June 8, 2023 by Klaus Crow
Welcome to the ultimate compilation of the “Top 20 Best Bruce Springsteen songs for Guitar” including Chords and Tabs! The legendary rock ‘n’ roll icon, has gifted us with an impressive catalog of music that showcases his remarkable songwriting and guitar work.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to his music, this list is designed to guide you through some of the most iconic songs. From easy beginner songs to more intermediate level, it’s all here for you to enjoy and improve your guitar game.
To make the most of this list, start by listening to each song on the list, immersing yourself in the melodies, lyrics, and the guitar parts. Pay attention to the different techniques and styles Springsteen incorporates in his playing, from energetic rock riffs to soulful acoustic strumming.
Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the songs, it’s time to make yourself a hot cappuccino or a hot cup of green tea, which both have real great health benefits in their own unique way :)
Now pick a few songs to practice. Choose songs that resonate with you personally or those you’ve always wanted to learn. Rather than attempting to tackle all 20 songs at once, select a handful that align with your skill level and interests. This approach allows you to focus your practice and truly master the songs you choose.
Have a blast!
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Born to Run
“Born to Run” is an iconic rock anthem by Bruce Springsteen, released in 1975 on the album of the same name. During the recording of the song Springsteen used a Fender Esquire guitar and a Fender Deluxe Reverb amplifier.
The combination of the Esquire’s single-coil pickups and the warm, tube-driven tones of the Deluxe Reverb contributed to the powerful and dynamic sound heard on the track.
The song is in the key of E major and follows a 4/4 time signature with a tempo of approximately 148 BPM. The song’s chord progression starts out with E – A – B and follows with some sus4 chords and slash chords accompanied by a distinctive and energetic song riff.
The strumming pattern can be played as: down-down-up-up-down-up, and occasional accents to capture the driving rhythm of the song.
Born to run original Chords and Tabs
Thunder Road
Thunder Road is written by Bruce Springsteen and released in 1975 on the album “Born to Run,” “Thunder Road” is a heartfelt song about redemption, choices, and embarking on a journey toward a better future.
The song is in the key of F major and played in a 4/4 time signature with a tempo of 123 BPM. The chord progression centers around F, C, G, and D, with variations and inversions. The strumming pattern for is a classic and steady down-up pattern. It can be described as follows: D D U U D U The mond harmonica intro and sax solo in the middle of the song can also be played with a beautiful lead guitar solo.
Dancing in the dark
“Dancing in the Dark,” was released in 1984 as a single and peaked at number 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and spent 26 weeks on the chart. The song explores the themes of frustration, longing for connection, and ultimately finding joy in breaking free through dancing.
The song is in the key of D and follows a 4/4 time signature at a tempo of around 148 BPM. The song primarily utilizes the chords A, D, and E, with variations and transitions. While the song features a catchy synthesizer riff, on guitar, you can emulate it by playing the main chord progression with added embellishments and fills.
The river
The River” is a poignant ballad by Bruce Springsteen, released in 1980 on the album of the same name. The song reflects on the struggles of working-class individuals and explores themes of love, dreams, and the passage of time.
“The River” follows a chord progression of G, C, D, and Em, with variations and transitions. The song is played in the key of G major, in a 4/4 time signature. With a tempo of around 80 BPM, the strumming pattern for “The River” can be described as a gentle down-down-up-up-down-up rhythm.
While the song doesn’t have a distinct guitar riff, you can add depth by incorporating arpeggios or fingerpicking patterns.
Badlands
“Badlands” is an energetic rock anthem by Bruce Springsteen, released in 1978 on the album “Darkness on the Edge of Town.” and reached #42 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song captures a sense of defiance and determination, inspiring listeners to overcome obstacles and seize opportunities.
“Badlands” features a driving chord progression of G, D, C, and F. The song is played in the key of G major, in a 4/4 time signature. With a tempo of 145 BPM, the strumming pattern can be played with a common down-down-up-up-down-up rhythm, emphasizing the strong beats.
Additionally, “Badlands” boasts a memorable guitar riff characterized by fast-paced single-note runs, which you can practice using alternate picking techniques.
Jungle Land
Jungleland” is an epic song by Bruce Springsteen, released in 1975 on the album “Born to Run.” For this song Springsteen used a Fender Telecaster guitar and a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp to achieve his signature tone.The lyrics tells a vivid story of street life, love, and dreams, with a cinematic quality that takes the listener on a musical journey.
The song features 16 different chords throughout the song and is played in the key of C. The tempo is around 68 BPM, and follows a 4/4 strumming pattern. Additionally, “Jungleland” showcases a beautiful saxophone solo that just as well can be played as a lead guitar riff ;)
Streets of Philadelphia
“Streets of Philadelphia” is a poignant song written and performed by Bruce Springsteen for the film “Philadelphia” in 1993, it reached #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.The song captures the isolation and longing of a person navigating the challenging streets of the city, while also conveying a sense of resilience and hope.
For the recording of “Streets of Philadelphia,” Bruce Springsteen used an acoustic guitar, specifically a Martin HD-28, to create the intimate and delicate sound of the song.
The song is in the key of F and uses the chords F, Am, Bb, C, D, Dm, F#m, G and A. It follows a 4/4 time signature, and has a tempo of around 58 BPM.
The strumming pattern for the song can be a gentle down-up-down-up-down-up rhythm. Use the chords and strumming pattern as a foundation, and feel free to add your own embellishments and nuances to make the song your own.
Remember to listen to the original recording for reference and to immerse yourself in the introspective atmosphere of “Streets of Philadelphia.”
Streets of Philadelphia Chords
Born in the U.S.A.
Born in the U.S.A.” is a patriotic and politically charged song written by Bruce Springsteen. Released in 1984 on the album of the same name, the song tackles themes of the Vietnam War, the struggles of working-class Americans, and the disillusionment faced by veterans returning home.
During the recording of “Born in the U.S.A.,” Bruce Springsteen used a Fender Telecaster guitar, specifically a modified Esquire, along with a Fender Deluxe Reverb amplifier to get that gritty and energetic guitar tone heard on the track.
The chords for the song are B5 and E5, but can also be played easy with A and D using the capo on the 2nd fret. The song is in the key of B major, follows a 4/4 time signature, and has a tempo of around 122 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song can be a driving [down]-[down]-[down]-[down up], counting [1]-[2]-[3]-[4&].
“Born in the U.S.A.” features a memorable guitar riff that opens the song, characterized by its simple but catchy melody. As you play, pay attention to the dynamics and the explosive moments in the song, experiment with different strumming variations and add your own flair to make the song come alive on the guitar.
Atlantic City
Atlantic City” is a haunting and introspective song written by Bruce Springsteen in 1982 and released on the album “Nebraska” in the same year, featuring a stripped-down acoustic sound recorded with a Martin D-18 that captures the raw emotions. It explores themes of economic hardship, desperation, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
The chords used in “Atlantic City” are Em, G, C and D using the capo on the 2nd fret. The song follows a 4/4 time signature, and has a moderate tempo of around 94 BPM. The strumming pattern can be a gentle down-up-down-up motion, emphasizing the steady rhythm of the song.
I’m on fire
“I’m on Fire” was written in 1982 and released on the album “Born in the U.S.A.” in 1984, showcasing a more subdued and intimate side of Springsteen’s songwriting. Th song is about desire and longing, with Springsteen’s vocals conveying a sense of quiet intensity.
During the recording of “I’m on Fire,” Bruce Springsteen used a Fender Esquire electric guitar, known for its bright and twangy tone.
The chords used in “I’m on Fire” are E, A, B7, and C#m. The song is in the key of E major, follows a 4/4 time signature, and has a slow tempo of around 84 BPM. The strumming pattern can be played with a gentle down-up-down-up motion, counting 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &.
Focus on playing the chords smoothly and cleanly, allowing the song’s intimate atmosphere to shine through.
Racing in the street
“Racing in the Street” tells the story of a man consumed by the fast-paced world of street racing and the empty void it leaves in his life. The song was written by Springsteen and released in 1978 on the album “Darkness on the Edge of Town,” showcasing Springsteen’s narrative songwriting style and emotional depth.
For the recording of “Racing in the Street,” Bruce used a Fender Telecaster electric guitar. The guitar was likely plugged into a Fender Twin Reverb amplifier, providing a clean and rich sound. The song was recorded in 1977 at the Record Plant in New York City. While it was not released as a single, “Racing in the Street” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Springsteen’s live performances.
The chords for “Racing in the Street” are C – F – Dm played with the cap on the 5th fret or you can played it originally with the chords D – G – Em with the capo on the 3rd fret. The song is in the key of F major, follows a 4/4 time signature, and has a tempo of 94 BPM. The strumming pattern can be a soft down-down-up-up-down-up motion, allowing the lyrics to take center stage and keeping the guitar on the background.
Backstreets
Backstreets” is a heartfelt and introspective song written by Bruce Springsteen. The song was recorded in 1974 at the Record Plant in New York City where Springsteen primarily used a Fender Telecaster during the recording and it was released in 1975 on his iconic album “Born to Run.”
The chords used in “Backstreets” are G, Em, D, C, Am, F#m and B7 The song is in the key of G major, follows a 4/4 time signature at 110 BPM. The strumming pattern can be a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes, emphasizing the driving rhythm and accentuating the emotional intensity of the lyrics.
Take your time to learn the chord progression thoroughly paying attention to the articulation and dynamics as you play the song.
Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out
“Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out” is a lively and soulful track by Bruce Springsteen that tells the story of the formation of his legendary E Street Band. Springsteen wrote the song as a tribute to his bandmates and their journey in the music industry. It was released in 1975 on the album “Born to Run.”
The song reached number 83 on the Billboard Hot 100 and it has since become a beloved staple of Springsteen’s live performances.
Chords used in “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out” according to Ultimate Guitar are F, D, Bb, Gm, C and D. The time signature is 4/4, and the tempo is around 130 BPM. The strumming pattern consists of a steady down-up motion throughout the song.
Tenth Avenue Freeze-out chords
Hungry heart
Hungry Heart” is a catchy and upbeat song by Bruce Springsteen that tells the story of a restless and yearning protagonist seeking love and adventure. Springsteen wrote the song and it was released in 1980 on the album “The River.” On the charts, “Hungry Heart” became one of Springsteen’s biggest hits, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100.
“Hungry Heart” uses simple chords C – Am – Dm7 – G7 using the capo on the 1st fret. Later on the song modulates to the chord progression Eb – Cm – Fm – Bb. The key of the song is C# major, the time signature is 4/4, played at 140 BPM. The strumming pattern follows a straightforward down-up-down-up-down-up-down-up, counting 1-and-2-and-3-and-4-and. You can also experiment with adding rhythmic variations, such as palm muting or accentuating certain beats, to make your playing more dynamic and engaging.
Brilliant Disguise
“Brilliant Disguise” is an introspective and emotionally charged song by Bruce Springsteen. Written by Springsteen himself, it was released in 1987 as part of the album “Tunnel of Love.” The song reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a significant hit for Springsteen.
The chords for “Brilliant Disguise” are A, Asus2, Asus4, E, Esus2, F#m and D. The key of the song is A major, the time signature is 4/4, and the tempo is around 72 BPM. The strumming pattern can be played with solely downstrokes in eight notes maintaining a steady pace.
Nebraska
“Nebraska” is a ballad written by Bruce Springsteen. Released in 1982 on the album of the same name, the song tells the chilling story of Charles Starkweather, a real-life spree killer. It was recorded using a Gibson J-45 acoustic guitar and a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp. Although not released as a single, the “Nebraska” album reached number three on the Billboard 200 chart.
The chords used in “Nebraska” are A, E, D, G, and Bm. The song is in the key of A major, in a 4/4 time signature with a tempo of 80 BPM. The strumming pattern follows a steady downstroke on each beat, emphasizing the song’s somber atmosphere. To practice this song effectively, focus on mastering the chord changes and maintaining a consistent rhythm.
Prove it all night
“Prove It All Night” is a spirited rock anthem written by Bruce Springsteen. The song was released in 1978 on the album “Darkness on the Edge of Town,Springsteen recorded the track using a Fender Telecaster guitar and a Vox AC30 amplifier. The recording features a powerful guitar solo and energetic instrumentation. Although it didn’t chart as a single, the “Darkness on the Edge of Town” album reached number five on the Billboard 200 chart.
The chords for the song are D, E, A, Bm, F#m, and C#m. The song is in the key of A major, in a 4/4 time signature with a tempo of 144 BPM. The strumming pattern starts with a downstroke followed by two quick upstrokes, and then another downstroke. It can be notated as DUD-D. Experiment with accenting certain beats and infusing your playing with Springsteen’s passionate spirit ;)
The Ghost of Tom Joad
“The Ghost of Tom Joad” is a powerful folk-rock song written by Bruce Springsteen. Released in 1995 as the title track of his album, it addresses the struggles of working-class Americans and draws inspiration from John Steinbeck’s novel “The Grapes of Wrath.” Although it didn’t make a significant impact on the charts, the album received critical acclaim for its social commentary.
The chords used in “The Ghost of Tom Joad” are Am, Am/G, C, F, G, E, A, D and B. The song is in the key of A minor, in a 4/4 time signature with a tempo of 86 BPM. The strumming pattern follows a downstroke on each beat with occasional upstrokes to add dynamics. It can be notated as D-DU-DU. To practice this song, focus on mastering the chord changes, maintaining a steady rhythm, and capturing the song’s emotional depth through expressive strumming.
No Surrender
“No Surrender” is an uplifting rock anthem written by Bruce Springsteen. Released in 1984 on his album “Born in the U.S.A.,” he wrote it as a tribute to the enduring spirit of rock and roll. The recording features a Rickenbacker 12-string guitar and a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp. “No Surrender” reached number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming a fan favorite at live performances.
The chords used in “No Surrender” are D, G, A, F, C and Bb. The song is in the key of D major, in a 4/4 time signature with a tempo of 147 BPM. The strumming pattern involves a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes, it can be notated as D-DU-UDU.
The Rising
“The Rising” is a heartfelt song written by Bruce Springsteen. Released in 2002 as the title track of his album, it serves as a tribute to the victims and heroes of the September 11 attacks. The song was written as a message of resilience and hope in the face of tragedy.
Springsteen recorded it using a Fender Telecaster guitar and a Vox AC30 amplifier, capturing the song’s emotional intensity. “The Rising” peaked at number 52 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The chords used in “The Rising” are C, G, D, and Em with capo on the 3rd fret. The song is in the key of D major, in a 4/4 time signature with a tempo of 72 BPM. The strumming pattern consists of mainly downstrokes, with occasional upstrokes for added dynamics. It can be notated as D-D-D-DU, counting 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 and.
Conclusion
As we reach the end of our journey through the Top 20 Best Bruce Springsteen songs and how to practice them, remember that the true magic lies in capturing the essence of Springsteen’s music. It’s about finding your own voice within his heartfelt lyrics and infectious melodies.
So, keep strumming, keep practicing, and you’ll soon be rocking the stage like The Boss himself. Chase your musical dreams and never stop believing in the magic of Springsteen’s songs. Let the music continue to inspire and uplift your soul.
Rock on!
Let me know your favorite Bruce Springsteen song in the comments below. I’d love to hear it.
Check out the official chords and Tabs in the “Bruce Springsteen – Guitar Anthology Series”
Favorite Tom Petty song? Hard to pick just one. It’s a toss up between Honey Bee and Time to Move On.
Hi Dan,
Love those songs on the wildflower album.
Thanks for sharing even though it’s in the comment section of the Top 20 Best Bruce Springsteen Songs ;)
For the folks who want to check out the Tom Petty list, here it is:
https://www.guitarhabits.com/top-10-best-tom-petty-guitar-songs/