Fresh Air Best Of: Making 'Born To Run' / Why We Can't Sleep
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Aug 9, 2025 Peter Ames Carlin, a celebrated author known for his works on Bruce Springsteen, dives into the behind-the-scenes magic of 'Born to Run,' exploring its creation and the personal struggles Springsteen faced. Meanwhile, Jennifer Senior, a Staff writer at The Atlantic, discusses the alarming rise of insomnia in America, sharing insights into its psychological effects and the societal implications of sleeplessness. Together, they unravel the connections between music, identity, and the urgent need for better sleep.
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Label Gave Him One Last Shot
- Columbia nearly dropped Springsteen and demanded one hit single to prove commercial viability.
- Born to Run was that last chance and it reshaped his career and artistic identity.
Layering Created A Live Big Sound
- The band recorded a basic rhythm track and then layered instruments to build a fuller, richer sound.
- Ironically, moving away from live studio setups produced a more powerful, live-sounding record.
They Tried Strings And Choirs
- Springsteen and the producers experimented with strings and even a huge women's choir during the Born to Run sessions.
- They tried many arrangements over months and ultimately left those extras off the final album.
