From a troubled childhood in suburban New Jersey, Bruce Springsteen has made a unique musical journey to become one of the world's most popular and enduring stars. As a writer, singer, guitarist, recording artist, and performer he has formed an emotional bond with his audience of a strength few other entertainers have ever managed.

Bruce Frederick Joseph Springsteen was born on September 23, 1949. His childhood was seemingly a difficult one, there being seemingly nothing much that inspired the young Springsteen other than "the power and the majesty and the ministry of rock 'n' roll," as he later put it. Although he remained unconverted and skeptical, the effects of Springsteen's catholic education on his world view also show through in the lyrics of many later songs and the old-time religious feel of moments in the live shows.