There is no doubt that Bruce Springsteen has contributed significantly to the music scene with his raspy and big baritone sound, long stage performances, and socially conscious lyrics reflecting working-class life. In addition, Springsteen has been nicknamed ‘The Boss‘ due to his position in the music business and the success he achieved throughout the years. Many musicians respect him, and he has a broad worldwide fanbase.
In May 2015, at the 11th annual MusiCares MAP Fund benefit concert in New York, Bruce Springsteen presented Pete Townshend with the Stevie Ray Vaughan Award. Before that, the musician gave a speech about Townshend and said he was the greatest rhythm guitarist and understood the dirty business of rock and roll. However, days before this event, Townshend had admitted that he had stopped being a fan of Springsteen.
The Reason Pete Townshend Stopped Being A Fan Of Bruce Springsteen
On May 7, 2015, days before the 11th annual MusiCares MAP Fund benefit concert on May 28, Pete Townshend joined Rolling Stone magazine for an interview. During the conversation, he revealed his honest opinions about various artists, including Bruce Springsteen. When he was asked whether he was a fan of The Boss or watched his shows, he admitted not following Springsteen anymore.
Townshend said he would watch Springsteen’s shows in the early days. However, the musician believed Springsteen’s latest shows had been ‘a bit of blood and glory.’ After the Who icon’s response, Rolling Stone’s Andy Greene asked him to elaborate on his remarks. Townshend then stressed that he said exactly what he implied. As it seems, Pete Townshend believed that Springsteen’s shows weren’t sincere as before.
Here is what Rolling Stone asked Townshend in the interview:
“Are you a fan of Bruce Springsteen? Do you ever check out his shows?”
Townshend responded:
“I did in the early days, but not anymore. It’s a bit of blood and glory for me now.”
The reporter asked:
“In what sense?”
Townshend then said:
“Exactly the sense that sentence implies.”
Despite Townshend’s controversial thoughts about him, Bruce Springsteen spoke well of Townshend at the MusiCares MAP Fund benefit concert. He stated that he grew up with the Who’s music and found himself in their songs. After that, Springsteen praised Townshend’s guitar-playing talent and thanked him for inspiring him.
