Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band recently wowed audiences during their second concert in Pittsburgh at the PPG Paints Arena, part of their North American tour. Following an earlier performance in the same city, the band maintained their reputation for creating special moments and delivered a high-energy show that lasted over three hours, featuring 29 songs.
The Pittsburgh concert served as a continuation of their tour after a break during which Springsteen had addressed health issues, including the postponement of earlier shows due to his peptic ulcer. The band appeared well-rested and vibrant after almost three weeks off from touring in Europe. Springsteen addressed the crowd warmly, expressing gratitude for their support and ended the night with a poignant acoustic rendition of “I’ll See You in My Dreams.”
This tour will see Springsteen perform multiple shows in cities like Philadelphia and Toronto, with a grand finale set for Vancouver on November 22. Beyond this, there are plans for additional performances across Europe in 2024. During the Pittsburgh show, fans appreciated the diversity in the setlist, with nine different songs performed that had not been featured in previous concerts, including selections from the album “Darkness on the Edge of Town.”
Band member Steven Van Zandt added to the excitement surrounding the tour by indicating that the group has no plans to retire anytime soon, dismissing the idea of a farewell tour. The positive energy and dedication exhibited by Springsteen and his band suggests that fans can look forward to many more memorable performances in the future.During a recent performance, Bruce Springsteen delivered a vibrant and engaging show that included several fan-favorite songs and special moments. The highlight of the night was the lively rendition of “Spirit in the Night,” where Springsteen and saxophonist Jake Clemons entertained the crowd with their energetic antics. The setlist featured varied performances, including a sharp nod to Pittsburgh’s Rust Belt history with “Death to My Hometown” and a surprise rendition of “I’m on Fire.”
Springsteen kept the audience engaged by skipping the traditional encore break after “Thunder Road,” launching directly into a series of classic tracks such as “Born to Run” and “Glory Days.” Notably, Pittsburgh rocker Joe Grushecky joined Springsteen on stage during the encore, participating in a rendition of the Isley Brothers’ “Twist and Shout.” Their playful banter added to the evening’s charm, highlighting the strong bond between the two musicians.
During the concert, Springsteen honored the late journalist Charles Cross, dedicating a song to him and reflecting on his impact on the music community. This tribute resonated with fans, demonstrating the connection between the artist and his audience.
Springsteen’s generosity extended beyond music; he gifted harmonicas to several young fans in attendance, showcasing his approachable persona. Musically, he shared the spotlight, allowing band members like Steven Van Zandt and Nils Lofgren to shine during guitar solos throughout the set.
In a poignant moment, Springsteen addressed the themes of loss and memory during his speech before “Last Man Standing,” sharing reflections on friendship and the inevitability of mortality. The show integrated songs from a wide range of his discography, performing selections from 11 of his 21 albums and including a cover of the Commodores’ “Night Shift.”
Overall, the performance was marked by a blend of nostalgia, celebration, and heartfelt moments, exemplifying Springsteen’s enduring connection with his audience.