As Bruce Springsteen performs to massive crowds in four different locations across Ireland, why do the Irish people love the Boss so much? 

Springsteen will perform in Croke Park this evening, with gates opening at 5pm.  

This performance follows three gigs in Cork, Kilkenny and Belfast, all to massive crowds of Irish fans. 

It begs the question of how Springsteen has managed to charm such large Irish crowds year after year, after six decades in the business. 

Superfan and journalist Lise Hand told The Anton Savage Show the love between the Boss and the Irish runs deep, all the way to Co Meath.

“It probably all started with Slane [in 1985] to a huge extent,” she said. 

“I was old enough to go [and] I snuck into the gig – so Bruce, I owe you £12. 

“It was one of those really special days, the most perfect temperature, beautiful backdrop, he was at the absolute top of his game. 

Bruce Springsteen and The E-Streetband performing in Slane Castle in, Ireland. 01-06-1985. Image: Gerard van Bree / Alamy Stock Photo

“Remember Ireland in the 1980s was a pretty dismal place, very grey, big recession. 

“A lot of bands didn’t come here – and then you get this absolute legend playing at this beautiful backdrop. 

“When you talk to people about this gig, they actually remember it in terms of colour, sun, happiness.” 

For the love of Springsteen

Arts journalist Pat Carty agreed, noting that Springsteen has often called Slane an important gig for himself as well. 

“It was the first massive gig he did outside the US,” he said, noting his uncle was a chef in Slane Castle when Springsteen came. 

“The night before he did the gig, he was nervous and a did a full rehearsal inside in the castle and the staff got to watch. 

“He dined out on that story for years.” 

Bruce Springsteen and The E-Streetband performing in Slane Castle in, Ireland. 01-06-1985. Image: Gerard van Bree / Alamy Stock Photo

Ms Hand also noted many people go to multiple gigs on the same tour because he often “mixes it up”. 

Aiken Promotions has advised fans to arrive in Croke Park by 7pm, as Springsteen and the E Street Band do not have an opening act. 

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