Time magazine called him “the best Rock and Roll singer of his era.” Born on this day in Freehold, New Jersey, Bruce Springsteen (1949-) is the poet of America, a songwriter of struggles and redemption.

His anthems of hope and dreams continue to define generations. A self-described “lifetime musician,” Springsteen believes that songs are bridges to truth. His compassionate vision give us hope.

"People deserve better," he said. "They deserve truth. They deserve honesty. The best music is essentially there to provide you something to face the world with."

From the raw power of Born to Run to the haunting solitude of Nebraska, Springsteen infuses every lyric with sincerity and a sense of shared struggle. “You’ve got to feel a deep commonality,” he said, and in doing so, gives voice to those who are not heard. His writing is revelation. His marathon performances celebrate life. His music connects heart to heart with those who listen.

He once explained that the best songs are built from good bones, crafted with integrity and the desire to connect.

"And stay hard, stay hungry, and stay alive," he wrote about brotherhood.

That’s the magic of Springsteen. He reminds us that there’s something sacred in singing what’s real. We feel it. And the proof, after all, is in his music.