Bruce Springsteen commenced his quartet of Irish shows with a performance for an estimated 40,000 audience members at Belfast’s Boucher Playing Fields on Thursday. The seasoned musician presented a show that our critic rated five stars.
Numerous adoring fans turned up to watch the 74-year-old rock sensation as he took the stage in Belfast for the first time in over a decade. Let’s dive into what some of the ardent enthusiasts had to say.
Bruce Springsteen’s inaugural Irish concert of 2024: Springsteen launches in Belfast with ‘No Surrender’ before setting the stage for a remarkably memorable set
Images captured: Bruce Springsteen in Belfast
‘Somewhat off-key’
‘I regret to be the one who points this out, but a number of the tunes seemed significantly off-key, and, in my opinion, the ensemble wasn’t comprehensive enough to camouflage the shortcomings. The indifference of many was noticeable, but, considering the tickets were valued over £100, I felt slightly disappointed.’ – Gareth Anderson
‘Vitality and sorrow’
‘Bruce’s amazing comeback to Belfast was remarkable, with the translucent summer weather recalling his previous appearance in 2013. The performance was an interplay of fervour and sadness, which was warmly welcomed and reciprocated by the spectators through joyous applause and harmonious echoes.’ – Michael Wilson, from Belfast
‘He literally gripped the audience’
‘Bruce Springsteen’s performance on Boucher Road was undeniably striking. The moment he graced the stage, the captivated crowd was completely at his mercy, thanks to his exceptional talent. The synchronous harmonies of the E Street Band were simply awe-inspiring – undoubtedly remarkable artists. The joy of witnessing Nils performing his dance routine as he tested his new hips was incomparable. Listening and jiving to the resonating sounds orchestrated by Max was indeed a privilege. I am eagerly looking forward to Croke Park’ – Anne O’Hea, from Armagh
‘I am still really excited’
‘It’s the day after the grand night and I’m at George Best airport waiting to head home following the memorable performance by The Boss last evening. I was among the fortunate ones who wore the purple wristband (arrived early) and managed to secure a spot in The Pit for the first time. I feel incredibly lucky and still beaming from the phenomenal concert experience. Bruce Springsteen has always been my favourite and if I had my way, I would follow him around the globe. Who cares if I’m 66? He makes me feel youthful and spirited!’ – Rachel Clarke, from Cornwall
‘Bruce absolutely adores it’
“Why does he continue touring? It appears he genuinely enjoys it,” remarks Bart Wijn. Springsteen’s itinerary reveals a scheduled performance in UPMC Nowlan Park, Kilkenny, on the 12th of May. He then proceeds to Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork on the 16th before concluding the tour flamboyantly at Croke Park, Dublin, on the 19th.