Springsteen's Secret to Longevity: Paying His Band Well and Keeping Them Happy

Bruce Springsteen, the legendary rock icon, has revealed the key to his remarkable career success and longevity - paying his band members a "tremendous amount of money" and being a "pretty nice boss." The 75-year-old musician, who is worth over billion, shared these insights during a recent screening of his new tour documentary, "Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band," in London.

The Secrets Behind Springsteen's Enduring Success

Paying His Band Well: The Cornerstone of Springsteen's Success

Springsteen has been touring and recording music with the E Street Band since the 1970s, and he attributes much of his success to the way he treats his band members. "I pay them a tremendous amount of money. That greases the wheels pretty good," he said at the event. By compensating his band members generously, Springsteen has been able to maintain a stable and loyal lineup, which has been crucial to the band's longevity and performance quality.Springsteen understands that a well-paid and content band is essential for delivering the high-energy, electrifying shows that have made him a global superstar. "If you get the art right, the music right, and the band right, you go out and play every night like it's your last night on Earth," he explained. This "serial philosophy" has been the driving force behind the E Street Band's unwavering commitment to their craft, even after decades of touring and recording together.

The Importance of Being a "Pretty Nice Boss"

In addition to financial compensation, Springsteen has also cultivated a positive working environment for his band members. "I'm a pretty nice boss," he revealed, emphasizing the importance of fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere within the group.This approach has paid dividends, as Springsteen's band members have remained loyal and dedicated to the project for decades. "The truth is, you need to cast your band well," he said, underscoring the value of assembling a team of talented and compatible musicians who share a common vision and passion for the music.

The Enduring Bonds of the E Street Band

Springsteen's long-standing relationship with the E Street Band is a testament to the power of loyalty and camaraderie in the music industry. While the lineup has changed over the years, many of the band's members have been with Springsteen since the 1970s, a rarity in the often-volatile world of rock and roll."The actual arc of rock 'n' roll bands is to break up," Springsteen acknowledged. "Forget about bands staying together, we can't get two people to stay together." Yet, the E Street Band has defied this trend, remaining a cohesive and dedicated unit for decades, driven by their shared passion for the music and their unwavering loyalty to Springsteen.Stevie Van Zandt, one of the E Street Band's members, echoed this sentiment, stating that the band's focus has always been on the music, rather than chasing commercial success. "This has been an artistic adventure from the beginning," he said. "Now, luckily, we found some commercial calling ground along the way, which was great."

The Enduring Legacy of Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band

Springsteen's success and longevity in the music industry are a testament to his ability to cultivate a loyal and dedicated band, one that is willing to give their all every night on stage. By paying his band members well and fostering a positive working environment, Springsteen has been able to maintain a stable and high-performing lineup, which has been crucial to the band's enduring popularity and critical acclaim.With over 140 million records sold worldwide and 20 Grammy Awards to his name, Springsteen's legacy as one of the greatest rock musicians of all time is secure. And at the heart of this legacy is the E Street Band, a group of talented and committed musicians who have helped Springsteen bring his iconic songs to life for generations of fans.As Springsteen himself said, "If you get the art right, the music right, and the band right, you go out and play every night like it's your last night on Earth." This philosophy has not only sustained Springsteen's career but has also cemented his place as a true legend of the music industry.