Springsteen, New Jersey continue to be overrated
Hilary Brady
Issue date: 2/4/09 Section: Editorial/Opinion
The antics almost detracted from what would have been a solid musical performance. The set list, highly debated before the show, worked well. "Born to Run" and "Glory Days" were sing-along songs that tipsy football fans across America could all appreciate.
The third song, "Working on a Dream," was from his new album of the same title. While it was clear he was there to promote the new CD, the half time show would have been better suited for a classic hit like "Born in the U.S.A." or "Dancing in the Dark." For older Springsteen fans, the exclusion of these beloved songs was baffling.
The Superbowl follows another serious misstep for New Jersey's beloved rock star. Long heralded as a hero for the working man, Springsteen just signed a deal to sell his greatest hits album exclusively with Wal-Mart-the rabidly anti-union company whose workers are frequently underpaid and, in lieu of being provided with better health care, are encouraged by their employer to apply for welfare.
Is this the type of company that Springsteen, a down-to-earth guy who sings about the plight of the underdog, wants to align himself with? Though he's publicly apologized, it still seems like the Boss has screwed up. Yes, I said it. I might need to have my New Jersey residency revoked.
The third song, "Working on a Dream," was from his new album of the same title. While it was clear he was there to promote the new CD, the half time show would have been better suited for a classic hit like "Born in the U.S.A." or "Dancing in the Dark." For older Springsteen fans, the exclusion of these beloved songs was baffling.
The Superbowl follows another serious misstep for New Jersey's beloved rock star. Long heralded as a hero for the working man, Springsteen just signed a deal to sell his greatest hits album exclusively with Wal-Mart-the rabidly anti-union company whose workers are frequently underpaid and, in lieu of being provided with better health care, are encouraged by their employer to apply for welfare.
Is this the type of company that Springsteen, a down-to-earth guy who sings about the plight of the underdog, wants to align himself with? Though he's publicly apologized, it still seems like the Boss has screwed up. Yes, I said it. I might need to have my New Jersey residency revoked.
