Bruce Springsteen covers 15 classic soul songs on his new album.
Bruce Springsteen is releasing a new album of soul covers called 'Only The Strong Survive'.
The album focuses on classic soul tracks, both known and unknown, released from the 60s to the 80s. Its title comes from the song 'Only The Strong Survive' by Jerry Butler released in 1969.
'Only The Strong Survive' also features songs such as 'Do I Love You (Indeed I Do)' by Frank Wilson, 'Don't Play That Song' by Aretha Franklin, 'Soul Days' by Dobie Gray, "Nightshift" by the Commodores, "I Wish It Would Rain" by The Temptations and "Somebody We'll Be Together" by Diana Ross and the Supremes.
“I wanted to make an album where I would just sing. And what better music to work with than the great American canon of the 60s and 70s?” Bruce Springsteen explained in a statement.
“I was inspired by Levi Stubbs, David Ruffin, Jimmy Ruffin, Iceman Jerry Butler, Diana Ross, Dobie Gray and Scott Walker, among many others. I tried to live up to all of them - and the wonderful creators of this glorious music," he continued.
“My goal is for the modern audience to enjoy its beauty and joy, just as I have since I first heard it. I hope you enjoy listening to this album as much as I enjoyed making it,” he said.
"Only The Strong Survive" was recorded at Thrill Hill Recording Studio in Thrill Hill, New Jersey, produced by Ron Aniello, engineer by Rob Lebret and executive produced by Jon Landau.
The album features vocalist Sam Moore of Sam & Dave, as well as The E Street Horns on string arrangements by Rob Mathes.
Voiced by Soozie Tyrell, Lisa Lowell, Michelle Moore, Curtis King Jr, Dennis Collins and Fonzi Thornton.
'Only The Strong Survive' is Bruce Springsteen's first cover album since 2006's 'We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions'.
Throughout his career, Bruce Springsteen's love for soul music has always been evident and his musical and performance style has always been heavily based on the particular qualities of the genre.
'Only The Strong Survive' is an album born from a huge love and it shows.
This is an overall excellent addition to Bruce Springsteen's discography, which is characterized by a wonderful fusion between the soul that has influenced him so much and his original work.
As has been his practice for years in his career covering other artists' songs, Bruce Springsteen wisely doesn't try to flat-out imitate the originals. He spends time creating versions that honor the original songs while also being fresh renditions of them.
'Only The Strong Survive' is Bruce Springsteen's next album after 2020's 'Letter To You', which debuted at the top of the charts in 11 countries.
Also find the album on Spotify below.
