Bruce Springsteen and E Street Band Shine in Pittsburgh
On Sunday night, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band captivated audiences once again during their second performance at the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, following their initial show on August 15. Known for creating memorable moments during back-to-back concerts in the same city, the legendary New Jersey rock artist did not disappoint.
A Night of Music and Memories
The E Street Band, consisting of 18 talented musicians, showcased an electrifying performance that lasted over three hours. The set featured a total of 29 songs, showcasing a refreshing variety that distinguished it from previous shows this tour. Notably, the group paid tribute to a late colleague and included a surprise guest, adding to the evening’s emotional depth.
Returning with Exuberance
Following a nearly three-week break after their European tour, the band appeared rejuvenated and ready to deliver an exhilarating experience for fans. Springsteen, who had postponed earlier shows due to health issues, expressed gratitude to the audience, saying, “I hope we didn’t inconvenience you too much with our postponements. It’s just great to be back here.”
Setlist Highlights
The Pittsburgh show featured significant changes to the setlist, addressing prior criticism regarding repetitiveness. With nine different song selections—including seven new entries within the first nine songs—this performance felt particularly fresh. Notable tracks included:
- “Candy’s Room”
- “Spirit in the Night”
- “Death to My Hometown”
- “If I Was a Priest”
- “I’m on Fire”
Springsteen also opted not to exit the stage after “Thunder Road,” instead continuing with a robust encore featuring classics such as “Born to Run,” “Glory Days,” and “Dancing in the Dark.”
Special Guest Appearance
The night also saw the inclusion of Pittsburgh’s own Joe Grushecky, who joined the band during an encore performance of the Isley Brothers’ “Twist & Shout.” This collaboration added a local flavor to the concert and was greeted with enthusiasm by the audience.
Tributes and Community Spirit
A poignant moment came when Springsteen dedicated a song to the late journalist Charles Cross, honoring his contributions to the music community. “This is for a friend of ours, Charles Cross, the founder of Backstreets magazine,” Springsteen shared, raising his guitar in tribute.
Unique Fan Interactions
Springsteen’s generosity extended beyond the music. He engaged with young fans by gifting harmonicas and guitar picks throughout the concert, creating unforgettable moments for the audience. His ability to connect with attendees only heightened the concert’s impact.
Conclusion: Looking Ahead
This two-night stand in Pittsburgh marks a significant moment in the current North American tour, which will continue through November 22 in Vancouver. With additional European dates scheduled for next year, the future remains bright for fans hoping to witness more of Springsteen’s legendary performances. As guitarist Steven Van Zandt stated, “Just between you and me….I don’t see any end in sight.”