About the song
“Dancing in the Dark,” one of Bruce Springsteen’s most iconic songs, holds a special place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. Released on May 4, 1984, as the lead single from his critically acclaimed album “Born in the U.S.A.,” this song showcases Springsteen’s masterful songwriting and dynamic stage presence.
Written by Bruce Springsteen himself, “Dancing in the Dark” came to life during a period of intense pressure and creative demand. Springsteen was urged to produce a hit single to ensure the commercial success of the album. Rising to the challenge, he crafted a song that not only achieved massive success but also captured the zeitgeist of the 1980s with its themes of frustration, desire for change, and the search for meaning.
The song’s infectious rhythm and relatable lyrics propelled it to the top of the charts. “Dancing in the Dark” peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remained there for four weeks, only kept from the number one spot by Prince’s “When Doves Cry.” The song also garnered widespread international success, charting in the top ten in multiple countries including the UK, Canada, and Australia.
“Dancing in the Dark” features a distinctive synthesizer riff, a departure from Springsteen’s usual rock sound, highlighting his ability to innovate while staying true to his roots. The accompanying music video, directed by Brian De Palma, became iconic in its own right. Filmed during a live performance, it famously features a young Courteney Cox being pulled on stage to dance with Springsteen, a moment that has been etched into pop culture history.
The album “Born in the U.S.A.” itself was a monumental success, becoming one of the best-selling albums of all time. It solidified Springsteen’s status as a global rock icon and was celebrated for its exploration of American life, resonating deeply with listeners across the globe.
“Dancing in the Dark” remains a beloved anthem, reflecting both the spirit of its time and the timeless appeal of Bruce Springsteen’s music. Its legacy endures, continually inspiring fans with its energy and poignant message.
Video
Lyrics
I get up in the evenin’
And I ain’t got nothin’ to say
I come home in the mornin’
I go to bed feelin’ the same way
I ain’t nothin’ but tired
Man, I’m just tired and bored with myself
Hey there, baby, I could use just a little help
You can’t start a fire
You can’t start a fire without a spark
This gun’s for hire
Even if we’re just dancin’ in the dark
Messages keeps gettin’ clearer
Radio’s on and I’m movin’ ’round my place
I check my look in the mirror
Wanna change my clothes, my hair, my face
Man, I ain’t gettin’ nowhere
I’m just livin’ in a dump like this
There’s somethin’ happenin’ somewhere
Baby, I just know that there is
You can’t start a fire
You can’t start a fire without a spark
This gun’s for hire
Even if we’re just dancin’ in the dark
You sit around gettin’ older
There’s a joke here somewhere and it’s on me
I’ll shake this world off my shoulders
Come on, baby, the laugh’s on me
Stay on the streets of this town
And they’ll be carvin’ you up alright
They say you gotta stay hungry
Hey baby, I’m just about starvin’ tonight
I’m dyin’ for some action
I’m sick of sittin’ ’round here tryin’ to write this book
I need a love reaction
Come on now, baby, gimme just one look
You can’t start a fire
Sittin’ ’round cryin’ over a broken heart
This gun’s for hire
Even if we’re just dancin’ in the dark
You can’t start a fire
Worryin’ about your little world fallin’ apart
This gun’s for hire
Even if we’re just dancin’ in the dark
Even if we’re just dancin’ in the dark
Even if we’re just dancin’ in the dark
Even if we’re just dancin’ in the dark
Hey baby