Jesse explores Bruce Springsteen fandom with various guests in this weekly show all about The Boss.
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The Set Lusting Bruce: The Springsteen Podcast is a true gem for music lovers and fans of Bruce Springsteen alike. Hosted by Jesse Jackson, this podcast offers an immersive and engaging experience for listeners as they delve into the world of music and the impact it has on our lives.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is Jesse's passion and enthusiasm for not only Bruce Springsteen but also for all types of music. His love for music shines through in every episode as he engages with his guests in thoughtful conversations that go beyond just discussing Springsteen's work. Jesse has a knack for asking questions that truly move the conversations in a fun and valuable way, allowing guests to share their own stories and experiences with music. He celebrates the diverse range of musical tastes and experiences, creating a space where fans can connect with each other and with their favorite artists.
Furthermore, Jesse's interviewing skills are top-notch. He is well-prepared, making sure to research his guests thoroughly before each episode. This preparedness allows him to engage in meaningful discussions that bring out interesting insights and stories from his guests. Jesse's kind and generous nature also shines through as he treats each guest with respect, regardless of their level of fame or expertise. He creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences.
While it's difficult to find any major faults with The Set Lusting Bruce: The Springsteen Podcast, one possible aspect that some listeners might find challenging is the heavy focus on Bruce Springsteen. As much as Jesse tries to weave in interesting tangents throughout his episodes, the central theme remains Springsteen's music. This might be limiting for those who may not be die-hard fans or have varying interests outside of Springsteen's work.
In conclusion, The Set Lusting Bruce: The Springsteen Podcast is an absolute must-listen for music enthusiasts looking for engaging conversations about not only Bruce Springsteen but also the broader world of music and its impact on our lives. Jesse Jackson's passion, knowledge, and interviewing skills make this podcast a joy to listen to. Whether you're a die-hard Springsteen fan or simply appreciate great music, this podcast will leave you feeling inspired and connected to the power of music.

As we continue Pride in Bruce, here is a re-releases a favorite 2017 conversation, edited to focus on guest Bella Pori's joyful song discussion Jesse Jackson and Bella briefly discuss political engagement and gun reform before diving into Bella's “Bruce Springsteen, gay as heck” lens on interpreting queer subtext in art. Bella shares her picks—“Streets of Philadelphia,” “Backstreets,” “This Hard Land,” “Bobby Jean,” “Frankie Fell in Love,” “Pink Cadillac,” and an honorable mention for “Rosalita”—and they reflect on representation, differing perspectives, and listener feedback. 00:00 Pride in Bruce Launch 01:48 Revisiting Bella Episode 03:13 Meet the Host and Guest 03:46 Politics and Civic Action 05:46 Gun Reform Conversation 09:09 Summer Updates and AIDS Curriculum 10:19 Why These Songs Feel Queer 14:17 Queer Subtext in Media 20:31 Debating Interpretations Online 22:04 Song One Streets of Philadelphia 24:34 Backstreets as Queer Love 26:06 This Hard Land Reading 27:46 Outlander and Gay Portrayals 29:29 Bobby Jean as Lesbian 33:52 Frankie Meets Pink Cadillac 34:59 Rosalita and Gender Flips 37:27 Feedback and Representation 40:09 Heroes and Doctor Who 41:42 Wrap Up and Call to Action 43:04 Pride Month Closing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson interviews Jason Bisogni, a Westchester, New York marketing professional and lifelong music fan, about his path into classic rock, his early concert experiences, and the moment he became a dedicated Springsteen fan after seeing the 1999 E Street Band reunion tour. Jason shares that he came out later in life (to two people at 39, more fully at 41 in 2021) and explains how Bruce's lyrics took on new meaning afterward, citing songs like “Darkness on the Edge of Town,” “Trapped,” “Living Proof,” and “Two Hearts.” He credits Bob Dylan's “It's All Over Now, Baby Blue” line “He not busy being born is busy dying” as pivotal, discusses chasing songs live, recounts meeting Bruce several times, and answers the “Mary” question. 00:00 Pride in Bruce Intro 01:48 Meet Jesse and Jason 02:21 Jason's Music Roots 03:18 Family Soundtrack Growing Up 06:43 Wrestling Detour and WWE 11:45 Concerts That Sparked It 14:59 Finding Bruce Springsteen 17:29 First E Street Show Magic 19:34 Counting Shows and Fandom 20:48 Static Setlist Debate 24:25 Health, Travel, and Missing Shows 26:27 Bruce and Coming Out Journey 27:01 Coming Out With The Boss 29:32 Lyrics Hit Different Now 32:07 Gay Icon Podcast Picks 34:23 Forever Favorites Playlist 38:18 Born Or Busy Dying 41:04 Songs Still Chasing Live 43:24 Meeting Bruce Stories 48:25 Thunder Road Mary Debate 50:39 Gratitude Pride Month Wrap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're bringing back one of our favorite conversations as part of Pride 2026. Co-host Bella joins Jesse to talk with Jesse — radio producer, drag performer, and co-host of The Boss Belongs to Us — about her podcast, her love of Bruce Springsteen's music, and the question at the heart of it all: Is Bruce a queer icon? If you haven't heard it, you're in for a treat. If you have, it's absolutely worth another listen. https://open.spotify.com/show/33BxEoWfbSJ22NWap9pxhU?si=0bad4f80e3364f20 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We kick off Pride in Bruce Month with guest Nico Stratus, a Toronto-based writer originally from Canada's Yukon. Niko describes growing up in a music- and book-filled home, later leaving construction work after coming out as trans, and building a writing career through online essays, including an early op-ed that prompted an attempted libel threat. Nico recounts discovering Bruce Springsteen later in life—initially misreading Born in the U.S.A.—and connecting deeply to Bruce's earnestness, storytelling, and songs like “Dancing in the Dark,” “Thunder Road,” “Drive All Night,” and Nebraska tracks. Nico discusses their book, The Dad Rock That Made Me a Woman, a memoir-mixtape where “Dancing in the Dark” becomes a pivotal catalyst for coming out, and shares where to find their work online. Find out more about Niko here - https://www.nikostratis.com/ Amazon Link for The Dad Rock that Made me a Women - here https://a.co/d/0git0VZh 00:00 Pride in Bruce Intro 01:48 Meet Jesse and Nico 02:10 Tattoo and Cancer Talk 02:46 Nico Background Story 04:03 Music in the Yukon 09:35 Reading and Escape 11:13 Comics Marvel vs DC 13:56 Becoming a Writer 17:02 First Op-Ed and Lawsuit 18:01 Discovering Springsteen 20:56 Why Bruce Hit Home 22:58 Dancing in the Dark Deep Dive 27:10 Writing the Dad Rock Book 29:14 Mixtape Memoir Blueprint 30:55 Springsteen Awakening Moment 32:34 Impostor Syndrome and Belonging 35:57 Good Tired Dream Work 37:59 Never Seen Bruce Live 38:55 Songs That Shaped Me 42:49 Queer Icon Bruce Debate 44:58 Why Read the Book 49:56 Does Mary Get In 53:24 Where to Find Nico 55:08 Pride Month Signoff Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode of Perfectly Good Podcast—where the hosts normally rank John Hiatt songs A to Z—Jesse and Sylvan welcome guest Lilly Hiatt to talk about her own career. Lilly recalls starting guitar at 12, overcoming shyness to perform, and beginning songwriting in middle school, describing how melodies and lyrics arrive together and how she captures ideas on voice memos. She explains how songs develop at different speeds, how albums reflect a specific time period, and how collaboration shapes unexpected recording outcomes, including working with her husband Colby on Forever and their project Domestic Bliss. Lilly shares early memories touring with her dad, favorite venues, thoughts on Napster's impact on making a living through touring, and influences like Pearl Jam and Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska. She discusses personal songs “Ray,” “Thoughts,” and “Impostor,” then plugs upcoming Texas-area shows and encourages fans to support by buying merch and records at gigs. 00:00 Cold Open Dialogue 00:53 Podcast Intro And Guest Reveal 02:12 First Meeting And Fan Story 03:11 Early Guitar And Stage Nerves 05:46 Writing Songs And Poetry Roots 06:56 Songwriting Process And Tools 11:33 Building Albums And Collaboration 14:51 Domestic Bliss With Husband 15:41 Growing Up On Tour 16:35 Backstage Hello From Linda 17:52 Tour Life And Favorite Venues 23:50 Napster Era And Music Business 25:27 Touring Economics And Team 27:15 Touring Help Needed 27:45 Pearl Jam Origins 29:27 Eddie Vedder Shoutout 30:15 Writing Ray for Sister 31:15 Family Bonds and Aunt Life 33:43 Thoughts Voicemail Choice 34:57 Producer Magic Explained 37:25 Nashville Identity and Genre 39:24 Creative Goals Abroad 40:32 Springsteen Nebraska Deep Dive 43:02 Impostor Verse Backstory 47:27 Shows Merch and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Los Angeles–based musician and music teacher Jake Cassman, who shares his path from growing up in Berkeley on classic rock and '90s alternative to discovering Bruce Springsteen later through a 2008 Obama rally performance, long bus rides through New Jersey, and years playing dueling pianos. Jake discusses teaching recording and songwriting at The Geffen Academy, the realities of freelancing (busking, weddings, improv), and how COVID ended live work and pushed him into a USC master's program that led to greater stability and new opportunities, including producing for the podcast Switched on Pop. He explains why he shifted from the Drunken Logic moniker to releasing music under his own name, introduces his album Idling High, performs “We All Look the Same,” and talks songwriting, storytelling, and favorite Springsteen albums, ending with the classic Thunder Road question. https://www.jakecassman.com/music 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 02:00 Teaching Music in LA 03:00 TeachRock and Music Education 04:27 Writing and Community Programs 05:35 Growing Up With Rock 07:32 Finding Bruce Springsteen 09:14 Early Music Obsession 10:31 Dueling Pianos Stories 12:31 Requests and Deep Cuts 15:10 Freelance Music Career 17:38 Rebranding as Jake Kassman 19:17 Pandemic Shock and Pivot 22:41 Freelancing and Saying Yes 25:52 Better Paying Gigs 26:32 Idling High Origins 28:15 We All Look the Same 33:33 Storytelling Gets Universal 36:19 Bruce Road Trip Deep Dive 39:28 Next Creative Steps 40:40 Pop Podcast Tangent 44:00 Thunder Road Debate 47:53 Where To Find Jake 49:34 Final Wrap And Thanks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this B-side episode, host Jesse Jackson talks with electro-punk pioneer Peter Pepper, calling from Shibuya, Tokyo, about growing up in rural Florida feeling alienated, discovering punk and industrial music, and channeling creativity through early audio editing into a music career. Peter shares how playing the State Theatre in St. Petersburg became a breakthrough moment, how “electro-punk” emerged organically around 1999–2001, and stories from touring, including Asbury Park's Stone Pony in 2001 and a later tour moment with Wes Borland. They discuss the realities of life on the road, modern pressures of permanent online records, and how a friend's recommendation led Peter to build a life between Japan and Bali. Peter previews his May 20 release “We're From Florida” and a forthcoming blues project, then answers Jesse's “Mary question” about Thunder Road. https://www.peterpepper.net/ https://open.spotify.com/artist/3PWK1iZunlFBPGG5CMpMh0?si=b9tXZRimTXqSUIeILG5Crg 00:00 B-Side Welcome 00:49 Meet Peter Pepper 02:00 Florida Roots 04:01 Finding Punk Scene 05:37 Outsider Identity 12:43 Creative Awakening 15:08 Learning By Doing 18:37 Creating In Public 22:40 First Big Break 27:18 Electro Punk Origins 29:50 Building Electro Punk 32:37 Labels And Movements 33:45 Stone Pony Ghost Town 38:44 Wes Borland Moment 41:21 Tour Life Offstage 44:03 Why Japan Became Home 48:28 New Music Plans 50:29 Thunder Road Mary Question 52:44 Goodbyes And Housekeeping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson opens a B-side episode of Set Lusting Bruce with musician and worship leader Brigitte Donahoe, who shares her journey from growing up in Atlantic City, Las Vegas, California, and Michigan to becoming a songwriter, wife, and homeschooling mom of two. Brigitte discusses her eclectic influences ('90s rock/ska, R&B vocalists, and later country), her complicated early church experience, and a pivotal youth conference encounter that brought her back to faith. She describes starting songwriting at 14, releasing her first EP Restored, and performing at festivals, churches, and Christian nights at local bars. She also reflects on “Cherish Moments,” her grief-inspired song “Keep On,” her desire to make rock music, and her hope for more listening and grace in the church. https://brigittedonoho.com/home 00:00 B-Side Welcome 01:14 Meet Brigitte 01:59 Growing Up Musical 03:30 Country Music Conversion 05:34 Faith Roots and Doubts 07:14 Choosing Belief 11:14 Music Takes Over 12:52 Songwriting Calling 15:23 Going Pro in Music 16:26 Through His Eyes Story 18:06 Faith and Politics Divide 20:34 Church Needs Grace 22:37 Assume Good Intent 22:59 Cherish Moments Talk 24:05 Better Days Mindset 26:06 Starting Live Gigs 26:57 Missing The CD Era 28:11 Dreaming Of Rock 30:25 Touring As A Family 31:52 Songs That Heal Grief 36:34 Farewell And Housekeeping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes returning guest Tom to discuss the current Bruce Springsteen tour, upcoming shows in DC, Austin, and Atlanta, and reactions to the set list, including excitement about rarely played songs like “Born in the U.S.A.” Tom introduces his new Substack, “Blue Collar Costumes: A Comparative Study of Bruce Springsteen, Stephen King, and the World That Made Them,” which supports a larger book project exploring parallels between Springsteen and King—similar East Coast working-class roots, complicated or absent fathers, and mothers as driving forces—within a broader post–World War II social history. Tom outlines the Substack's monthly themes and posting schedule, starting in May, including a first theme on “Fractured Fathers,” plus Tolkien posts and fiction. They also discuss recent King adaptations and favorite King books, and share subscription details. https://bluecollarcostumes.substack.com/ 00:39 Welcome and Guest Intro 02:00 Tour Talk and Setlist Buzz 04:37 New Project Reveal 06:41 Bruce and King Parallels 11:23 Substack Format and Themes 15:31 Stephen King Adaptations 17:32 Favorite King Books 20:21 Where to Find Substack 22:16 Pricing and Subscriber Tiers 27:08 Wrap Up and Farewell 28:08 Housekeeping and Links https://bluecollarcostumes.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Michael C back to discuss Jake Thistle's American Idol elimination, arguing Jake's strengths are his songwriting, frontman rapport, versatility in changing vocal styles across artists (Petty, Jackson Browne, Bruce, Phil Collins, John Hiatt), and strong character, with hopes for continued success and mention of an April 29 Monmouth University show with Vinny “Mad Dog” Lopez. They shift to Springsteen concerts, set lists, and the tour's anger/war-related themes, including opening with “War,” plus commentary that Bruce has been political since early songs. Michael then defends tribute bands as an affordable way to keep music alive, stressing quality performance, vocal range, and audience engagement, and prefers live performance over studio. Jesse closes with podcast contact info and other projects, including a John Hiatt podcast. 00:00 Podcast Welcome 00:55 Jake Idol Exit 02:22 Why Jake Connects 04:00 Influences And Praise 09:35 Jake Live Shows 12:06 Talent Beyond Voice 14:06 Bruce Tour Plans 15:44 Setlist And Politics 17:50 Tribute Bands Value 22:12 What Makes Tribute Great 25:11 Live Beats Studio 26:46 Cover Bands Setlists 28:58 Hooking New Fans 30:30 Tributes Keep Legacy 31:44 Politics And Critics 34:06 Proving Greatness Live 37:08 Respecting Tributes 38:13 Clive Davis Connection 40:54 Goodbyes And Contacts 42:57 Radio Hits Paradox 45:09 Podcast Housekeeping 47:03 Final Sign Off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson presents a B-side episode of Set Lusting Bruce featuring Neat, a Punjabi Thai Sikh independent recording artist and development psychology graduate student from Bangkok who moved to New York at 25. Neat describes growing up with Bollywood and religious music, discovering Western artists like Britney Spears and Eminem, and secretly writing lyrics that sparked her own songwriting; her father destroyed her rap cassettes, prompting her to graffiti her wall in protest. She explains how music “found” her repeatedly, including through her Thailand-based Freedom of Expression project empowering girls, and later after surviving years of domestic violence, coercive control, and a nine-year New York family-court custody battle she says ignored psychological abuse. Her song and video “Rise” recount and reenact these experiences, fueling advocacy and a Change.org petition. She discusses cultural-musical blending, upcoming singles and videos, and plans for an EP or album, and shares a message of resilience and seeking help. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0NUUhrMHrQ ProtectChildrenNY – Child Protection Reform Initiative: https://www.change.org/ProtectChildrenNY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes music journalist, publicist, label executive, and manager Danny Goldberg for a B-side conversation about music memories and Bruce Springsteen connections. Goldberg recounts growing up in Hastings-on-Hudson with classical, folk, and cast albums, then shifting to rock after discovering Dylan, the Beatles, and the Stones, and later covering Woodstock for Billboard in 1969. He explains moving from criticism to publicity, becoming Led Zeppelin's publicist, and shaping press narratives around their massive ticket sales amid skeptical critics. Goldberg discusses co-directing and co-producing the 1979 No Nukes film, meeting Springsteen during editing, and securing approval to use key performances after adding political context. He also talks about his books, including the reissued memoir Bumping Into Geniuses, reacts emotionally to Springsteen's “Streets of Philadelphia,” praises the Nebraska film Deliver Me From Nowhere, shares work with Bonnie Raitt and Steve Earle, and answers the “Mary” question about Thunder Road. https://www.dannygoldberg.com 00:37 Meet Danny Goldberg 01:38 No Nukes and Bruce 03:21 Growing Up Musical 05:00 Rock Awakening 08:22 First Bruce Encounter 08:46 Books and Writing 10:28 Billboard and Woodstock 13:43 From Critic to Publicist 17:21 What Publicists Do 21:15 Led Zeppelin PR Win 26:17 Aiming for Management 27:44 First Book Teaser 28:03 Left Lost Teen Spirit 28:52 Bumping Into Geniuses 29:34 Why Write Memoirs 30:25 Streets of Minneapolis 33:20 No Nukes Editing 35:39 Politics In The Cut 36:49 Deliver Me From Nowhere 40:11 Bonnie Raitt And Hyatt 41:55 Whats Next Ahead 43:41 Mary Question Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The echoes of Sunday night in Austin are still alive with me. The joy, unity, and tender moments at the Springsteen concert served as a reminder of the goodness we can foster in the world. Do yourself a favor and soak up this experience if you can! Email me at Setlustingbruce@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A few thoughts on the show in Austin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson introduces a B-side episode of Set Lusting Bruce featuring Ryan Riker, a North Dakota native and retired Army infantry lieutenant colonel who served 23 years with deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. Ryan recalls early music influences (country fairs, Vanilla Ice, Pearl Jam) and discusses how music and visiting performers helped soldiers feel connected during deployments. He describes a Catholic upbringing, struggles with alcoholism and prescription drug abuse, and a turning point after his last drink on November 26, 2023, followed by AA, renewed Christian faith, job loss, divorce, and rebuilding his life by starting a business. Ryan explains his coaching and writing focused on trauma, limiting beliefs, and healing, outlines his podcast “Our Healer, Our Protector,” and shares goals of supporting his daughters and speaking to youth. https://ourprotectordevelopment.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes returning guest Jeff Blum, a Chicago-based freelance sports and entertainment writer and para-professional working with autistic students. They briefly discuss current sports topics including the Bulls' streaky season, trades, and franchise management, plus comparisons to other struggling teams. Jeff shares limited impressions of Springsteen's large “Tracks 2” set, mentions favorite deep cuts, and discusses seeing the Springsteen-related film, praising its entertainment value and its connection to renewed appreciation for the album Nebraska. The conversation then shifts to Aaron Sorkin's work, starting with Sports Night and covering The American President, A Few Good Men, The West Wing, The Newsroom, Moneyball, The Social Network, Steve Jobs, Molly's Game, and Charlie Wilson's War, emphasizing sharp dialogue, morality, journalism standards, and changing media culture. Jeff plugs upcoming writing on the Olympics and a list of 1976 albums turning 50 in 2026, and Jesse closes with show contact and network information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ken Schaefer is one of my dearest friends. He watches at least one movie a night and sometimes two. He loves B Movies, the cheesier the better. I asked his thoughts on the 2025 film Sinners and he had thoughts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Jesse discuss the significance of the 2026 Land of Hope and Dreams tour. Jesse argues the 2026 tour is a “patriotic protest tour” centered on democracy, freedom, and the Constitution, citing song choices like “War,” a reclaimed “Born in the U.S.A.,” “Purple Rain,” and “Clampdown,” and suggests it may serve as a punctuation mark in Springsteen's story! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes London-based journalist Maddie Frye to a “timey-wimey” episode of Set Lusting Bruce, exploring her path to Bruce Springsteen and U2 and how music shaped her spiritual and political awakening. Maddie, who writes about religion, sex, politics, and pop culture, describes growing up near London with parents who loved Bowie, Pink Floyd, Dire Straits, and Genesis, discovering U2 at 12–13 through All That You Can't Leave Behind, and finding Springsteen via a 2006 BBC broadcast of the Seeger Sessions that felt both political and spiritually transformative. She discusses working backward through Bruce's catalog, key live shows (including London 2013 and Liverpool with Paul McCartney), family connections to Springsteen, and reflections on religion's relationship with power. Maddie answers the “Thunder Road” question—Mary gets in the car—and shares where to find her Substack, U2 and Us. 00:00 Podcast Welcome 00:45 Meet Maddie 01:55 Growing Up Musical Roots 04:07 Finding Bruce via Seeger 06:23 Seeger Sessions Meaning 10:30 Working Backwards Catalog 14:12 Live Shows Life Changes 18:54 How Many Shows Seen 20:45 Discovering U2 Obsession 23:20 Fandom Numbers Talk 24:52 Writing Religion Politics 25:02 Music Sparks Big Questions 26:24 Faith Through Lyrics 28:00 Reading Toward Belief 29:22 Faithless Research Journey 32:53 Religion Meets Politics 36:13 Radical Gospel Values 41:01 Privilege Luck and Power 44:03 Liverpool Show Memories 46:06 Facing Mortality of Icons 48:24 Thunder Road Mary Answer 49:48 Where to Find Maddie 50:53 Podcast Wrap and Housekeeping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some fans aren't thrilled with the Land of Hope and Dreams setlist — and Jesse has thoughts. He shares his HBO (Hot Bruce Opinion) and invites anyone who disagrees to send their counter‑take to setlustingbruce@gmail.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes London-based journalist Maddie Fry to a “timey wimey” episode of Set Lusting Bruce to discuss how she discovered Bruce Springsteen through a 2006 BBC broadcast of The Seeger Sessions, then worked backward through albums like Devils & Dust, Magic, and The River, becoming a deeper fan after a powerful 2013 London show and later attending the Liverpool concert where Paul McCartney joined Bruce onstage. Maddie also traces her lifelong devotion to U2, sparked in early-2000s adolescence by All That You Can't Leave Behind and The Joshua Tree, and explains how music by Springsteen, U2, and Johnny Cash shaped her political awareness and led her into writing about religion, spirituality, and culture. The conversation explores faith's relationship with power, modern politics, and ends with Maddie's answer to the “Thunder Road” question and where to find her Substack, U2 and Us. https://www.premierchristianity.com/culture/faithless-the-story-behind-bruce-springsteens-soundtrack-to-a-lost-spiritual-western/20448.article https://u2andus.substack.com/ 00:00 Podcast Welcome 00:45 Meet Maddie Across Timezones 02:00 Growing Up and Early Music 04:07 Finding U2 First 06:23 Seeger Sessions Lightning Bolt 10:33 Working Back Through Bruce 12:40 Devils and Dust Deep Dive 14:12 2013 Show Turns Superfan 18:54 Concert Counts and Uncle Andy 20:45 U2 Origin Story 23:20 U2 Shows and Fandom Culture 24:52 Writing Religion and Politics 25:02 Music Sparks Meaning 26:24 Faith Through Lyrics 28:00 Reading Toward Belief 29:29 Faithless Research Journey 32:37 Religion And Power 36:13 Radical Gospel Ethics 41:01 Privilege Luck And Myth 44:03 Liverpool Show Reverence 46:06 Facing Cultural Mortality 48:24 Mary Gets In The Car 49:48 Where To Find Maddie 50:53 Podcast Wrap And Plugs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Stephen King podcast, Lou is joined by co-hosts Jesse and Karen to discuss Edgar Wright's 2025 adaptation of The Running Man, the second film version after the 1987 Schwarzenegger movie. They outline the near-future premise of an authoritarian media network running a lethal televised manhunt and share reactions to the film's tone as a “popcorn thriller” with on-the-nose social commentary. The group highlights cast standouts (including Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, Michael Cera, and Lee Pace), discusses themes like violence as entertainment, AI/deepfakes and propaganda, and critiques the movie's weak, videogame-like hit squad villains and altered ending versus the book. They finish by ranking The Running Man among 2025 King adaptations, placing it below The Life of Chuck and The Long Walk, and often behind Welcome to Derry. 00:00 Welcome Back and Big Question 01:24 Plot Setup and Dystopian World 02:44 First Impressions and Tone 04:30 Cast Highlights and Cameos 11:12 Adaptation Tone Versus Book 13:08 Opening Act and Ben Richards 17:31 Early Chase and Media Spectacle 22:40 Desensitization and Reality TV 27:25 Why Anyone Joins the Game 33:33 Deepfakes and Rigged Narrative 39:50 Villains and Hit Squad Critique 40:53 Hit Squad Problem 42:33 Popcorn vs Satire 43:41 NPC Villains Critique 45:43 Fixing Lee Pace Arc 46:52 Book Ending Debate 48:42 Hopeful Ending Defense 54:56 Adaptation Expectations 57:49 Ratings and Rewatch 59:07 Ranking King 2025 01:04:40 The Monkey Rant 01:06:36 Wrap Up and Plugs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes returning guest Kathy Durham to discuss Bruce Springsteen news and Kathy's decision to run for Congress. Kathy shares how she uses Steven Van Zandt's TeachRock curriculum in her classroom, connecting music to U.S. history and innovation through lessons on Bad Bunny, imperialism, and Jimi Hendrix, with upcoming units for Women's History Month. They talk about the Nebraska-related movie, box sets, and plans to see Springsteen on the new tour, with Jesse noting his prostate cancer diagnosis. The conversation shifts to politics as Kathy explains her “aha moment” to run after tax and healthcare changes impacting rural Nevada and frustrations with an unresponsive representative. They discuss immigration, due process, inequality, monopolies, and threats to democratic institutions, then offer practical civic actions like staying informed, supporting local news, engaging locally, and volunteering. https://www.kathydurhamforcongress.com/ 00:00 Welcome Back Kathy 00:40 TeachRock in the Classroom 03:09 Nebraska Movie Talk 05:22 Tour Plans and Life Updates 07:20 Bruce and Politics 09:27 Why I'm Running for Congress 14:29 ICE and Due Process 17:25 Top vs Bottom Economics 19:45 America Built by Immigrants 21:05 From Servants to Slavery 21:34 Immigration Waves and Division 22:10 Fixing Legal Pathways 22:46 Farm Labor and Work Visas 23:49 Punishing Workers Not Bosses 25:19 No Consequences for Elites 26:06 Top Versus Bottom Politics 27:07 Trickle Down and Offshoring 28:51 Privatization Playbook 29:49 What You Can Do Locally 33:36 Civic Action Beyond Voting 36:19 Trust Grace and Better Angels 37:10 How to Reach Kathy 38:04 Final Thanks and Sign Off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sylvan and Jesse spend a few moments sharing their joy and pride in the way the podcast's own Jake Thistle. Please check out Jake's music and watch him on American Idol! https://jakethistle.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson opens with reactions to a leaked Springsteen rehearsal set list, predicting a more political “Land of Hope and Dreams/No King” tour. Returning guest Maryanne Janosik, a historian researching Springsteen's Catholic upbringing and its influence, discusses the tour as a spiritual, “gospel-like” continuum tied to servant leadership, roots music, and civic engagement, noting the symbolic arc from Minneapolis to Washington. The conversation shifts to film, including why Ryan Coogler's Sinners resonated (genre-blending, music mythology, culture), Oscar-season dynamics, mixed feelings on Deliver Me From Nowhere, a review of Project Hail Mary, and a strong recommendation for Baz Luhrmann's restored Elvis concert film EPiC. 00:00 Prepared Tour Statement 02:53 Meet Marianne Again 04:02 Catholic Roots And Purpose 07:44 Stewardship Over Rapture 10:45 Frankenstein And Redemption 12:14 Art Life And Our Town 15:56 Tour Arc And Activism 17:28 Just Here For The Music 21:14 Roy Orbison Transformation 24:39 From Tour Talk To Movies 27:50 Why Sinners Matters 33:31 Barn Dance Breakdown 34:56 Bold Films vs Safe Picks 36:17 Why Anderson Won 37:40 Jordan's Award Season Edge 39:14 Marty Supreme Campaign Backlash 41:09 Age Bias in Best Actor 42:49 Why Jordan Beat the Bias 44:28 Springsteen Biopic Misses Spark 49:46 Project Hail Mary Review 53:36 Elvis Concert Film Revival 58:43 Wrap Up and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes pop-culture lecturer and illustrator Arlen Schumer back to Set Lusting Bruce to discuss his three passions—Bruce Springsteen, comic book art history, and Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone. Arlen explains what drew him to Twilight Zone imagery and storytelling, its influence on modern creators, and its early diversity and social themes, then connects Serling's dramatic voice to Springsteen's writing and speeches. The conversation shifts to Bruce fandom and live performance, including Arlen's deep focus on the September 19, 1978 Capitol Theatre broadcast and rare early footage like the Gaslight performance and “Wings for Wheels.” Arlen promotes a March 31 New York Adventure Club webinar on Springsteen live history and a planned June multimedia event tied to a New Jersey exhibit. They also discuss Springsteen's politics, “Streets of Minneapolis,” and Arlen's critiques of unreleased/altered outtakes like “Roulette.” https://arlenschumer.com/ https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1984298328717 00:00 Welcome and Arlen Returns 00:39 Arlen Background and Passions 03:00 Why Twilight Zone Matters 05:53 Twilight Zone Legacy and Influence 12:05 Connecting Twilight Zone to Bruce 16:23 Greatest Bruce Shows and 1978 19:44 First Bruce Show and Fan Journeys 22:01 Bruce Live Ethos and Spanish Harlem 23:54 Promoting the Bruce Webinar 26:15 Gaslight Footage and March 31 Plan 29:15 Rare 1975 Footage 30:00 Wings for Wheels Magic 31:50 Desert Island Thunder Road 32:34 High Hopes Show Memories 34:15 Dream Baby Dream Debate 35:27 Webinar and Links 35:57 June Exhibit Plans 37:30 Bruce and Politics 42:09 Roulette and Outtakes 45:40 Release Decisions Rant 48:32 True President Finale 50:16 Wrap Up and Goodbye Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson opens a B-side episode of Set Lusting Bruce that steps outside the Springsteen universe to spotlight guest Cece's creative joys, blending their shared love of Hallmark movies with music fandom and community. Cece, who grew up near Washington, DC, describes her family's listening (ZZ Top, Southern rock, blues/R&B, show tunes) and how she gravitated instead to Prince, Michael Jackson, politically driven rap, and alternative/punk discovered through WHFS, MTV's 120 Minutes, and films like Suburbia. She studied political science at Virginia Tech, attended law school at Temple, passed the New Jersey bar, but left legal work due to culture fit. Cece recounts becoming obsessed with live music—especially seeing Barenaked Ladies about 80 times, later following Steven Page's solo work and Zoom concerts—and discusses the Avett Brothers fan song-tracking database, concertgoing community, and her current perfume hobby. 00:00 B-Side Detour Intro 00:37 Hallmark Meets Music 01:31 Cece Finds Hallmark Comfort 05:05 Growing Up Near DC 08:26 Finding Her Own Sound 10:33 Politics And Punk Identity 13:33 Films Over Books 14:57 Law School And Philly Bruce 19:17 Workplace Conformity Clash 21:55 Live Music Obsession Begins 22:29 Bare Naked Ladies Era 29:11 Setlists And Fan Databases 32:54 Chasing Rare Songs 33:24 Why See Bands Repeatedly 34:35 Concert Community Bonds 37:31 Music Recommendations Swap 39:54 Bruce Politics And Tours 41:35 Finding The Avett Brothers 43:39 Solo Shows And Fan Culture 47:11 Meeting Musicians Up Close 53:15 Where To Find Cece 53:35 Perfume Rabbit Hole 55:40 Final Thanks And Plugs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes back college professor Maryanne Janosik to discuss Bruce Springsteen's newly released protest song, its rapid creative turnaround, and how it fits Springsteen's history of politically charged music and themes of Catholic social justice. They compare the song's naming of names to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's “Ohio,” speculate about political expression at the Grammys, and reflect on concerns about free speech, polarization, and the shrinking space for teaching controversial art and history. The conversation shifts to film awards, including disappointment that “Deliver Me From Nowhere” received no Oscar nominations, debate about biopic fatigue, and Maryanne's recommended under-the-radar films such as “Train Dreams,” Linklater's “Blue Moon” and “Nouvelle Vague,” “Sorry, Baby,” and the baseball film “Eefus,” plus praise for “Sinners” and “Fruitvale Station.” https://www.mjthemovies.com/ 00:00 Welcome Back Maryanne 00:33 Meet Maryanne Janosik 01:50 Bruce Drops New Protest Song 02:55 How Artists Create Fast 05:26 Protest Music Context 07:38 Catholic Imagination Social Justice 08:45 Teaching Songs of Protest 11:07 Grammys Politics and Censorship 13:30 Academic Freedom Under Pressure 17:13 Reviewing the New Song 20:36 Super Bowl Halftime Culture 23:44 Oscars and Springsteen Films 24:37 Box Office vs Oscars 25:35 Deliver Me From Nowhere 28:36 Biopic Fatigue Debate 30:26 Good vs Great Movies 32:24 Why Sinners Works 36:48 Michael B Jordan Rise 39:23 Under the Radar Picks 45:08 Catherine O'Hara Tribute 47:02 Wrap Up and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Holly Cantos, co-host of the mostly '80s music show What Difference Does It Make? Podcast, for a wide-ranging conversation that moves beyond Bruce Springsteen into radio, fandom, and podcasting. Holly shares her early love of AM radio after moving from New York to Los Angeles, her career behind the scenes in radio syndication and production, and how her parents' music shaped her broad tastes. She recounts discovering U2 on the 1983 War tour, seeing them across every tour, and a highlight at the Sphere, plus taking her son to Bono's Stories of Surrender. Holly and Jesse discuss how her podcast began in 2018, evolved through studio recording and pandemic-era Zoom access to guests, and the challenges of monetization and audience engagement. They close with Holly's Springsteen memories and her view that Mary gets in the car in “Thunder Road.” https://www.wddimpodcast.com/ 00:00 Welcome and Setup 01:55 Holly's Radio Roots 05:21 Parents and Early Music 08:28 AM to FM Era 12:52 Discovering U2 Live 20:03 Concert Memories and Family 24:02 Podcast Mission and Format 27:51 Starting the Show Fast 31:44 Podcasting Advice and Growth 36:23 Guests and Great Interviews 38:33 Money Downloads and Rejection 41:26 Respectful Declines 41:46 Springsteen Intimidation 42:40 Ranking 80s Icons 46:08 Barry Manilow Stories 47:38 Podcast Growth Goals 51:04 Community Over Downloads 54:11 U2 Sphere Highlights 56:31 Bruce Live Memories 01:00:22 Music Tied to Family 01:06:24 Thunder Road Debate 01:08:32 Plugging The Podcast 01:11:51 Wrapping Up Goodbye Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes author and former teacher Sara Goodman-Confino to Set Lusting Bruce to talk Bruce Springsteen, fandom, and fiction. Sara shares her path from 21 years teaching to writing full-time, her Springsteen origin story rooted in hearing “Atlantic City” during a difficult college week, and her family's deep reading culture. She recounts seeing Bruce live (including being pulled onstage in Charlottesville in 2012 with a “Can I dance with Jake?” sign), attending dozens of shows, favorite songs and albums (especially Born to Run and “Backstreets”), and sending Bruce a copy of her novel Don't Forget to Write featuring a brief Bruce cameo. They discuss Sara's focus on humorous, intergenerational stories with strong female characters and “Jewish joy,” including why she writes Jewish characters beyond suffering narratives and how her novels highlight the recentness of women's legal and social limitations. Sara previews upcoming projects, including her June 9 release Off the Record about a young woman in a 1960s newspaper typing pool who uncovers a Cuban spy plot, plus a planned 2027 novel centered on the Beatles' first U.S. concert after Ed Sullivan. Find more about her and her books here - https://saraconfino.com/ 00:00 Welcome to Set Lusting Bruce + Meet Author Sara Goodman Canino 00:53 From Teacher to Full-Time Writer: Beyond the Palace Origins 03:54 Growing Up with Books & Classic Rock (and Early Bruce Memories) 05:24 The Springsteen Mix CD That Got Her Through Grief 10:13 Writing Strong Women & Finding Her Voice (Humor, Publishing, Historical Fiction) 13:29 Jewish Joy on the Page: Representation Beyond Trauma 16:28 Intergenerational Healing: The Mother-in-Law Story Behind Good Grief 19:24 New Release Spotlight: Off the Record—Jewish Romcom Meets Cold War Spy Thriller 23:00 Why the Early '60s Still Matters: Women's Rights, Research, and Remembering History 27:34 Why These Stories Matter (Especially for Younger Readers) 29:04 Next Novel Tease: The 1964 DC Beatles Show + A Photographer's Big Break 31:12 Switching Gears to Bruce: The ‘Dance with Jake' Sign & Getting Pulled Onstage 34:20 Counting Shows & Favorite Springsteen Songs (Born to Run, Backstreets, Sandy) 37:29 Have You Met Bruce? Mailing Him a Book + The New Jersey Cameo 39:27 Family Concert Memories: Dad, Uncle, and the Legendary Ticket Scores 42:46 What's Next as a Writer: Secret Projects, Building an Audience & Future Horror Book 44:09 Thunder Road Debate: Does Mary Get in the Car? (Plus ‘Waves' vs ‘Sways') 44:58 Where to Find Sara: Socials, Website, Buying Options & Final Wrap-Up Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse Jackson welcomes back author **Ann Abel**, whose memoir *High Hopes* Jesse calls one of his favorite reads of 2025. Abel—who discovered Bruce Springsteen at age 59—shares the extraordinary story behind her book: how a lifetime of severe depression, the loss of her teaching career, and a desperate need for structure pushed her to book a solo trip to Australia for **eight Springsteen shows across five cities in 26 days**. What began as an escape from “the abyss” became a journey of fear, resilience, connection, and unexpected joy. Ann recounts: - **Battling self‑doubt and loneliness** while navigating a foreign country alone - A terrifying night stranded after the Hunter Valley show when her driver vanished and her flip phone died - Quiet, intimate moments of being “invisible” in hotel lobbies near E Street Band members - Meeting Bruce's longtime manager **Barbara Carr**, the conversations that followed, and the fundraiser where Ann won a silent auction to **co‑host SiriusXM's E Street Radio with Dave Marsh** - The months of intense rock‑history study she undertook to prepare—and the unforgettable on‑air moment when she corrected a punk‑rock attribution - How storytelling open mics and winning a **Moth StorySLAM** helped her break through writer's block and finally write *High Hopes* - Seeing the Springsteen movie and feeling deeply validated hearing Bruce speak openly about struggle - The concert moments that changed her life, including “Dream Baby Dream” and Bruce's reminder that “It's all right to have a good time” Ann also talks about her recent **TEDx talk**, her unexpected rise as a late‑in‑life social‑media creator with **750,000 followers and multiple viral videos**, her upcoming travels, and the joy of becoming a grandparent. She closes by sharing where listeners can follow her work online. This is an episode about music, survival, reinvention, and the way Bruce Springsteen's art can crack open a life at any age. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feeling the pinch from ticket prices? Remember, wisdom can be found in every decision. Don't miss my take on making peace with concert costs and loving the music, wherever you are!

"I've got a battle ahead with prostate cancer, but with an excellent prognosis and your support, I'm ready. Join me in spreading love, sending good vibes, and sharing tunes for my F Cancer playlist.

Join host Jesse Jackson on a new episode of 'Set Lusting Bruce' as he steps off the Bruce train for a chat with rock journalist Martin Popoff. Together, they delve into Popoff's latest book, 'KISS 76: 12 Months that Define the Hottest Band in the Land.' The episode covers KISS's massive year in 1976, including iconic tours, releases, and cultural impact. Martin also shares his journey from heavy metal fandom to becoming a prolific rock historian, and discusses his unique podcast 'History in Five Songs.' Whether you're a die-hard KISS fan or just love rock history, this episode is a must-listen! https://a.co/d/0hmrKt9E 00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome 01:53 Guest Introduction and Background 03:10 Early Musical Influences and First Concerts 05:09 The Concept of Perfect Music 07:21 Latest Book: KISS 76 08:40 KISS in 1976: A Year in Review 17:40 KISS's Live Performances and Touring 25:11 The Ed Sullivan Moment and KISS's Influence 26:30 KISS's Unique Sound and Comparisons 29:01 Controversies and Public Perception 33:32 The Podcast and Writing Journey 37:31 Favorite Albums and Musical Preferences 39:13 The Mary Question and Final Thoughts 42:48 Outro and Housekeeping Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Jesse Jackson welcomes Lou and Karen for a JKL Media tie-in discussion of the 2025 film "Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere," directed by Scott Cooper and based on Warren Zanes' book about the making of Bruce Springsteen's "Nebraska." They praise Jeremy Allen White's performance as Springsteen and Jeremy Strong's portrayal of manager Jon Landau, but debate who the movie is meant for—hardcore fans versus casual viewers—given its quiet focus on depression, trauma, and the Nebraska era rather than the E Street Band or the more widely known "Born in the U.S.A." period. Lou, less familiar with "Nebraska," finds the film surface-level, criticizing thin characterization (including Springsteen's father, played by Stephen Graham), a cutaway from a key therapy scene, minimal exploration of individual songs, and the E Street Band's near-silent portrayal. Karen also notes the story can feel generic without deeper Springsteen context, wishes the film emphasized Springsteen's mother and band dynamics more, and argues the romantic subplot involving the composite character “Faye” feels unnecessary. Jesse provides background on how the project came to be, shares lore and real-life parallels (including Springsteen's first psychiatrist visit and a later conversation with his father), and agrees the movie is a mixed bag that likely lands best for viewers who know the book and backstory. 00:00 Welcome + Why This Springsteen Movie Feels Like a Question Mark 01:42 First Reactions: Performances, Expectations, and ‘Who Is This For?' 03:13 How the Film Got Made: Warren Zanes, Scott Cooper, and Bruce Saying Yes 04:29 Nebraska vs. Born in the U.S.A.: The Era Casual Fans Don't Know 06:13 Book vs. Movie + The Film's Quiet, Depression-Focused Tone 08:36 The ‘Love Story' Angle: Bruce & Manager Jon Landau 12:43 Lou's Critique: Transactional Scenes and Dodging the Therapy Breakthrough 15:17 Bruce's Father (Stephen Graham) + Missing Depth and Backstory 17:11 Where's the E Street Band? Collaboration Erased on Screen 19:33 Karen's Take: Generic Biopic Vibes, Lore-Heavy Story Choice, and What's Missing 24:32 The Ending with Bruce's Dad: Lap Scene, Payoff Without Buildup, and Real-Life Context 30:28 Family Wounds & the Film's Emotional Core (Bruce and His Dad) 30:49 Who Is This Movie For? The Faye Romance Debate 31:51 Mustard-Gate & Other Fan-Accuracy Nitpicks 32:56 What the Movie Should've Shown: E Street Band & Studio Depth 34:39 Mixed Bag Reception: Highlights, Awards, and What Worked 35:35 Lou's Non‑Sequitur Notes: Wasted Characters, Song Talk, and Stephen King Links 39:16 Karen's Final Thoughts: Music Choices, Badlands, and Missed Potential 45:02 Wrap-Up, Next Watches, and Where to Find Everyone 48:30 Podcast Outro & Housekeeping: Contact Info and Other Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Allen and Jesse do a dive deep into the influence of Bruce Springsteen's 'Nebraska' album on the lo-fi music movement and Alan's personal connection to the record. Alan shares how the album inspired him and his brother to create their own lo-fi recordings and discusses the broader impact on indie rock in the '90s. The conversation also touches on Springsteen's approach to the album, the emotional depth of lo-fi recordings, and Alan's current musical projects. Tune in for a compelling discussion about the enduring legacy of 'Nebraska' and the lo-fi genre. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:57 Discovering Bruce Springsteen's 'Nebraska' 02:49 The Influence of Lo-Fi Recording 04:17 Impact of 'Nebraska' on Music and Personal Life 07:47 Discussion on the 'Nebraska' Movie 10:05 Springsteen's Influence on Indie and Alternative Music 23:18 Future of Bruce Springsteen's Music 25:39 Guest's Current Projects and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson welcomes back Scott Shea for a deep dive into the music and legacy of Sam Cooke. They discuss Cooke's impact on gospel, R&B, and pop music, his untimely death, and his influence on other artists. The episode also touches on Bruce Springsteen's career, including their thoughts on the 'electric' version of Nebraska and Brian Wilson's 'Smile.' Scott offers insights from his latest articles and shares exciting news about his upcoming book on Waylon Jennings. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:29 Scott's Career Update 02:00 Discussion on the New Pope 03:24 Sam Cooke's Musical Journey 09:52 Sam Cooke's Death and Legacy 16:33 Lou Rawls and Sam Cooke's Influence 18:48 Sam Cooke's Business Ventures 19:18 The Legacy of SAR Records 20:15 Exploring Sam Cooke's Greatest Hits 21:12 Cover Versions and Tributes to Sam Cooke 23:23 Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska and Its Impact 24:05 The Unreleased Gems of Music Legends 29:47 Brian Wilson's Smile: A Masterpiece Revisited 32:24 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson welcomes Mike Gendler to discuss the world of tribute bands, podcasting, and their shared love for Bruce Springsteen. Mike, a lifelong musician and entrepreneur, shares his journey from playing the piano and drums in his Philadelphia home to founding a successful entertainment company and starting the Tribute Band Sessions podcast. Learn about Mike's unique experiences, such as playing at a private party for Pink Floyd and the nuances of recreating the authentic sounds of iconic bands. They also delve into why tribute bands have gained popularity and the importance of both musical fidelity and live performance energy. Tune in for engaging stories and insightful discussions on the art of tribute bands. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:39 Mike's Musical Journey 02:49 Early Career Highlights 04:18 Family Influence and Musical Inspirations 08:48 Tribute Bands and Podcasting 09:31 The Business of Tribute Bands 19:03 Surprising Moments and Celebrity Encounters 22:00 The Passion of Rock Stars 23:07 The Popularity of Tribute Bands 24:32 Setting Up the Perfect Set List 28:10 Mimicking the Original Band 33:17 Bruce Springsteen Stories 39:31 Final Thoughts and The Mary Question Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a surprise release on social media, Bruce Springsteen dropped a powerful new song, 'Streets of Minneapolis,' addressing systemic injustices and calling out the misuse of power by federal agencies. Without the usual fanfare of a major artist release, Springsteen's direct and unapologetic ballad highlights the names of those who died on Minneapolis streets and critiques the current behavior of enforcement agencies like ICE. The song serves as both a reminder and a warning that silence in the face of injustice is complicity, urging all to raise their voices against systemic inequities and abuse of power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices