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Authenticity as Physicality: Energy, Endurance and Longevity in Bruce Springsteen’s Late Career

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Richard ElliottORCiD

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC-ND).

Abstract

This article explores Bruce Springsteen's late-career authenticity, arguing that it is rooted in physicality, energy, and endurance rather than in biographical truth. Drawing on Allan Moore's authentication framework, it shows how Springsteen adapts his persona to remain credible as he ages. Through performances, memoirs, and media projects, he redefines rock authenticity by embracing vulnerability and longevity. A concert from 2024 serves as a case study, wherein Springsteen commits to presence and connection despite vocal strain. Challenging ageist narratives, the article positions Springsteen as a subversive figure who resists graceful aging, instead proving that authenticity in rock can evolve through sustained effort, reflection, and audience engagement across generations.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Elliott R

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Rock Music Studies

Year: 2026

Pages: epub ahead of print

Online publication date: 17/01/2026

Acceptance date: 06/11/2025

Date deposited: 02/02/2026

ISSN (print): 1940-1159

ISSN (electronic): 1940-1167

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

URL: https://doi.org/10.1080/19401159.2026.2616086

DOI: 10.1080/19401159.2026.2616086

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