The world of music is often filled with unexpected rivalries and critiques. In the case of Van Morrison and Bruce Springsteen, two legendary figures in the industry, there lies a complex relationship that has sparked numerous discussions. This article delves into the reasons behind Morrison's discontent with Springsteen, exploring their individual journeys and how one artist's success can sometimes overshadow another's legacy.
George Ivan Morrison, known simply as Van Morrison, was born in Northern Ireland at the end of World War II in 1945. He started his musical career during his teenage years, playing Celtic-inspired music in Belfast. Morrison's rise to fame began with the formation of the band Them, famous for hits like "Gloria" and "Here Comes the Night." He later embarked on a solo career in 1967, releasing the classic "Brown-Eyed Girl" and the critically acclaimed album "Astral Weeks." Throughout his career, Morrison's unique blend of genres, including R&B and gospel, influenced many artists, notably a young Bruce Springsteen.
Springsteen has solidified his place as one of the greatest rock stars of all time, with a career spanning over fifty years. He has garnered numerous accolades, including 20 Grammy Awards, an Oscar, and a Tony Award for his show "Springsteen on Broadway." Despite his success and the admiration of millions, Van Morrison's perspective on Springsteen's career reveals a different narrative—one of rivalry and critique.
Van Morrison's Scathing Critique of Bruce Springsteen
In interviews, Van Morrison has been vocal about his thoughts on Bruce Springsteen. He once stated that he ignored recommendations to listen to Springsteen for years, dismissing the comparisons that were often drawn between them. However, his attitude changed when he finally watched a video of Springsteen perform. Morrison controversially remarked that Springsteen "definitely ripped me off," expressing his frustration over what he perceived as Springsteen's appropriation of his style.
Moreover, Morrison felt that Springsteen imitated his on-stage movements from the 1970s. He demonstrated this during an interview, illustrating how he believed Springsteen's performance style mirrored his own. This sentiment of feeling "pissed off" by Springsteen's success suggests a deeper sense of rivalry, showcasing how artists can sometimes feel overshadowed by their contemporaries.
What Bruce Springsteen Thinks About Van Morrison
Interestingly, the animosity seems to be one-sided. Springsteen has often acknowledged Morrison as one of his early idols. In fact, he included Morrison in his list of 25 Biggest Heroes for Rolling Stone, citing the profound influence that Morrison's music had on his own work. Springsteen admired Morrison's unique blend of sounds, stating that it impacted his first two albums significantly.
Additionally, Springsteen has expressed his fondness for Morrison's song "Madame George," calling it one of his favorite tracks. He credits it with shaping his own songwriting style, emphasizing the beauty and spiritual depth he found within Morrison's music. This admiration contrasts sharply with Morrison's critical stance, further illustrating the complexities of their relationship.
Table of Contents
- Biography of Van Morrison
- Van Morrison's Critique of Bruce Springsteen
- Bruce Springsteen's Thoughts on Van Morrison
Biography of Van Morrison
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | George Ivan Morrison |
| Born | August 31, 1945 |
| Origin | Belfast, Northern Ireland |
| Notable Works | "Brown-Eyed Girl", "Astral Weeks", "Moondance" |
| Influences | American R&B, Gospel, Celtic Music |
