In 1978, while I was working at the New York Daily News as a studio intern, the paper was shut down for 88 days due to a strike. I was out on the road, hungry for work, wanting to shoot anything, for anyone. Danny Farrell, my mentor at the News, offered me $50 a picture to work for him at a makeshift paper called The City News. It was exhilarating. From running a Versamat film processor inside, to being out on the road as a photographer.
My highlight of the summer? Covering Bruce Springsteen at Madison Square Garden. Pushing Tri-X hard in the Garden’s cavernous arena, moving and shooting as The Boss screamed.
Never thought last week would be the experience of hearing a Springsteen concert… not a cover. It was a Friday night in Philly, a warm, sunny summer night. At 74, he sang and played with the E Street Band for three and a half hours, without a break. It started right on time. Around three, he called out to the audience, “Anyone tired? Do you think you can outlast the E Street Band?” And then he kept going for another half hour. It was amazing. He mocked how people are so quick to label something a “farewell tour.” He laughed at it.
This time, no cameras, no sweat and despair, just listening and remembering. Bruce’s songs are mostly about life and memories, ups and downs, and sometimes the long haul. Adhering to the no-camera policy, the fast shooting, lighting and staging have come a long way since the 70s!
Still singing, still performing, still speaking to us all. Talented, resilient, hard-working and dedicated. A remarkable and inspiring legacy.
Thereto….
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