About the song
“Glory Days,” a lively and nostalgic song by Bruce Springsteen, captures the bittersweet nature of reminiscing about the past. Released in 1985 as the fifth single from his critically acclaimed album “Born in the U.S.A.,” the song is both a celebration and a reflection on the fleeting nature of youthful triumphs. Written by Springsteen, “Glory Days” is known for its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and the vivid storytelling that has become a hallmark of his music.
The lyrics of “Glory Days” are rich with Springsteen’s signature narrative style, recounting encounters with old friends who share stories of their glory days in high school and beyond. The song opens with a memorable verse about a chance meeting with an old friend who was once a baseball star, now looking back fondly on his past. Springsteen’s lyrics are both humorous and poignant, capturing the universal experience of looking back on one’s life with a mix of pride and melancholy.
Musically, “Glory Days” features a driving rock rhythm, complete with a prominent organ riff and Clarence Clemons’ saxophone, which adds a jubilant and nostalgic feel to the track. The song’s energetic arrangement and infectious chorus make it one of the standout tracks on the “Born in the U.S.A.” album, a record that is filled with anthems addressing the complexities of American life.
“Glory Days” was a commercial success, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of the many hits from the “Born in the U.S.A.” album. The album itself is one of Springsteen’s most successful, selling over 30 million copies worldwide and solidifying his status as a global rock icon. The song’s popularity is further evidenced by its frequent inclusion in Springsteen’s live performances, where it continues to be a crowd favorite.
The music video for “Glory Days,” directed by John Sayles, features Springsteen and his band performing in a bar, interspersed with scenes of a Little League baseball game. The video’s casual, fun atmosphere complements the song’s theme of looking back on the past with a sense of enjoyment and camaraderie.
In live concerts, “Glory Days” often serves as a high-energy moment that engages the audience and encourages sing-alongs, reflecting the communal spirit of Springsteen’s shows. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to resonate with listeners who have their own stories of past triumphs and cherished memories.
Bruce Springsteen’s “Glory Days” remains a beloved anthem that celebrates the joy of reminiscing while acknowledging the passage of time. It stands as a testament to Springsteen’s talent for creating music that speaks to the human experience, blending heartfelt lyrics with irresistible melodies.
Video
Lyrics
I had a friend was a big baseball player
Back in high school
He could throw that speedball by you
Make you look like a fool boy
Saw him the other night at this roadside bar
I was walking in, he was walking out
We went back inside sat down had a few drinks
But all he kept talking about wasGlory days, well they’ll pass you by
Glory days, in the wink of a young girl’s eye
Glory days, glory daysWell there’s a girl that lives up the block
Back in school she could turn all the boy’s heads
Sometimes on a Friday I’ll stop by
And have a few drinks after she put her kids to bed
Her and her husband Bobby well they split up
I guess it’s two years gone by now
We just sit around talking about the old times
She says when she feels like crying
She starts laughing thinking boutGlory days, well they’ll pass you by
Glory days, in the wink of a young girl’s eye
Glory days, glory daysMy old man worked 20 years on the line
And they let him go
Now everywhere he goes out looking for work
They just tell him that he’s too old
I was 9 nine years old and he was working at the
Metuchen Ford plant assembly line
Now he just sits on a stool down at the Legion hall
But I can tell what’s on his mindGlory days yeah goin back
Glory days aw he ain’t never had
Glory days, glory daysIn fact I think I’m going down to the well tonight
And I’m gonna drink till I get my fill
And I hope when I get old I don’t sit around thinking about it
But I probably will
Yeah, just sitting back trying to recapture
A little of the glory yeah
Well time slips away and leaves you with nothing, mister, but
Boring stories ofGlory days, well they’ll pass you by
Glory days, in the wink of a young girl’s eye
Glory days, glory days