I wish I lived in England.

1.      I am part of the tribe of Bruce Springsteen fans. There are very specific behaviors we exhibit, especially when The Boss is on tour. First, it is crucial that when tour dates are released, tickets are immediately purchased for the venue closest to your place of residence (once you have your tickets, feel free to brag about it). Next comes the intense process of preparing for the concert. Any albums you may have skipped buying in the past 35 years since the release of “Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J.” must be purchased immediately and played repeatedly – to ensure all lyrics are learned. If you already have all the albums, any box sets or new books that have been released in the past year must be in your possessions as fast as possible. Now comes the most important process of picking what to wear. The outfit must consist of one Bruce Springsteen T shirt (vintage preferred) and one Bandanna to be worn across the forehead a-la “Born in the USA” (we don’t take ourselves too seriously). Extra items such as buttons are a bonus.  

Once the concert arrives, all fans are required to yell “Bruuuce” at the beginning and end of every song, as well as during any silent moments at the show. Most importantly, before leaving the show a new piece of merchandise must be purchased to prove your attendance at the show and lifelong loyalty to The Boss.

The next time The Boss shows up in town, all steps are to be repeated with equal enthusiasm. Remember, you’ll need to buy records, newly releases books and box sets, a t shirt, a bandanna and tour merchandise.