In 1966, Bruce Springsteen found his “partner in crime forever”. His life was never the same
Bruce Springsteen has described meeting guitarist and singer Stevie Van Zandt in 1966 as a turning point in his life, calling him his “rock and roll partner in crime forever”. Their friendship and musical understanding helped shape Springsteen’s sound and the identity of the E Street Band.
They met at the Hulaballoo Club in Middletown, New Jersey, where Springsteen heard Van Zandt sing “Happy Together”. The pair soon travelled to Greenwich Village, sharing their enthusiasm for rock music; Van Zandt later helped build out Springsteen’s recordings with his guitar work and musical judgement. The article also highlights contributions from other band members, including saxophonist Clarence Clemons, drummer Max Weinberg and pianist Roy Bittan.
- Springsteen says meeting Van Zandt in 1966 changed his world.
- The pair bonded over music and became close friends.
- Van Zandt helped shape the sound and spirit of the E Street Band.