An Open Letter from Steven Van Zandt to Bruce Springsteen Fans and the Entire E Street Band Community…

I’m writing this letter with a deep sense of gratitude, love, and reflection. As many of you know, the connection we’ve shared over the years – through the music, the concerts, and the deep bond we’ve built as a community – means the world to me. And while it’s always hard to put such immense feelings into words, I feel compelled to share my thoughts as I process some personal and professional changes.

 

First and foremost, I want to address the E Street Band and all of you who have supported Bruce Springsteen, the band, and the music we’ve created together. For me, it’s been more than just playing in a rock band – it’s been a lifelong journey of family, brotherhood, and music that speaks to the soul of everyone who’s ever come to a show or cranked up one of our records.

 

We’ve seen a lot of things together over the decades, haven’t we? From the early days in Asbury Park, to world tours and stadiums that felt like home, to the moments of quiet reflection and the energy that we’ve all shared as fans and musicians. We’ve gone through every emotion, every high, and every low – always with a sense of unity and purpose that can only come from a shared love for what we do.

 

But like anything in life, sometimes circumstances shift, and we have to make difficult decisions. Some of you may know that due to personal reasons, I’ve made the decision to take a step back from touring with the E Street Band. I want to assure you that this isn’t an easy choice, and it’s certainly not a reflection of anything other than a need to re-align my priorities and take some time for reflection and rejuvenation. As many of you know, life has its seasons, and right now, it’s simply time for me to embrace the next chapter.

 

This isn’t goodbye, not by any means. While I won’t be joining the band on the upcoming tour, my heart and spirit will be right there with all of you. The E Street Band, Bruce, and all of you – the fans – will always be family to me. I have the deepest respect for Bruce and the incredible musicianship that the E Street Band continues to bring to the stage. It’s a beautiful thing to watch, and I will continue to be your biggest fan, cheering you on every step of the way.

 

I also want to take a moment to talk about something that I hold dear – the community we’ve built over the years. The E Street Band fanbase is unlike any other. It’s a family that stretches across generations, across the globe. We’ve bonded over shared experiences, whether it’s a tearful moment during “The River” or the joy of dancing through an arena during “Born to Run.” These songs have soundtracked some of the most pivotal moments of our lives, and in a way, they’ve made us who we are.

 

So, to all of you who have shown up to support us, who have worn the T-shirts, who have stood in the rain for hours just to get a glimpse of the magic that happens between us on stage – I want you to know that I appreciate you more than words can express. You are the heart and soul of what we do. Without you, there would be no E Street Band, no Bruce Springsteen. You have always been the driving force behind our energy, our passion, and our love for the music.

 

I also want to acknowledge my bandmates. Bruce, I can’t even begin to explain what it’s meant to me to share the stage with you for all these years. You’ve been my brother, my mentor, my friend. Your artistry and vision have shaped my life in ways I can’t fully express. And to the rest of the E Street Band – there’s no group of musicians I’d rather be on the road with. We’ve shared more than just a career; we’ve shared our hearts, our lives, and our memories. You are all the finest musicians and people I know, and I’m proud to have been part of this family.

 

In closing, while I may not be there in person for the next tour, know that I’m with you in spirit. This isn’t the end of our journey together – it’s simply a new chapter. The music, the legacy, and the love we share will continue to live on, in each of us, and in every note we play.

 

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your unwavering support and love. I’ll see you down the road – just a little further on.