A special relationship
I perfectly remember the headline of La Vanguardia on May 11, 1993: ‘The American friend returns to Barcelona’. It was the announcement of Bruce Springsteen’s first concert at the Olympic Stadium, after his performances at the Palau d’Esports de Montjuïc (1981), the Camp Nou (1988) and the Monumental (1992). That year, the relationship between Springsteen and Barcelona was already strong and the city’s fans became a unique community. Neither London, nor Berlin, nor Milan, nor even Madrid can equal the magic that is created between the artist and the city of Barcelona. Those who have followed him elsewhere confirm this.
A love that is born
The relationship between Barcelona and Bruce Springsteen began on April 21, 1981, at the Palau d’Esports in Carrer Lleida, during the presentation tour of the album ‘The River’. At that time, Barcelona was a gray city, affected by the events of 23-F and overshadowed by the Madrid Movement. But the three intense hours of Springsteen’s concert were a ray of light in the darkness. The music magazine Disco Actualidad described the concert as ‘the best rock concert ever seen in Spain’. Since then, the connection between Bruce and Barcelona has been special.
A lasting friendship
Since his first visit, Bruce Springsteen has always returned to Barcelona as a friend. He has chosen the city as the starting point or farewell of his European tours, giving it a special prominence. In 2002, he recorded his video ‘Live in Barcelona’ at the Palau Sant Jordi, which became one of the best musical recordings of the century. In addition, Springsteen has shown his affection for the Catalan public by speaking in Catalan during his concerts and hanging a Catalan flag on stage. These displays of affection have made many football fans and other well-known personalities choose the concerts in Barcelona as their destination.
A single connection
The connection between Bruce Springsteen and his audience in Barcelona is bidirectional. Catalan fans, as well as fans from all over the State and from all over Europe, sing their songs with passion and become part of the show. The fan club in Barcelona, The Stone Pony, is one of the most legendary and has organized numerous initiatives to seduce the artist. The relationship between Springsteen and Barcelona is unique and has contributed to raising the city’s self-esteem.
A real man
Bruce Springsteen is an honest, approachable, cool and humble man. He has always been committed to Democratic Party candidates and loyal to his fans. His ability to read the audience and adapt to their reactions is impressive. After playing the first songs at a concert in Barcelona in 1981, he said: ‘From now on I carry you in my heart’. This phrase sums up his relationship with the city and its fans.