The Rising in D.C.

Almost two weeks ago, I finally experienced something I'd been meaning to do for years: see Bruce Springsteen in concert. I’ve been a huge fan for decades, but somehow never made it to one of his shows. There were plenty of expectations and I can easily say that the reality exceeded all of them.

From the moment Bruce and the E Street Band took the stage at Nats Park, it felt less like a concert and more like a gathering of thousands of people connected by the same songs, stories, and hope. The energy that Springsteen and the band (including the amazing Tom Morello) brought was palpable. Each member added something of their own to each song. Little Steve and Nils Lofgren were perfect on guitar; Max Weinberg didn’t just keep a steady beat, but took over on some songs; Jake Clemons made his uncle Clarence proud by belting out note after note on his saxophone; and every “revival meeting” needs a choir and the E Street Choir was just that, helping lead the crowd in singing along, song after song.

Of all the songs performed that night, "The Rising" hit me the hardest. I've always loved the song, but hearing it live was something else entirely. As Bruce sang about resilience, hope, and finding your way through darkness, like living through this current administration, the song seemed to take on an even deeper meaning. If "The Rising" was the emotional heart of the evening, "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out" was its celebration. A song that dates back to tell the story of the origin of the band, it sounds just as fresh in 2026 as it did 50 years ago. The performance felt like a tribute not only to the E Street Band but also to the fans who have carried these songs with them through different chapters of their lives. And then there was "Death to My Hometown," which exploded from the stage with an intensity that reminded everyone that Bruce can still channel anger and conviction as powerfully as ever. The song felt especially relevant, with the White House just a few minutes away.

(Check out my Spotify playlist, Springsteen Setlist - 5/27/26, of the setlist from that night)

What came up over and over as I watched this band for 3+ hours was how much energy and passion Springsteen and the band have. This was a very personal show for thousands. From the time the first note blasted through the stadium, until the last note faded out, I wasn't just watching a performance; I was participating in something bigger. The songs I've listened to for years suddenly had new life and new meaning. By the time I made it home, I finally understood what longtime Springsteen fans have known all along: these concerts aren't just shows. They're shared experiences that stay with you long after you've left.