Where They’re From: Asbury Park, NJ

Who They Are:  The unofficial poet laureate of the state of New Jersey, Bruce Springsteen’s songs are full of ambitious rock arrangements and richly detailed characters that place you right in their world. He debuted in the east coast scene of the mid-70s, with a strong affinity for Philly venues like The Main Point and Tower Theater, he’s played stadiums the world around, and has had a wildly successful run on Broadway. A champion of the common person and narrator of the human experience, Springsteen’s songs reflect struggle and hope with equal resonance.

Years Active: 1973-present

Essential Albums: Born To Run (1975), The River (1980), Nebraska (1982), The Rising (2002)