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In 1964, Bruce Springsteen fell in love with Motown. Now, he still thinks it’s all you need to play music
Bruce Springsteen says Motown shaped his musical education and remains a model for writing and performing. Its influence matters because he learnt from the label’s craft and work ethic, while combining its memorable hooks with stories rooted in his New Jersey life.
Springsteen has said Motown taught him how to write and structure successful pop songs, build a band’s sound and make the most of a great singer. He admired the label’s disciplined hit-making, as well as its capacity for ambitious work, citing Marvin Gaye’s *What’s Going On* and Stevie Wonder’s *Innervisions*. Rather than copy Motown’s sound, he drew on its lessons in songs such as “Jungleland”.
In short
- Motown was a major influence on Springsteen’s musical craft.
- He learnt about pop songwriting, bands and singers from the label.
- He paired its hooks with stories grounded in New Jersey.
Explained simply
Motown was a Detroit record label that became known for popular soul and pop music in the 1960s. Its artists included Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and groups such as the Supremes; the label developed a distinctive sound built around strong melodies, polished arrangements and skilled performers.
Bruce Springsteen is an American singer and songwriter who grew up in New Jersey. His songs often pair energetic rock music with stories about people and places in his home state. Motown’s influence helps explain how he combines memorable tunes with detailed storytelling, while making music in his own style.