Singer/songwriter Vivienne Patricia Scialfa (1953–) was born in Long Branch, New Jersey. Her father owned a television store. With a B.A. in music from NYU, she once described her craft as “a lifeline, a sanctuary.”

“I think you're lucky when you have something that you love to do,” she said. “It’s the only thing I knew how to do… my survival kit, my music.”

Scialfa (pronounced SKAL-fuh) joined her first band at 14. She sang backup for Southside Johnny and the Rolling Stones before joining Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band in 1985. She married Springsteen in 1991, and together they raised three children.

“When you’re married to someone famous,” she told Rolling Stone, “people know you, but they’re not really seeing you.”

But Patti Scialfa is unmistakably herself. A talented writer and guitarist, she crafts her songs in quiet early mornings. Her voice—high, honeyed, and strong—is often compared to Ronnie Spector. On stage, she stands beside Springsteen not in shadow, but in light.

Today, she continues to write and sing through her cancer journey. Her strength, creativity, and authenticity shine brighter than ever.

Sometimes the right kiss is a song. Sometimes it’s survival itself.