Starting with a recollection from the past, in 1988, during my rock ‘n’ roll writing days, I ventured to Long Island to witness Bruce Springsteen’s performance at the Nassau Coliseum. Accompanied by fellow Rolling Stone writer Mikal Gilmore, we occupied the front row of the risers on one side of the stage. As Bruce caught sight of us amidst the encores, he acknowledged us with a small wave, having recently spent time with both of us for interviews. Returning to the microphone, he boisterously exclaimed, “This one’s for all the aging rock critics out there!” before launching into the familiar strains of his tribute to fleeting moments, “Glory Days.”
At that juncture, I was merely 33 years old, with Mikal a few years my senior. While technically meeting the criteria of aging rock critics due to the passage of time, the term “aging” seemed a tad exaggerated. Fast forward 36 years, the memory of that night resurfaced as I found myself at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, observing a 74-year-old Springsteen electrify the audience with the same iconic tune.
Thus, a playful nod to Bruce: “This one’s for all the aging rock stars out there!”
Nevertheless, aging gracefully as a rock star can indeed be a mesmerizing spectacle. Reflecting on Springsteen’s recent performances at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles in early April prompted contemplation on a recurring theme in my concert experiences – witnessing seasoned artists not merely deliver their hits but delve into themes of loss and maturity.
Upon encountering a Washington Post op-ed piece in late March, I anticipated a shared sentiment. However, the piece, authored by a conservative pundit known for political commentary, disappointingly cataloged over 130 acts without offering any profound insights.
The essence of attending concerts featuring musical legends lies in embracing the evolving journey shared by both the artists and their fans over the decades. These experiences hold value when artists acknowledge the transformative passage of time, weaving narratives of wisdom and experience into their performances.
For instance, Laurie Anderson’s poignant rendition of “Junior Dad” at the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Los Angeles exemplified a profound reinterpretation of a Metallica track in homage to her late husband, Lou Reed. Similarly, Peter Gabriel’s recent visually captivating shows centered on themes of loss and mortality, emphasizing the significance of embracing life’s transient nature.
Bob Dylan’s introspective performances from his album “Rough and Rowdy Ways” and Tom Jones’ poignant renditions from “Surrounded by Time” showcased a poignant reflection on life’s journey, accentuating the resonance of music with memories and the passage of time.
Springsteen’s concerts at the Forum, while exuberant and celebratory, also delved into themes of remembrance and resilience. Tracks like “Ghosts” and “Wrecking Ball” encapsulated a profound acknowledgment of what endures amidst life’s inevitable transitions. Through poignant tributes and reflective moments, Springsteen masterfully intertwined themes of loss and legacy into his rock ‘n’ roll narrative.
In a poignant gesture during his performance, Springsteen invoked the memories of departed band members, infusing his set with a sense of collective remembrance and celebration. Each song became a vessel for introspection, encapsulating the bittersweet essence of nostalgia and growth.
In essence, Springsteen’s concerts, much like the performances of Anderson, Gabriel, Dylan, and Jones, serve as poignant reflections on life’s complexities and the enduring power of music to transcend time. As the years advance, witnessing these iconic performers navigate the intricacies of aging and loss becomes a profound testament to the enduring magic of music.