abilities, capturing the youthful exuberance, romantic longing, and the raw energy of rock and roll.
Released in 1973 as part of his album The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Band, “Rosalita” is more than just a song; it’s a full-blown rock opera. Clocking in at over seven minutes, the track is a sprawling narrative that chronicles a forbidden love affair between the singer and the eponymous Rosalita. The song is punctuated by extended instrumental sections and call-and-response choruses, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation that builds throughout the track.
At its core, “Rosalita” is a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the American heartland. The song paints a vivid picture of small-town life, complete with high school dances, cruising in cars, and the dreams and aspirations of youth. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and memorable characters, creating a world that feels both familiar and timeless.
Springsteen’s vocals are full of passion and energy, conveying the intensity of the protagonist’s feelings for Rosalita. The backing band, The E Street Band, provides a driving, rhythmic foundation that propels the song forward. The interplay between Springsteen’s soulful vocals and the band’s powerful instrumentation creates a sense of excitement and urgency that is infectious.
“Rosalita” has become a staple of Springsteen’s live performances, often running upwards of 15 minutes. The song’s epic length and its ability to engage the audience have made it a fan favorite for decades. The extended jams and improvisations that often occur during live performances allow Springsteen and the band to explore different musical territories and create a unique experience for each audience.
Beyond its musical merits, “Rosalita” is also a testament to the enduring power of rock and roll. The song’s themes of youth, love, and rebellion continue to resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Springsteen or a newcomer to his music, “Rosalita” is a must-listen.
Spread out now Rosie, doctor come cut loose her mama’s reins You know playin’ blind man’s bluff is a little baby’s game You pick up little dynamite, I’ll pick up little gun And together we’re gonna go out tonight and make that highway run You don’t have to call me lieutenant, Rosie, and I don’t want to be your son The only lover I’m ever gonna need’s your soft, sweet, little girl’s tongue And Rosie, you’re the one
Dynamite’s in the belfry, baby, playin’ with the bats Little gun’s downtown in front of Woolworth’s tryin’ out his attitude on all the cats Papa’s on the corner, waitin’ for the bus Mama, she’s home in the window, waitin’ up for us She’ll be there in that chair when they wrestle her upstairs ‘Cause you know we ain’t gonna come I ain’t here on business, baby, I’m only here for fun And Rosie, you’re the one
Rosalita, jump a little higher Senorita, come sit by my fire I just want to be your lover, ain’t no liar Rosalita, you’re my stone desire
Jack the Rabbit and Weak Knee Willie, don’t you know they’re gonna be there Ah Sloppy Sue and Big Bone Billy, they’ll be coming up for air We’re gonna play some pool, skip some school Act real cool, stay out all night, it’s gonna feel alright So Rosie, come out tonight, little baby, come out tonight Windows are for cheaters, chimneys for the poor Oh, closets are for hangers, winners use the door So use it, Rosie, that’s what it’s there for
Rosalita, jump a little higher Senorita, come sit by my fire I just want to be your lover, ain’t no liar Rosalita, you’re my stone desire, alright
Now, I know your mama, she don’t like me, ’cause I play in a rock and roll band And I know your daddy, he don’t dig me, but he never did understand Your papa lowered the boom, he locked you in your room, I’m comin’ to lend a hand I’m comin’ to liberate you, confiscate you, I want to be your man Someday we’ll look back on this and it will all seem funny But now you’re sad, your mama’s mad And your papa says he knows that I don’t have any money Oh, your papa says he knows that I don’t have any money Oh, so your daddy says he knows that I don’t have any money Well, tell him this is his last chance to get his daughter in a fine romance Because a record company, Rosie, just gave me a big advance
And my tires were slashed and I almost crashed, but the Lord had mercy And my machine, she’s a dud, out stuck in the mud somewhere in the swamps of Jersey Well, hold on tight, stay up all night, ’cause Rosie, I’m comin’ on strong By the time we meet the morning light, I will hold you in my arms I know a pretty little place in Southern California, down San Diego way There’s a little cafe, where they play guitars all night and all day You can hear them in the back room strummin’ So hold tight, baby, ’cause don’t you know daddy’s comin’ Everybody sing
Rosalita, jump a little higher Senorita, come sit by my fire I just want to be your lover, ain’t no liar Rosalita, you’re my stone desire
