Bruce Springsteen - Bobby Jean Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is Bobby Jean in the song?

   Bobby Jean is a character whose name's gender ambiguity allows for various interpretations. Many believe the song is about Bruce Springsteen's long-time friendship with guitarist Steven Van Zandt, who left the E Street Band during the recording of 'Born In The U.S.A.'

2. Was 'Bobby Jean' inspired by any real-life events?

   'Bobby Jean' was written as a farewell to Steven Van Zandt, who left the E Street Band to pursue other projects. The song reflects on themes of friendship and departure, capturing Springsteen's emotions during that period.

3. How has 'Bobby Jean' been received in live performances?

   'Bobby Jean' has become one of Bruce Springsteen's popular concert staples, performed approximately 688 times through 2023. It often receives loud audience responses and features prominently in setlists during various tours, including the Born in the U.S.A. Tour and the Magic Tour.

4. What musical elements make 'Bobby Jean' unique?

   'Bobby Jean' features an accented rhythm and near dance groove that marked a musical breakthrough for Springsteen. The song concludes with Roy Bittan's piano riff yielding to a saxophone coda from Clarence Clemons, adding emotional depth to its farewell theme.

5. Has 'Bobby Jean' appeared in any notable collaborations or covers?

   'Bobby Jean' was performed by Bruce Springsteen with Phish during their closing set at the 2009 Bonnaroo Music Festival. Additionally, Eddie Vedder from Pearl Jam joined Springsteen for a performance of the song on March 24, 2016, in Seattle.

6. What are some notable adaptations or references to 'Bobby Jean' in popular culture?

   'Bobby Jean' was referenced in Nick Hornby's book High Fidelity and its subsequent film adaptation starring John Cusack. Although the song itself isn't named in the film, Bruce Springsteen appears in a dream sequence echoing lines from it.