Bruce Springsteen aids in the revival of a long-forgotten 1960s musician
blind spot in the history of rock n’ roll that often goes underappreciated is the era of the early 1960s. This period marked a transitional phase between the iconic Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard era, and the rise of bands like the Beatles and Bob Dylan. It was a time characterized by doo-wop, country tunes, Chubby Checker’s dance hits, and the popularity of instrumental surf guitar. One artist who thrived during this time was Gary U.S. Bonds, known for his chart-topping singles like ‘School Is Out’, ‘New Orleans’, and ‘Quarter to Three’, the latter two of which even made it to the Top 20 in the UK. In fact, the Beatles opened for Bonds during his European tour in 1963, highlighting his influence and success during this underappreciated era.
As the music landscape shifted, Bonds found himself relegated to the “oldies” category, with his sound being considered outdated and out of touch with the changing times. However, in a garage in Asbury Park, New Jersey, a young group of musicians led by Bruce Springsteen were inspired by the energy and infectious tunes of Gary U.S. Bonds. Springsteen, with his E Street Band, incorporated elements of Bonds’ music into their own sound, evident in the saxophone-infused numbers reminiscent of Bonds’ style.
Springsteen and Bonds crossed paths in the late 1970s, with Bonds initially unaware of Springsteen’s rising stardom. It was only when Springsteen and Steve Van Zandt attended one of Bonds’ shows at a small club in New Jersey that Bonds realized the level of fame that Springsteen had achieved. The encounter led to a budding friendship between the two artists, resulting in a collaboration on Bonds’ comeback albums, Dedication and On the Line in the early 1980s. The track ‘This Little Girl’, released in 1981 and spurred by Springsteen’s involvement, marked Bonds’ return to the charts after almost two decades, reigniting his career and introducing him to a new generation of listeners.
Reflecting on his renewed success, Bonds acknowledged the impact of Springsteen’s influence on his career and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with audiences. Despite being labeled as an “oldie”, Bonds found acceptance and appreciation from fans who valued his enduring talent and energetic performances. Springsteen and Bonds would team up again on Bonds’ 2004 album, ‘Back in 20’, paying homage to the cycles of fame and revival that marked Bonds’ illustrious career.
At 86 years old, Bonds continues to perform live, maintaining the stage name that was created for him over 70 years ago. His legacy as a pioneering black pop star, revitalized by the support and collaboration of Bruce Springsteen, remains a testament to the enduring power of music and the ability to transcend generations. Bonds’ resilience and passion for performing are a reminder that great music knows no age, and talent is timeless.