Weekend Edition Highlights: Unraveling the Creation of Springsteen's "Born to Run" Album; Shedding Light on the Mysteries of Insomnia
In the world of music, the creation of an iconic album can be a transformative experience for an artist. Such was the case for Bruce Springsteen and his 1975 masterpiece, Born to Run, as detailed in Peter Ames Carlin's new book, Tonight in Jungleland. This album marked an existential and high-stakes process for Springsteen, a period of intense pressure and perseverance[1][3].
One major challenge was convincing Columbia Records to back the album, particularly the title track "Born to Run." Initially, the label was sceptical about the song's potential. Springsteen's then-manager Mike Appel had to bring a tape of the track to Columbia executive Steve Popovich, who was an early supporter. However, Popovich was distracted with multiple phone calls during the listening and gave lukewarm feedback, saying he liked the riff but hadn't fully absorbed the rest[1].
Undeterred, Appel and Springsteen continued to refine the song themselves before returning with new suggestions. Springsteen wrote the lyrics instinctively, focusing on lines that felt right emotionally rather than over-polishing[1].
Carlin’s narrative reveals the behind-the-scenes tension and determination involved in shaping what became one of rock's most iconic records. The making of Born to Run was not just a musical endeavor but a pivotal moment of artistic breakthrough and personal risk for Springsteen[2][3].
Meanwhile, in the realm of journalism, Jennifer Senior, a renowned writer for The Atlantic, has been grappling with a different challenge: insomnia. In her latest piece for the magazine, she discusses not only the commonality of this sleep disorder but also the newest research into its causes and treatments[4].
Senior has struggled with insomnia for 25 years, and her piece provides a personal account of her futile attempts to fall asleep[4]. She delves into the latest findings, such as the role of technology and stress in exacerbating insomnia, and offers practical advice for those suffering from the condition[4].
Interestingly, Springsteen's career was also on the brink before the release of Born to Run. His record label was on the verge of dropping him, but the success of the album saved his career[5].
In the second season of the popular TV show Wednesday, Catherine Zeta-Jones takes on an expanded role as Morticia Addams. The season focuses on complex mother-daughter dynamics, with an emphasis on Zeta-Jones' character[6]. Additionally, the second season features a host of eccentric new characters[6].
In summary, Tonight in Jungleland portrays the album's creation as a fraught yet inspired journey driven by Springsteen's emotional commitment and a struggle to win industry support, resulting in a defining work of his career[1][3]. Meanwhile, Jennifer Senior's latest piece in The Atlantic sheds light on the common struggles with insomnia, offering insights into the latest research and practical advice for those affected[4].
- In the world of entertainment, the second season of Wednesday introduces a host of new characters and explores complex mother-daughter dynamics, reprised by Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams.
- Jennifer Senior, a health-and-wellness journalist at The Atlantic, delves into the latest scientific research on insomnia, sharing her personal struggle and offering practical advice for those battling sleep disorders.
- Amidst the creation of his iconic album Born to Run, Bruce Springsteen faced an ESG (existential and high-stakes) battle to persuade record executives, driven by his emotional lyrics and determination.
