Bruce Springsteen is known for his evocative storytelling, heartland rock anthems, and indelible presence in the music world. But with his upcoming covers album Only The Strong Survive, he’s setting out on a thrilling, soulful detour that has everyone talking. Springsteen’s tribute to the golden age of soul music is more than just a collection of covers; it’s a deep, heartfelt exploration of the genre that has long influenced his career. With the full tracklist now revealed, we’re given a clearer sense of what this exciting new project will entail, and trust us, it’s a journey worth taking.
A First Taste of Soul: “Do I Love You (Indeed I Do)” and “Nightshift”
Before we dive into the full tracklist, let’s recap the two tracks Springsteen has already shared.
“Do I Love You (Indeed I Do)” — First released by Frank Wilson in 1965, this Motown gem has always been a bit of a cult classic. It’s a deep cut, not the usual soul hit you’d expect to see on a mainstream album, and that’s exactly why it’s such a perfect choice for Springsteen’s soul exploration. His rendition brings a new energy while honoring the track’s original spirit, setting the tone for what’s to come.
Then came “Nightshift”, originally by The Commodores. This 1985 track was a tribute to the late Marvin Gaye and Jackie Wilson, and Springsteen’s version captures its emotional depth with reverence and passion. These two early releases provide a glimpse into the heart of Only The Strong Survive—a collection that’s as much about respect for soul’s history as it is about Springsteen’s unique take on these timeless songs.
The Complete Only The Strong Survive Tracklist: A Soulful Journey
Now, let’s get to the moment you’ve been waiting for—the full tracklist of Only The Strong Survive. Get ready for a deep dive into some of the most iconic and beloved soul classics from artists like Jerry Butler, The Temptations, and Diana Ross & The Supremes. Here’s the full list:
- Only the Strong Survive (Jerry Butler)
- Soul Days (featuring Sam Moore) (Dobie Gray)
- Nightshift (Commodores)
- Do I Love You (Indeed I Do) (Frank Wilson)
- The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine Anymore (Frankie Valli, popularized by The Walker Brothers)
- Turn Back the Hands of Time (Tyrone Davis)
- When She Was My Girl (Four Tops)
- Hey, Western Union Man (Jerry Butler)
- I Wish It Would Rain (The Temptations)
- Don’t Play That Song (Ben E. King)
- Any Other Way (William Bell)
- I Forgot to Be Your Lover (featuring Sam Moore) (William Bell)
- 7 Rooms of Gloom (Four Tops)
- What Becomes of the Brokenhearted (Jimmy Ruffin)
- Someday We’ll Be Together (Diana Ross & the Supremes)
A Treasure Trove of Soul Classics
This tracklist is a treasure trove of soul music history, spanning a wide array of styles, themes, and emotional textures. From the smooth grooves of Tyrone Davis to the heart-wrenching longing in Jimmy Ruffin's “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted”, Springsteen pulls from across the spectrum of soul’s golden era.
What’s especially exciting is the mix of hits and hidden gems. Sure, you’ll hear the familiar sounds of The Temptations and The Four Tops, but Springsteen isn’t afraid to go deeper into the catalog. He taps into songs like “Hey, Western Union Man” by Jerry Butler, a track that’s less mainstream but rich with soul’s timeless power. And let’s not forget “Soul Days”, which features the legendary Sam Moore—a duet that promises to bring even more authenticity to the album’s already soulful atmosphere.
What to Expect from Springsteen’s Interpretations
One of the most intriguing questions surrounding Only The Strong Survive is how Springsteen will approach these iconic tracks. Will he stick closely to the originals, or will he inject his signature rock energy into them? Based on the two tracks we've already heard, it’s clear that Springsteen is finding a sweet balance.
With “Do I Love You (Indeed I Do),” he stays remarkably faithful to the original while adding just a hint of his own unique phrasing and vocal texture. On “Nightshift,” his interpretation is deeply respectful but still vibrantly Springsteen—a bit grittier, perhaps, but no less emotional.
Expect him to bring a sense of reverence and passion to these classics, honoring their original essence while injecting his own interpretation into each one. After all, Springsteen has never been one to shy away from reimagining the past with his own lens, and Only The Strong Survive looks set to continue that tradition.
Only The Strong Survive: A Must-Hear Album
With the full tracklist now in hand, the anticipation for Only The Strong Survive has reached new heights. This album is more than just a covers project; it’s a celebration of soul music in all its forms—a genre that has shaped Springsteen’s artistry in ways both subtle and profound. Through this album, he’s honoring the legends that paved the way, while also showing us just how far-reaching the influence of soul truly is.
So, what can you expect? A thrilling journey through some of the greatest songs in music history, reinterpreted by one of rock’s greatest icons. Mark your calendars—Only The Strong Survive is set to drop on November 11th. If you’re a fan of soul music, Bruce Springsteen, or just incredible music in general, this is an album you won’t want to miss.
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