About The Song
“Thunder Road” is the opening track of Bruce Springsteen’s critically acclaimed album “Born to Run,” released in 1975. The song has become a classic and is celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics, evocative storytelling, and the powerful musical arrangement that captures the spirit of American rock.
Five facts about Bruce Springsteen’s “Thunder Road”:
- Album Opener: “Thunder Road” serves as the opening track for Bruce Springsteen’s third studio album, “Born to Run.” The song sets the tone for the entire album, introducing listeners to the themes of hope, escape, and the open road that are prevalent throughout the record.
- Lyrical Themes: The lyrics of “Thunder Road” are known for their poetic and narrative quality. Springsteen’s storytelling paints a vivid picture of small-town life, dreams, and the desire for something more, creating a sense of longing and optimism.
- Influence of Film: The song’s title is inspired by a 1958 Robert Mitchum film called “Thunder Road.” The film’s story revolves around moonshining and the challenges faced by the main character. Springsteen drew on the imagery of the film to create a sense of rebellion and escape in his own narrative.
- Live Performances: “Thunder Road” has been a staple in Bruce Springsteen’s live performances, often serving as an opening song or featured in the setlist. Its live renditions are known for their energy and the crowd’s enthusiastic response.
- Critical Acclaim: “Thunder Road” has received widespread critical acclaim and is considered one of Springsteen’s signature songs. It has been featured in numerous lists of the greatest songs in rock music history, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its impact on both fans and fellow musicians.
Video
Lyrics
The screen door slams, Mary’s dress sways
Like a vision, she dances across the porch as the radio plays
Roy Orbison singing for the lonely
Hey, that’s me, and I want you only
Don’t turn me home again
I just can’t face myself alone againDon’t run back inside
Darling, you know just what I’m here for
So you’re scared, and you’re thinking
That maybe we ain’t that young anymore
Show a little faith, there’s magic in the night
You ain’t a beauty, but, hey, you’re alright
Oh, and that’s alright with meYou can hide ‘neath your covers and study your pain
Make crosses from your lovers, throw roses in the rain
Waste your summer praying in vain
For a saviour to rise from these streets
Well now, I’m no hero, that’s understood
All the redemption I can offer, girl, is beneath this dirty hood
With a chance to make it good somehow
Hey what else can we do now?Except roll down the window and let the wind blow back your hair
Well the night’s busting open
These two lanes will take us anywhere
We got one last chance to make it real
To trade in these wings on some wheels
Climb in back, heaven’s waiting down on the tracksOh-oh come take my hand
We’re riding out tonight to case the promised land
Oh-oh Thunder Road oh Thunder Road oh Thunder Road
Lying out there like a killer in the sun
Hey, I know it’s late, we can make it if we run
Oh, Thunder Road, sit tight, take hold
Thunder RoadWell I got this guitar, and I learned how to make it talk
And my car’s out back if you’re ready to take that long walk
From your front porch to my front seat
The door’s open but the ride it ain’t free
And I know you’re lonely for words that I ain’t spoken
But tonight we’ll be free, all the promises’ll be brokenThere were ghosts in the eyes of all the boys you sent away
They haunt this dusty beach road
In the skeleton frames of burned out Chevrolets
They scream your name at night in the street
Your graduation gown lies in rags at their feet
And in the lonely cool before dawn
You hear their engines roaring on
But when you get to the porch they’re gone on the wind
So Mary, climb in
It’s a town full of losers
And I’m pulling out of here to win
