Bruce Springteen – Badlands

About the song

“Badlands” by Bruce Springsteen stands as a powerful anthem of resilience and determination, encapsulating the struggles and aspirations of those caught in the throes of adversity. Released in 1978 as part of the critically acclaimed album Darkness on the Edge of Town, this track not only showcases Springsteen’s lyrical prowess but also highlights his unique ability to weave personal and universal themes into his music.

The song opens with a driving rhythm and a captivating guitar riff that immediately draws listeners in, setting the stage for Springsteen’s evocative storytelling. Lyrically, “Badlands” paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by individuals striving to break free from their circumstances. The line, “You’ve got to learn to live with what you can’t rise above,” resonates deeply, offering a raw reflection on the human condition. It speaks to the frustrations of feeling trapped, yet it also conveys a sense of hope and determination.

What makes “Badlands” particularly compelling is its blend of rock and folk influences, underscored by Springsteen’s passionate vocal delivery. His voice carries an emotional weight, perfectly matching the intensity of the lyrics. The song’s instrumentation is both dynamic and accessible, featuring an energetic band that complements Springsteen’s storytelling style. This creates an anthemic quality that invites listeners to sing along, reinforcing the communal experience of confronting life’s hardships together.

Throughout his career, Springsteen has been known for his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level, and “Badlands” is no exception. The song has become a staple in his live performances, often eliciting an enthusiastic response from fans who relate to its themes of struggle and resilience. It serves as a reminder that while life may be filled with challenges, there is always a path forward, a theme that resonates particularly strongly in today’s world.

In conclusion, “Badlands” by Bruce Springsteen remains a timeless anthem for anyone who has faced adversity. Its combination of powerful lyrics, spirited instrumentation, and heartfelt delivery makes it a significant piece in the landscape of American music. This song not only captures the essence of struggle but also inspires listeners to persevere, making it a true classic that continues to inspire generations.

Video

Lyrics

Lights out tonight, trouble in the heartland
Got a head-on collision smashin’ in my guts, man
I’m caught in a crossfire that I don’t understand
But there’s one thing I know for sure, girl
I don’t give a damn for the same old played-out scenes
Baby, I don’t give a damn for just the in-betweens
Honey, I want the heart, I want the soul, I want control right now
You better listen to me, baby

Talk about a dream, try to make it real
You wake up in the night with a fear so real
You spend your life waiting for a moment that just don’t come
Well, don’t waste your time waiting

Badlands, you gotta live it every day
Let the broken hearts stand as the price you’ve gotta pay
We’ll keep pushin’ ’til it’s understood
And these badlands start treating us good

Workin’ in the fields ’til you get your back burned
Workin’ ‘neath the wheels ’til you get your facts learned
Baby, I got my facts learned real good right now
You better get it straight, darling
Poor man wanna be rich, rich man wanna be king
And a king ain’t satisfied ’til he rules everything
I wanna go out tonight, I wanna find out what I got

Well, I believe in the love that you gave me
I believe in the faith that could save me
I believe in the hope and I pray
That someday it may raise me above these

Badlands, you gotta live it every day
Let the broken hearts stand as the price you’ve gotta pay
We’ll keep pushin’ ’til it’s understood
And these badlands start treating us good
Woah woah woah woah

Hmm, hm-hm-hm
Hmm, hm-hm-hm-hm
Hmm, hm-hm-hm
Hmm, hm-hm-hm-hm

For the ones who had a notion, a notion deep inside
That it ain’t no sin to be glad you’re alive
I wanna find one face that ain’t looking through me
I wanna find one place, I wanna spit in the face of these

Badlands, you gotta live it every day
Let the broken hearts stand as the price you’ve gotta pay
Keep movin’ ’til it’s understood
And these badlands start treating us good

Woah, woah, woah, woah
Badlands, woah woah woah woah
Badlands, woah woah woah woah
Badlands, woah woah woah woah
Badlands, woah woah woah woah
Badlands, woah woah woah woah