Bruce Springsteen Shares Rousing Cover Of ‘Don’t Play That Song’
The song is one of 15 soul and R&B covers featured on The Boss’ upcoming ‘Only The Strong Survive’ LP.
By Scott Bernstein Oct 28, 2022 • 7:21 am PDT
Bruce Springsteen unveiled his take on “Don’t Play That Song” today. The Boss’ rendition of a cut recorded by Ben E. King and Aretha Franklin appears on his forthcoming covers collection, Only The Strong Survive.
Only The Strong Survive, Springsteen’s 21st studio album, is set for release via Columbia Records on November 11. The legendary musician selected 15 classic soul and R&B songs to record for the LP. Bruce previously previewed the set by sharing his covers of Frank Wilson’s “Do I Love You (Indeed I Do)” and The Commodores' “Nightshift.”
Produced by Ron Aniello, Only The Strong Survive was recorded at Springsteen’s Thrill Hill Recording facility in New Jersey. Sam Moore contributed guest vocals to a few tracks while the entire LP features full string arrangements by Rob Mathes and backing vocals courtesy of Soozie Tyrell, Lisa Lowell, Michelle Moore, Curtis King Jr., Dennis Collins and Fonzi Thornton. The E Street Horns also added to the album.
“Don’t Play That Song” was co-written by Ahmet Ertegun and Betty Nelson. Ben E. King released the first version of the tune as the title track of his 1962 album. His version peaked at number 2 on the U.S. R&B singles chat. Aretha Franklin put her own spin on “Don’t Play That Song” for a take recorded with the Dixie Flyers for her 1970 LP Spirit In The Dark.
Springsteen was backed by a full band in the Thom Zimny-directed video for “Don’t Play That Song.” Check out the visual below:
The Boss makes his Howard Stern Show debut this Monday, October 31. Stern returns to the studio for the first time since the pandemic began to broadcast his SiriusXM program on Monday. Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band launch an extensive world tour in February. Buy Bruce Springsteen tickets via Ticketmaster.com. View a full list of dates here:
Loading tour dates
