The true test of a "Bruce Springsteen fan" is their knowledge about the song "Born in the U.S.A." Casual fans have heard the song and think it is a feel good anthem about being proud to be from the United States. Former President Ronald Reagan would fall into this group by using the song in his re-election campaign and not even realizing that the song is about the morally evil, sad side of America and the abandonment of Vietnam veterans.Long story short, having "Born in the U.S.A." dedicated to you in concert would not be a good thing...although I've never heard them say they are Springsteen fans, you've got to think that Bob Costas and Brian Williams are smart enough to figure out "Born in the U.S.A." is not a positive, feel good song. This didn't stop Costas and Williams tripping over themselves to tell Michael Phelps of this "honor" that Springsteen gave him last Friday after winning his 7th gold medal. The problem is it never happened...Bruce never dedicated the song.
Now if I had "Blinded by the Light" dedicated to me, I would be proud.
Bruce Springsteen -- Born in the U.S.A.
From the Greatest Hits album.
Bruce Springsteen -- Born in the U.S.A. [Demo Version]
From the Tracks collection.
