Springsteen and Me

I'm going to see Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band in concert tomorrow night at Philly. It's the third stop on the band's "Magic" tour.

Although the sound of Bruce's new album is upbeat and definitely a return to good Rock and Roll -- not that I disliked "Devils & Dust" or the "Seeger Sessions"; in fact, I enjoyed both albums -- many of the "Magic" lyrics contain political and social messages.

Since Springsteen's political beliefs and mine appear to be quite different -- e.g. I sat out the Vote For Change Tour, Bruce did not -- it might be surprising that I still pay to purchase Springsteen's albums and see him in person.

But you see, I got into Springsteen's music when he largely sang about girls, cars, the beach and friendships. He hailed from the Jersey Shore (me from Staten Island, N.Y.) and played good hard rock.

Through the years, Bruce and I have grown. Grown apart in some ways, sure, but also we've endured our respective lives and experiences.

While I believe some of Bruce's messages and frustrations are, at times, a bit misguided, I still enjoy good music ... make that GREAT music, and getting my money's worth.

Tomorrow night, I expect to get both.

Even if Bruce would prefer that I get the message instead.