About the song
“Born to Run,” a song by Bruce Springsteen, is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock anthems of all time. Released on August 25, 1975, it is the title track of Springsteen’s third studio album, which catapulted him to international fame and solidified his reputation as one of America’s most important rock artists. Written by Springsteen himself, “Born to Run” embodies the essence of youthful rebellion, yearning for freedom, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
The creation of “Born to Run” was a meticulous process for Springsteen, who spent six months perfecting the song’s intricate sound and evocative lyrics. He aimed to craft a “movie in music,” blending elements of rock, pop, and R&B to create a symphonic rock sound that was both expansive and intimate. The song features powerful instrumentation, including Clarence Clemons’ iconic saxophone solo, which adds to its soaring, anthemic quality.
Lyrically, “Born to Run” tells the story of a young couple desperate to escape their mundane lives and seek something greater. Lines like “Tramps like us, baby we were born to run” resonate with the universal desire for liberation and adventure. The song’s vivid imagery and emotional depth have made it an enduring classic that continues to inspire listeners across generations.
Upon its release, “Born to Run” achieved significant commercial success and critical acclaim. It peaked at number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and its parent album reached number 3 on the Billboard 200. The song and album received widespread praise for their bold sound and Springsteen’s storytelling prowess, cementing his place in the pantheon of rock music.
“Born to Run” has become a staple of Springsteen’s live performances, often serving as a climactic moment in his concerts. Its explosive energy and hopeful message never fail to ignite audiences, creating a shared sense of exhilaration and connection. The song’s influence extends beyond the music world, having been featured in films, television shows, and even political campaigns, symbolizing resilience and aspiration.
The album “Born to Run” itself is a masterpiece, often cited as one of the greatest albums in rock history. It marked a turning point in Springsteen’s career, showcasing his ability to blend profound lyrical narratives with grand, cinematic music. Tracks like “Thunder Road” and “Jungleland” further demonstrate the album’s thematic coherence and emotional intensity.
Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” remains a timeless anthem of hope, freedom, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Its legacy is a testament to Springsteen’s genius as a songwriter and performer, and its powerful message continues to resonate with fans around the world.
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Lyrics
In the day we sweat it out on the streets
Of a runaway American dream
At night we ride through the mansions of glory
In suicide machines
Sprung from cages on Highway 9
Chrome wheeled, fuel injected, and steppin’ out over the line
Oh, baby this town rips the bones from your back
It’s a death trap, it’s a suicide rap
We gotta get out while we’re young
‘Cause tramps like us, baby, we were born to run
Yes, girl, we were
Wendy, let me in, I wanna be your friend
I wanna guard your dreams and visions
Just wrap your legs ’round these velvet rims
And strap your hands ‘cross my engines
Together we could break this trap
We’ll run ’til we drop, baby, we’ll never go back
Oh, will you walk with me out on the wire?
‘Cause, baby, I’m just a scared and lonely rider
But I gotta know how it feels
I want to know if love is wild
Babe, I want to know if love is real
Oh, can you show me
Beyond the Palace, hemi-powered drones
Scream down the boulevard
Girls comb their hair in rearview mirrors
And the boys try to look so hard
The amusement park rises bold and stark
Kids are huddled on the beach in the mist
I wanna die with you, Wendy, on the street tonight
In an everlasting kiss
The highway’s jammed with broken heroes
On a last chance power drive
Everybody’s out on the run tonight
But there’s no place left to hide
Together, Wendy, we can live with the sadness
I’ll love you with all the madness in my soul
Oh, someday, girl, I don’t know when
We’re gonna get to that place
Where we really wanna go and we’ll walk in the sun
But ’til then, tramps like us
Baby, we were born to run
Oh honey, tramps like us
Baby, we were born to run
Come on with me, tramps like us
Baby, we were born to run