Bruce Springsteen: Two years without a new song, but the show goes on

Bruce Springsteen recently provided an update on his music, admitting he hasn't written a new song in two years. Despite this creative pause, the rock legend remains active, with his most recent album, Only The Strong Survive, released in 2022. Unlike his previous original work, this 21st studio album features covers of Soul and R&B classics (such as the Commodore's song "Nightshift"), showcasing his deep appreciation for the genres that shaped him.

Since then, working class billionaire Springsteen, also known as "The Boss," has been heavily focused on his live performances. Over the past two years, he has embarked on an extensive tour schedule, playing numerous dates worldwide. However, his rigorous schedule was briefly interrupted due to health issues that led to several canceled shows last year (Neil Young's tour faced similar issues).

The setbacks didn’t slow him down for long, as he quickly returned to the stage, bringing his signature energy to his audiences. Notably, Springsteen recently became the first international artist to receive the esteemed Fellow of the Ivors Academy honor, a recognition that highlights his influence on global music and songwriting. This award is just one in a long line of achievements marking his five-decade career.

He also has a new documentary, Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, that premiered on Disney+ and Hulu on October 25, 2024.

What Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band says about songwriting

Directed by longtime collaborator Thom Zimny, the documentary offers an intimate look at the making of Springsteen and the E Street Band’s legendary live performances, exploring the dedication and collaboration behind their unforgettable shows. In the documentary, Springsteen discusses his current approach to songwriting. He admits that songs don’t always come easily, revealing that "songs don’t come that often" and that he can go years without writing new material, even in his free time.

This statement underscores a stark contrast to his creative process for previous albums. For instance, Letter To You — his 2020 album and a tribute to his late bandmate George Theiss — was written within just two weeks, highlighting how inspiration can strike in unexpected ways.

While Springsteen acknowledges his current songwriting drought, in one interview even calling it "pure torture," he remains passionate about performing.

He’s assured fans that, although new songs may not be on the horizon, his love for touring endures, and he has no plans to stop sharing his music on stage.