Bruce Springsteen Pays Tribute to Robbie Robertson of The Band in Chicago Concert
Bruce Springsteen, legendary rock icon, paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Robbie Robertson during the E Street Band’s electrifying performance at Chicago’s iconic Wrigley Field. The audience was moved as Springsteen dedicated his closing performance of “I’ll See You in My Dreams” to his dear friend Robertson, who passed away in Los Angeles at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. Robbie Robertson, renowned as the lead guitarist and songwriter of The Band, leaves behind a musical legacy that has touched generations.
Hailing from Toronto, Robertson gifted the world with timeless classics such as “The Weight” and “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.” The Band, with Robertson and Garth Hudson as the two surviving members, gained widespread recognition for their exceptional contributions, first as the backing band for Ronnie Hawkins and later as Bob Dylan’s collaborators in the ’60s. Their impact on music was indelible, leading to their well-deserved induction into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.
Robbie Robertson’s recent accomplishment was completing the soundtrack for the highly anticipated film “Killers of the Flower Moon.” This project showcases his continued creativity and commitment to the craft even in his later years, leaving a lasting imprint on the entertainment world.
Notably, Springsteen shares a parallel journey with Robertson, honing his musical skills on the Jersey Shore during the mid-’60s. Robertson’s connection with The Band was rooted in those earlier days, including memorable performances at the former Tony Marts in Somers Point.
The E Street Band’s performance in Chicago echoed the familiar tunes that have resonated with audiences across their international tour. The theme of the night centered on the concept of mortality and its impact, a theme that originated from the band’s 2020 album, “Letter to You.” This album pays tribute to George Theiss, Springsteen’s former bandmate in The Castiles, who passed away in 2018. Springsteen’s powerful reflection on being the last surviving member of The Castiles has become a poignant interlude in the tour shows, touching hearts and emphasizing the passage of time.
The Chicago show was nothing short of spectacular, with Springsteen and the band delivering over three hours of exhilarating music. Fans marveled at Springsteen’s enduring talent, with one fan expressing amazement at how Bruce Springsteen, at the age of 73, continues to captivate audiences with his remarkable prowess.
As the E Street Band prepares for the second night at Wrigley Field, fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming shows, including dates in Philadelphia’s Citizens Bank Ballpark and the grand finale at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.
This remarkable tour, which began in Tampa, Florida on February 1, has traversed the globe, garnering immense enthusiasm from fans. As the North American leg resumes following a successful European run, the impact of Springsteen and the E Street Band’s music continues to resonate, uniting generations and reminding us of the enduring power of rock and roll.
