zoom_in Click to enlarge

The Essential Bruce Springsteen

▲ ▼

description The Essential Bruce Springsteen Overview

The Essential Bruce Springsteen is a 2003 compilation album by American rock musician Bruce Springsteen, released as part of Columbia Records' 'The Essential' series. The two-disc set collects tracks spanning Springsteen's career from his 1973 debut through the 2002 album The Rising, including singles such as 'Born to Run,' 'Dancing in the Dark,' and 'The Ghost of Tom Joad.' A limited edition version included a third disc of previously unreleased tracks, B-sides, and live recordings. The compilation was certified multi-platinum and served as an overview of Springsteen's catalog for new listeners.

help The Essential Bruce Springsteen FAQ

What years of Bruce Springsteen's career does the 2003 Essential collection cover?

Its main sequence begins with material from Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J., released in 1973. It extends through songs from The Rising, Springsteen's 2002 studio album with the E Street Band.

What is on the third disc of The Essential Bruce Springsteen?

The original 2003 edition uses its third CD for rarities rather than another straightforward run of hits. It includes B-sides, soundtrack and benefit contributions, covers and previously unreleased material.

Did Bruce Springsteen choose the tracks himself?

Springsteen was actively involved in selecting the material for the 2003 three-disc compilation. In the liner notes, he explained that it was assembled partly for new listeners encountered during the tour supporting The Rising.

Is the 2015 edition identical to the 2003 release?

No, the later edition revised the track selection and career coverage. Buyers seeking the original rarities disc should therefore check the year and track listing rather than assuming every release titled The Essential Bruce Springsteen contains the same material.

swap_horiz

Looking for The Essential Bruce Springsteen alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward