In 1971, Bruce Springsteen and an early version of the E Street Band supported Humble Pie at the Sunshine venue in Asbury Park, New Jersey. Their performance reportedly captivated the audience so completely that Humble Pie’s set was delayed, highlighting Springsteen’s formidable stage presence before he had fully developed his distinctive musical style.

The band included future E Street Band members such as Steven Van Zandt, David Sancious, Vini Lopez and Garry Tallent. Saxophonist Howard Feigenbaum recalled that the audience did not want them to leave, while Peter Frampton later encouraged Springsteen to sign with Columbia Records; Springsteen released his debut album there the following year.