DANCING IN THE DARK 
Album version
I get up in the evening and I ain't got nothing to say
I come home in the morning, I go to bed feeling the same way
I ain't nothing but tired, man I'm just tired and bored with myself
Hey there baby, I could use just a little help
You can't start a fire, you can't start a fire without a spark
This gun's for hire even if we're just dancing in the dark
Message just keep getting clearer, radio's on and I'm moving 'round my place
I check my look in the mirror, I wanna change my clothes, my hair, my face
Man, I ain't getting nowhere, I'm just living in a dump like this
There's something happening somewhere, baby I just know that there is
You can't start a fire, you can't start a fire without a spark
This gun's for hire even if we're just dancing in the dark
You sit around getting older, there's a joke here somewhere and it's on me
I'll shake this world off my shoulders, come on baby this laugh's on me
Stay on the streets of this town and they'll be carving you up alright
They say you gotta stay hungry, hey baby, I'm just about starving tonight
I'm dying for some action, I'm sick of sitting 'round here trying to write this book
I need a love reaction, come on now baby gimme just one look
You can't start a fire sitting 'round crying over a broken heart
This gun's for hire even if we're just dancing in the dark
You can't start a fire worrying about your little world falling apart
This gun's for hire even if we're just dancing in the dark
Even if we're just dancing in the dark
Even if we're just dancing in the dark
Even if we're just dancing in the dark
Hey baby!
PAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Info
DANCING IN THE DARK is a song written by Bruce Springsteen and released on his 1984 album Born In The U.S.A.. The above lyrics are for Bruce Springsteen's album version of DANCING IN THE DARK as released in 1984.
The album version of DANCING IN THE DARK was included on the Greatest Hits (1995 edition) compilation album, The Essential Bruce Springsteen (both 2003 and 2015 editions) compilation album, the Greatest Hits (2009 editions) compilation album, and the Collection: 1973-2012 compilation album, the Japanese Singles Collection -Greatest Hits- compilation album, the Best Of Bruce Springsteen compilation album.
Writing and Recording
DANCING IN THE DARK was likely written sometime around January 1984 after Springsteen's manager, Jon Landau, asked the exhausted Springsteen that the album needed a single. He didn't take it well and said "Look, I've written seventy songs; you want another one, you write it." By this time Bruce had written and recorded almost 90 songs, including the ones on the Nebraska album; around 80 songs when the Nebraska material is not included. Despite his frustration, Springsteen sat on the bed in his New York City hotel room and wrote the song in a single night. The song sums up his state of mind, his isolation, and frustrations of trying to write a hit-single that would catapult him to world fame.
The album version of DANCING IN THE DARK was recorded on February 14, 1984 at the Hit Factory in New York City. Five other takes of the song were also recorded on that day.
Born In The U.S.A.
Born In The U.S.A. is Bruce Springsteen's seventh studio album. It was released on 04 Jun 1984 on Columbia Records. It was recorded between January 1982 and February 1984 at The Hit Factory and The Power Station in New York City, NY.
Bruce Springsteen -- Born In The U.S.A.
The album features 12 tracks and clocks at 46:57. It is produced by produced by Jon Landau, Chuck Plotkin, Bruce Springsteen, and Steven Van Zandt.
Music Video
SECTION NOT YET COMPLETED
The music video for DANCING IN THE DARK was included on the Video Anthology / 1978-88 home video and the Japanese Singles Collection -Greatest Hits- compilation album. It was posted on Bruce Springsteen's VEVO YouTube channel in October 2009.
Single Release
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Bruce Springsteen -- "Dancing In The Dark / My Hometown"
7" single - CBS (7012843) - Costa Rica, 1984
Sunburst labels version, comes in a CBS company sleeve.
A1-
DANCING IN THE DARK
B1-
MY HOMETOWN
Bruce Springsteen -- "Dancing In The Dark / My Hometown"
7" single - CBS (7012843) - Costa Rica, 1984
Pink labels version, comes in a CBS company sleeve.
A1-
DANCING IN THE DARK
B1-
MY HOMETOWN
Bruce Springsteen -- Dancing In The Dark
7" single - Sony Music (A 4436) - Germany, 2024
Germany-only promotional single given away exclusively with the May 2023 issue of the German edition of
Rolling Stone magazine.
A1-
DANCING IN THE DARK
B1-
PINK CADILLAC
Bruce Springsteen -- Dancing In The Dark
7" single - CBS / Sony (07SP 810) - Japan, 1984
Comes with a picture insert. Promotional copies are identical to the commercial ones with the exception of "NOT FOR SALE / SAMPLE" (in Japanese) imprint above the catalogue number on the labels.
A1-
DANCING IN THE DARK
B1-
PINK CADILLAC
Video Anthology Home Video
Video Anthology / 1978-88 is a collection of 18 Bruce Springsteen music videos and concert performances, released on VHS on 31 Jan 1989. The home video was also released on LaserDisc.
Bruce Springsteen -- Video Anthology / 1978-88 (USA VHS cover art)
Bruce Springsteen -- Video Anthology / 1978-88 (USA LaserDisc cover art)
Bruce Springsteen -- Video Anthology / 1978-88 (Japan LaserDisc cover art)
- ROSALITA (COME OUT TONIGHT) [Live 08 Jul 1978 version] — originally released in 1978, directed by Arnold Levine
- THE RIVER [Live 21 Sep 1979 version] — originally released in 1980, directed by Danny Goldberg, Julian Schlossberg, Anthony Potenza
- THUNDER ROAD [Mix of live 21 Sep 1979 version and live 22 Sep 1979 version] — originally released in 1980, directed by Danny Goldberg, Julian Schlossberg, Anthony Potenza
- ATLANTIC CITY — originally released in 1982, directed by Arnold Levine
- DANCING IN THE DARK — originally released in 1984, directed by Brian De Palma
- BORN IN THE U.S.A. — originally released in 1984, directed by John Sayles
- I'M ON FIRE — originally released in 1985, directed by John Sayles
- GLORY DAYS — originally released in 1985, directed by John Sayles
- MY HOMETOWN [Live 30 Sep 1985 version] — originally released in 1985, directed by Arthur Rosato
- WAR [Live 30 Sep 1985 version] — originally released in 1986, directed by Arthur Rosato
- FIRE [Live 13 Oct 1986 version] — originally released in 1986
- BORN TO RUN [Live 19 Aug 1985 version] — originally released in 1987, directed by Arthur Rosato
- BRILLIANT DISGUISE — originally released in 1987, directed by Meiert Avis
- TUNNEL OF LOVE — originally released in 1987, directed by Meiert Avis
- ONE STEP UP — originally released in 1988, directed by Meiert Avis
- TOUGHER THAN THE REST [Live 27 Apr 1988 version] — originally released in1988, directed by Meiert Avis
- SPARE PARTS [Live 10 Jul 1988 version] — originally released in 1988, directed by Carol Dodds
- BORN TO RUN [Live 27 Apr 1988 version] — originally released in 1988, directed by Meiert Avis
Sonny reissued the video on DVD on 16 Jan 2001. Titled The Complete Video Anthology / 1978-2000, the new expanded release added a second disc with 15 additional music video, concert performances, and television appearances.
Bruce Springsteen -- The Complete Video Anthology / 1978-2000 (DVD cover art)
Disc 1:
- ROSALITA (COME OUT TONIGHT) [Live 08 Jul 1978 version] — originally released in 1978, directed by Arnold Levine
- THE RIVER [Live 21 Sep 1979 version] — originally released in 1980, directed by Danny Goldberg, Julian Schlossberg, Anthony Potenza
- THUNDER ROAD [Mix of live 21 Sep 1979 version and live 22 Sep 1979 version] — originally released in 1980, directed by Danny Goldberg, Julian Schlossberg, Anthony Potenza
- ATLANTIC CITY — originally released in 1982, directed by Arnold Levine
- DANCING IN THE DARK — originally released in 1984, directed by Brian De Palma
- BORN IN THE U.S.A. — originally released in 1984, directed by John Sayles
- I'M ON FIRE — originally released in 1985, directed by John Sayles
- GLORY DAYS — originally released in 1985, directed by John Sayles
- MY HOMETOWN [Live 30 Sep 1985 version] — originally released in 1985, directed by Arthur Rosato
- WAR [Live 30 Sep 1985 version] — originally released in 1986, directed by Arthur Rosato
- FIRE [Live 13 Oct 1986 version] — originally released in 1986
- BORN TO RUN [Live 19 Aug 1985 version] — originally released in 1987, directed by Arthur Rosato
- BRILLIANT DISGUISE — originally released in 1987, directed by Meiert Avis
- TUNNEL OF LOVE — originally released in 1987, directed by Meiert Avis
- ONE STEP UP — originally released in 1988, directed by Meiert Avis
- TOUGHER THAN THE REST [Live 27 Apr 1988 version] — originally released in1988, directed by Meiert Avis
- SPARE PARTS [Live 10 Jul 1988 version] — originally released in 1988, directed by Carol Dodds
- BORN TO RUN [Live 27 Apr 1988 version] — originally released in 1988, directed by Meiert Avis
Disc 2:
- HUMAN TOUCH — originally released in 1992, directed by Meiert Avis
- BETTER DAYS — originally released in 1992, directed by Meiert Avis
- 57 CHANNELS (AND NOTHIN' ON) — originally released in 1992, directed by Adam Bernstein
- LEAP OF FAITH [Live 06 Aug 1992 version] — originally released in 1992, directed by Meiert Avis
- STREETS OF PHILADELPHIA — originally released in 1993, directed by Jonathan Demme and Ted Demme
- MURDER INCORPORATED — originally released in 1995, directed by Jonathan Demme
- SECRET GARDEN — originally released in 1995, directed by Peter Care
- HUNGRY HEART [Live 09 Jul 1995 version] — originally released in 1995, directed by Rudi Dolezal and Hannes Rossacher
- DEAD MAN WALKIN' — originally released in 1196, directed by Tim Robbins
- THE GHOST OF TOM JOAD — originally released in 1996, directed by Arnold Levine
- THE GHOST OF TOM JOAD [Live 27 Nov 1995 version] — from The Tonight Show With Jay Leno
- HIGHWAY PATROLMAN — previously unreleased, directed by Sean Penn
- IF I SHOULD FALL BEHIND [25 Sep 1999 sound-check version] — previously unreleased, directed by Jonathan Demme
- BORN IN THE U.S.A. [Live 20 Nov 1998 version] — from The Charlie Rose Show
- LIFT ME UP — audio only, plays over end credits
- SECRET GARDEN [with Strings] — previously unreleased, directed by Peter Care
Greatest Hits 1995 Edition
Greatest Hits (1995 edition) is a collection of some of Bruce Springsteen's hit singles and popular album tracks through the years, in addition to four previously unreleased songs, three of which were recorded with the E Street Band in 1995 — Springsteen's first release with his backing band since the late eighties. Some of the songs on Greatest Hits are shorter versions of the original album releases.
In 1994, Bruce Springsteen recorded an album with members of the 1992-1993 touring band. His manager Jon Landau wasn't a fan of the project and recommended shelving it and focusing more on a "career overview". This lead to the Greatest Hits sessions with the E Street Band in 1995. Springsteen called the band in early January to record some new songs for the album and they assembled for the recording sessions on 09 Jan 1995 at The Hit Factory in New York City, NY. The sessions, which lasted about ten days, were the band's first studio reunion in 11 years (since the Born In The U.S.A. sessions) and their first ever with Nils Lofgren.
Bruce Springsteen -- Greatest Hits
Greatest Hits was released on 27 Feb 1995 on Columbia Records. It was commercially successful, debuting at #1 on the U.S. Billboard 200 where it stayed on the chart for 32 weeks. It also peaked at #1 in Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and many European countries. By 2008 the album had sold more than four million copies in the United States.
In 2013, Sony Music reissued the album in Venezuela as part of its Star Collection series, which was made exclusively for the Venezuelan market via Sony Music Venezuela in 2013. The album is titled after the series and features totally different artwork. Just like on Greatest Hits, the songs are shorter versions of the original album releases.
Bruce Springsteen -- Star Collection
CD - Sony Music (001) - Venezuela, 2013
The Essential Bruce Springsteen
The Essential Bruce Springsteen is a compilation album released as part of Sony BMG'S (previously Sony Music Entertainment) series of "Essential" sets. According to Springsteen's liner notes comments, the collection was intended as an introduction to his music for new fans who attended shows on The Rising Tour.
The collection is fundamentally a 2-disc set (clocking at 153:37) compiling songs from all of Springsteen's studio albums to date plus his Live In New York City release. A 3-disc limited edition (clocking at 201:04) was also released. It includes a bonus third disc comprising of a selection of rarities and previously unreleased recordings.
The Essential Bruce Springsteen was released on 11 Nov 2003 on Columbia Records. It debuted and peaked at #14 on the U.S. Billboard 200 album chart where it spent 13 weeks. It also reached #28 on the UK Albums Chart. The album was awarded certified gold and platinum records by the RIAA on 16 Dec 2003.
Bruce Springsteen -- The Essential Bruce Springsteen (2003 edition)
The Essential Bruce Springsteen was reissued on 16 Oct 2015, this time as a 2-disc set (clocking at 156:25) with an updated track list, compiling songs from all of Springsteen's studio albums to date plus his Greatest Hits (1995 edition) collection. This 2015 reissue features remastered tracks not found in that form on other Springsteen releases.
Bruce Springsteen -- The Essential Bruce Springsteen (2015 edition)
Greatest Hits 2009 Edition
Greatest Hits (2009 edition) is a compilation album released by Columbia Records on 13 Jan 2009 in the United State where it was sold exclusively through Wal-Mart retailers. The album was also released (but non-exclusively) in Canada. Unlike the 1995 Greatest Hits release and The Essential Bruce Springsteen in 2003, this compilation was billed to "Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band" instead of just "Bruce Springsteen". The album contains 12 previously released studio tracks and clocks at 53:08.
Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band -- Greatest Hits (2009 USA edition)
On 01 Jun 2009, Columbia Records released a European edition of the compilation album with an alternative track listing to promote Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band's European leg of the Working On A Dream Tour. The European edition was also released in Israel and Mexico, and in Australia in August 2009. The album comes in a standard jewel case, but a limited digipack edition was also released in Europe. Greatest Hits (2009 European edition) contains 16 previously released studio tracks and 2 live bonus tracks taken from the Live/1975-85 box set. It clocks at 79:03.
Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band -- Greatest Hits (2009 Europe edition)
The album charted in several countries, but only made it to # 1 in Sweden. In general, the album did much better in Europe than in North America.
Collection: 1973-2012
Collection: 1973-2012 is a Bruce Springsteen compilation album released on Columbia Records in 2013. It was released on 08 Mar 2013 in Australia and 15 Apr 2013 in Europe. The compilation was not released commercially in the United States. Instead, a promotional version was given out exclusively to $1,500 ticket holders at the "MusiCares Person Of The Year" tribute event held in Los Angeles, CA, on 08 Feb 2013. The event honoured Springsteen for both his artistic achievements and philanthropic efforts. The compilation consists of 18 previously released studio tracks.
Bruce Springsteen -- Collection: 1973-2012
Japanese Singles Collection -Greatest Hits-
Japanese Singles Collection -Greatest Hits- is a Bruce Springsteen compilation album released by Sony Music Japan in 2023. The compilation, which was exclusively released in Japan, consists of previously released 35 audio tracks and 62 video tracks. The collection is part of a 26-title reissue campaign to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Bruce Springsteen's debut album. The series, issued in three waves (25 Oct 2023, 22 Nov 2023, and 20 Dec 2023), includes 25 albums originally released between 1973 and 2014 plus a new compilation album that includes all of Springsteen's singles released in Japan from 1975 to 1999. All audio CD's were manufactured using Sony Japan's Blu-spec CD2 format.
Bruce Springsteen -- Japanese Singles Collection -Greatest Hits-
Best Of Bruce Springsteen
Best Of Bruce Springsteen is a compilation album released on Columbia Records on 19 Apr 2024. The album is collection of original songs spanning Springsteen's entire career, from 1973 to 2020. The release was officially announced on 01 Mar 2024.
Two variants of the album were released: the 18-track physical releases and an expanded 31-track download-only version. The physical releases include a single-disc CD and as a two-disc LP set. Four editions of the vinyl release were issued: a regular edition on black vinyl, an Atlantic Blue vinyl exclusive to Europe, a Highway Yellow vinyl exclusive to independent retailers, and a Jersey Devil Red vinyl exclusive to Amazon Music.
Bruce Springsteen -- Best Of Bruce Springsteen
Other Official Releases
SECTION NOT YET COMPLETED
Bruce Springsteen -- The Future Of Rock'n'Roll / 70's To 80's
2xCD - CBS/Sony (XADP 90009~10) - Japan, 1988
Japan-only promotional 2-CD set sampler compiling 28 tracks from Bruce Springsteen's first nine albums plus two 1988 live B-sides.
Bruce Springsteen -- Bruce Springsteen Sampler
CD - Columbia (CDNK 677) - Canada, 1992
Canada-only promotional CD sampler compiling 10 tracks from Springsteen's albums up to 1987, plus the 1988 acoustic live version of BORN TO RUN. Comes in a plain white die-cut cardboard sleeve.
Bruce Springsteen -- Tougher Than The Rest
CD - Columbia (XPCD 192) - UK, 1992
UK-only promotional CD sampler issued in limited quantities to tie in with the 1992 Wembley shows and contains 16 tracks from Springsteen's albums up to 1992.
Bruce Springsteen -- Tougher Than The Rest
CD - Columbia (BOSS1) - Sweden, 1992
Sweden-only promotional CD sampler used for both radio promotion and as a VIP giveaway item at the opening shows of Springsteen's 1992 tour in Stockholm. It contains 14 tracks from the first nine albums only. Two different pressings exist: the first comes in a standard jewel case with title front inlay and back insert (cover art on the left), and the second comes in a plain slimline case with no inlays.
Bruce Springsteen -- Bruce Springsteen
CD - Sony (XDDP 93084) - Japan, 1992
Japan-only promotional CD sampler compiling 16 tracks from Springsteen's studio albums up to 1992.
Bruce Springsteen -- Bruce Springsteen (1984 - 1993)
CD-R - Sony (no catalog number) - Japan, 2005
Japan-only promotional "Digest" CD-R advance sampler tying in with the release of the second batch of the Japanese 2005 "mini-LP"-style Springsteen CD album reissues. This disc comes in a plain slimline jewel case with no artwork.
Bruce Springsteen -- The Albums Collection Vol. 1, 1973-1984 - Radio Sampler
CD-R - Columbia / Legacy (no catalog number) - USA, 2014
US-only promotional CD-R radio sampler tying with the release of Springsteen's box set of his first seven albums in remastered form.
The album version of DANCING IN THE DARK also appears on some various artists albums.
Various artists -- Billboard Dünya Listeleri
LP - Galaxy (LP2011) - Turkey, 1984
Compilation album that includes 10 songs from Billboard's Hot 100 chart of the week of 22 Sep 1984, including
DANCING IN THE DARK (at #54) and
COVER ME (at #11).
Various artists -- Dee Jay Time Surprise
LP - CBS (26812) - Italy, 1985
Includes a 3:15 edited version of the album version of DANCING IN THE DARK.
Various artists -- The 12" Tape Reel 4
MC EP - CBS (40-54881) - UK, 1985
Includes the "Extended Mix" of the album version of DANCING IN THE DARK.
Various artists -- 10 Χρόνια CBS
2xLP - CBS (SAMP 1057) - Greece, 1986
Promotional sampler.
Various artists -- The Remix Tape
CD - Columbia / Sony Music Marketing Especial (721.066/2-476235) - Brazil, unknown release year
Includes the Blaster Mix of DANCING IN THE DARK.
Various artists -- Gold & Platinum - The Ultimate Rock Collection 1964-1995
6xCD - Sony Music Special Products / Time Life Music (A-28396 / R13610) - USA, 1997
Also includes
BORN TO RUN.
Various artists -- Maggie's Plan: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
CD - American Federation Of Musicians Of The United States And Canada / Alternative Distribution Alliance / Milan (M2-36780) - USA, 2016
Various artists -- Blinded By The Light: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
CD - Columbia Records / Legacy Recordings (19075955742) - USA, 2019
2xLP - Columbia Records / Legacy Recordings (19075955751) - USA, 2019
Other versions of DANCING IN THE DARK were also officially released.
The live 05 Aug 1984 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Brendan Byrne Arena, New Jersey 1984 official live download in 2015.
The live 06 Aug 1984 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Brendan Byrne Arena August 6, 1984 official live download in 2020.
The live 20 Aug 1984 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Brendan Byrne Arena, NJ August 20, 1984 official live download in 2015.
The live 27 Sep 1985 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Sept 27, 1985 official live download in 2019.
The live 13 Oct 1986 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Bridge School October 13, 1986 official live download in 2019.
The live 28 Mar 1988 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Joe Louis Arena, Detroit 1988 official live download in 2020.
The live 23 Apr 1988 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the LA Sports Arena, California 1988 official live download in 2015.
The live 28 Apr 1988 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Los Angeles, April 1988 official live download in 2021.
The live 03 Jul 1988 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Stockholm Stadion, Sweden 1988 official live download in 2017.
The live 16 Jun 2003 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Helsinki June 16, 2003 official live download in 2018.
The live 23 Aug 2008 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Scottrade Center, St. Louis, MO 8/23/2008 official live download in 2017.
The live 04 May 2009 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Nassau Coliseum 05.04.09 official live download in 2020.
The live 20 Oct 2009 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Wachovia Spectrum, Philadelphia, PA 10/20/09 official live download in 2017.
The live 07 Nov 2009 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the MSG 11.07.09 official live download in 2020.
The live 08 Nov 2009 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the MSG Nov 08, 2009 official live download in 2018.
The live 22 Nov 2009 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the HSBC Arena, Buffalo, NY 11/22/2009 official live download in 2016.
The live 28 Jul 2012 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Gothenburg July 28, 2012 official live download in 2020.
The live 31 Jul 2012 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Olympiastadion, Helsinki July 31, 2012 official live download in 2017.
The live 22 Sep 2012 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on East Rutherford, NJ 09.22.12 official live download in 2019.
The live 12 Nov 2012 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the St. Paul, MN Nov 12, 2012 official live download in 2020.
The live 11 Jul 2013 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Ippodromo Delle Capannelle, Rome 2013 official live download in 2015.
The live 24 Jul 2013 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Leeds July 24, 2013 official live download in 2018.
Live History: on-tour
SECTION NOT YET COMPLETED
In preparation for Springsteen On Broadway, DANCING IN THE DARK was performed during all of the tour's three known private rehearsal shows that took place in September 2017 in West Long Branch, NJ, and New York City, NY, and during both of the tour's known private rehearsal shows that took place in June 2021 in New York City, NY.
DANCING IN THE DARK was performed 268 times during Springsteen On Broadway (268 dates, October 2017 to December 2018 and June to September 2021). On this tour, the song was played solo on acoustic guitar. The live July 2018 version of DANCING IN THE DARK was released on the Springsteen On Broadway album in 2018.
Live History: off-tour
SECTION NOT YET COMPLETED
DANCING IN THE DARK was performed off-tour on 11 Nov 2014 at National Mall in Washington, DC, during The Concert For Valor. The song was performed in a solo acoustic arrangement. See the live 11 Nov 2014 version for more details.
DANCING IN THE DARK was performed off-tour on 05 May 2019 at Raleigh Studios in Los Angeles, CA, during a special event marking the opening of Netflix's third annual FYSEE experience. The song was played solo on acoustic guitar.
Bruce Springsteen has been performing on almost all the annual Stand Up for Heroes benefits since 2007. DANCING IN THE DARK was performed during the seventh (2013), eighth (2014), ninth (2015), tenth (2016), twelfth (2018), thirteenth (2019), fifteenth (2021), sixteenth (2022), and seventeenth (2023) annual benefits. The song was played solo acoustic.
Appearance in Movies
SECTION NOT YET COMPLETED
Maggie's Plan
It was used in the 2015 film Maggie's Plan, directed by Rebecca Miller and starring Greta Gerwig and Ethan Hawke. The song was also included in the film's soundtrack album.
Blinded By The Light
It was used in the 2019 film
Blinded By The Light, directed by Gurinder Chadha and starring Viveik Kalra. The song was also included in the film's soundtrack album.
See
I'LL STAND BY YOU (the "
Blinded By The Light" section) for more details.
Covers
SECTION NOT YET COMPLETED
At least 70 artists have recorded and released Bruce Springsteen's DANCING IN THE DARK.
The All Stars -- The Bruce Springsteen Mix
12" single - Rams Horn (RHR 3450) - Holland, 1985
The A-side is THE BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN MIX, a medley clocking at 8:23 and consisting of I'M ON FIRE, DANCING IN THE DARK, GLORY DAYS, THE RIVER, BORN TO RUN, HUNGRY HEART, BLINDED BY THE LIGHT, and BORN IN THE U.S.A. The single was also issued in Holland on 7" vinyl containing a shorter "single version" of the medley that clocks at 3:56. The single was also issued on 12" vinyl in Germany, Greece (different artwork), Brazil (additionally includes the single version on the B-side), and Mexico. The single was reissued in 2009 as a download-only digital album (consisting of 8 separate tracks) titled "A Tribute To Bruce Springsteen: Hits Of The 80's Megamix", credited to "Top 40 Cover Band", and featuring a different artwork.
The Shadows -- Moonlight Shadows
LP - Polydor (PROLP 8) - UK, 1986
The Songrise Orchestra -- The Music Of Bruce Springsteen - 17 Instrumental Hits
CD - Hits 'N' Hits (3831CD) - UK, 1995
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album. It was reissued in 2011 by the Pyramid Music label as a download-only digital album titled Greatest Hits From The Superstars - Born In The USA credited to Gary Tesca Orchestra. It was again reissued in 2014 by the Bringins Music label as a download-only digital album titled Memories Are Made Of These - The Best Of Bruce Springsteen credited to Twilight Orchestra.
Richard De Groot -- Man At The Top: Medley Of Springsteen Songs
CD EP - Roulette Records (RR001) - Holland, 1997
This EP contains a cover of MAN AT THE TOP plus two versions (electric and acoustic) of a medley consisting of 8 Springsteen covers: BECAUSE THE NIGHT, BORN IN THE U.S.A., BORN TO RUN, DANCING IN THE DARK, FIRE, FOR YOU, MAN AT THE TOP, and THUNDER ROAD. Also included is a CD-ROM track containing interactive material.
Session musicians featuring David West -- Pickin' On Springsteen - A Tribute
CD - CMH (CD-8510) - USA, 1999
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album. It was reissued in 2007 under the title "Bluegrass Interpretations Of Bruce Springsteen", under the same label and with catalog number CD 5227.
American Boys -- Bruce Springsteen - Coverversion
CD - Azzurra (TBP 1113) - Italy, 2000
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album. It was reissued in 2003 under the title Bruce Springsteen: The Best - Cover 100%, with catalog number TBP 1152 and with a different artwork.
Richard Coleman -- I Can't Believe It's Not... Bruce Springsteen
CD - Pegasus (ICBINCD 047) - Germany, 2001
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Studio 99 -- Born In The USA: Springsteen - A Tribute
CD - Going For A Song (GFS402) - UK, 2001
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Nick White -- The Music Of Bruce Springsteen
CD - Millennium Gold (MG2110) - Holland, 2002
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Route 66 -- Born In The USA
CD - Time Music (TMI029) - Europe, 2002
Includes two Bruce Springsteen covers: BORN IN THE U.S.A. and DANCING IN THE DARK.
Session musicians -- Super Instrumental
CD - O6epir-XXI / Vikkon (no catalog number) - Ukraine, 2003
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Various artists -- A Tribute To Bruce Springsteen
CD - Big Eye (BIG 4268-2) - USA, 2003
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album. DANCING IN THE DARK is performed by Shane Torrel.
New Jersey All Stars -- A Tribute To Bruce Springsteen
CD - Cedar (1402) - Europe, 2004
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Bosstime -- 12 Tracks Live
CD - no label (no catalog number) - Germany, 2005
This is a live Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Saffer -- Worksheet 05/06
CD EP - unknown label (unknown catalog number) - Germany, 2005
4-track EP, includes two Bruce Springsteen covers: DANCING IN THE DARK and THE PROMISE.
Matt Tyler -- Brilliant Disguise
CD-R - Dannyboy Records (DBM003) - UK, 2006
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Paul Baribeau & Ginger Alford -- Darkness On The Edge Of Your Town Tour
CD-R - no label (no catalog number) - USA, 2006
CD-R - no label (no catalog number) - USA, 2009
This is a live Bruce Springsteen tribute album. CD-R copies were sold on tour and online. The 2006 issue contains 10 tracks and the 2009 reissue includes 5 additional tracks. DANCING IN THE DARK can only be found on the 2009 reissue.
Studio Group -- A Tribute To Bruce Springsteen Vol 1
Digital album - Charly Records (no catalog number) - unknown country, 2006
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
The Voices On Tour -- The Music Of Bruce Springsteen
CD - Promo Sound (PS 1723 CD) - Germany, 2006
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Luca Hawk -- Bruce Springsteen Tribute: Acoustic Solo Project
CD EP - no label (no catalog number) - Italy, 2007
This is a promotional Bruce Springsteen tribute EP.
The Blankket -- Be Your Own Boss
MiniCD EP - Blocks Recording Club (040) - Canada, 2007
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute EP.
The Boss Chill -- The Boss Chill
CD - Vale Music (unknown catalog number) - Spain, 2008
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Lullaby Players -- Sleepytime Tunes: Bruce Springsteen Lullaby Tribute
CD - Copycats Entertainment (CCE 9048) - USA, 2009
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
The Pop Royals -- Sing The Hits Of Bruce Springsteen
Digital album - Marathon Media (unknown catalog number) - unknown country, 2009
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Various artists -- Play Some Pool, Skip Some School, Act Real Cool: A Global Pop Tribute To Bruce Springsteen
2xCD - Where It's At Is Where You Are (WIACD20) - UK, 2009
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album. DANCING IN THE DARK is performed by Thewintersleep.
Mount Pleasant -- Born To Run
Digital album - no label (no catalog number) - New New Zealand, 2010
This is a free download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Starlite Singers -- Glory Days (In The Style Of Bruce Springsteen)
Digital album - Starlite / Suite 102 (unknown catalog number) - Canada, 2010
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
The Hit Co. -- A Tribute To The Best Of Bruce Springsteen Box Set
Digital album - Planet Music (unknown catalog number) - unknown country, 2010
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album. It was also released the same year as three separate volumes: Long Live The Boss: A Tribute To Bruce Springsteen Vol. 1 1973-1985, Long Live The Boss: A Tribute To Bruce Springsteen Vol. 2 1980-1989, and Long Live The Boss: A Tribute To Bruce Springsteen Vol. 3 1990-2009. A Tribute To The Best Of Bruce Springsteen Box Set however includes two tracks not found on the three separate volumes. In 2012, the same tracks found on A Tribute To The Best Of Bruce Springsteen Box Set were distributed over three download-only digital Bruce Springsteen and John Mellencamp tribute albums: Working Class Heroes: A Tribute to Bruce Springsteen and John Mellencamp, Vol. 1, Working Class Heroes: A Tribute to Bruce Springsteen and John Mellencamp, Vol. 2, and Working Class Heroes: A Tribute to Bruce Springsteen and John Mellencamp, Vol. 3.
Steve Tempo -- A Boy From Nowhere
CD - Soundgenerix (no catalog number) - UK, 2011
The Boss Band -- The Ultimate Tribute To Bruce Springsteen
Digital album - Big Eye Music (unknown catalog number) - USA, 2011
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Various artists -- Dermot O'Leary Presents The Saturday Sessions 2011
2xCD - BBC Radio 2 / Universal Music TV / Rhino / Sony Mu (88697983002) - UK, 2011
This is a live album. DANCING IN THE DARK is performed by Jon Fratelli.
Ameritz Tribute Club -- Working On The Highway - A Tribute To Bruce Springsteen
Digital album - Ameritz Music (unknown catalog number) - UK, 2012
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Catch This Beat -- Tribute To Bruce Springsteen
Digital album - Talking Clive (unknown catalog number) - USA, 2012
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Déjà Vu -- Tribute To Working Class Hero Bruce Springsteen - Vol. 1
Digital album - Zulu (unknown catalog number) - USA, 2012
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Frans Pollux -- Pollux Duit Springsteen
CD - hippoproducties (no catalog number) - Holland, 2012
2xLP - unknown label (unknown catalog number) - Holland, 2022
This is a live Bruce Springsteen tribute album. All songs are in Dutch. The album was reissued on vinyl in 2022, with three additional tracks and completely different artwork. DANCING IN THE DARK is a Dutch version titled "Duuster As Ik Dans".
The Boss Tribute To Springsteen -- Jelling Musikfestival 2012
Digital album - Next2Live (unknown catalog number) - Denmark, 2012
This is a download-only digital live Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Das Traumstern-Orchester -- Spielt Hits Von Bruce Springsteen
CD - Europa Family Music / Sony Music (88765 47379 2) - Germany, 2013
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Judson Mancebo -- Babies Love Bruce Springsteen
CD - Sony Music (88765482692) - Brazil, 2013
CD - DIVUCSA (38-534) - Spain, 2015
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Rock Riff Tones -- We Love (A Tribute To Bruce Springsteen)
Digital album - Devoted Music (unknown catalog number) - unknown country, 2013
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
That Fucking Tank -- A Document Of The Last Set
LP - Gringo Records (WAAT056) - UK, 2013
DANCING IN THE DARK is an instrumental adaptation titled "Bruce Springstonehenge".
Various artists -- I Hear You're From Australia - My Name's Bruce Too
2xCD - Laughing Outlaw (LOR160CD) - Australia, 2013
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album. DANCING IN THE DARK is performed by Hinterlandt.
Andrew Bissel -- Rockabye Baby! Lullaby Renditions Of Bruce Springsteen
CD - Rockabye Baby! (CD 9701) - USA, 2014
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Kathryn Williams -- Monday Morning
CD EP - One Little Indian (1216TP7CDP) - UK, 2014
This is a promo EP. DANCING IN THE DARK is a live version.
Laptop Instrumental -- The Bruce Springsteen Instrumental Collection
Digital album - Loudr (no catalog number) - USA, 2014
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Spirit -- A Tribute To Bruce Springsteen
Digital album - Rapier Music (unknown catalog number) - UK, 2014
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Various artists -- Bruce Springsteen Tribute (Rauch Auf Dem Wasser - Edition)
CD - Coaast TMP (no catalog number) - Germany, 2014
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album. DANCING IN THE DARK is performed by Marion Seibert.
Various artists -- Dead Man's Town: A Tribute To Born In The U.S.A.
LP - Lightning Rod Records (LRR25523) - USA, 2014
CD - Lightning Rod Records (LRR25523) - USA, 2014
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album. DANCING IN THE DARK is performed by Nicole Atkins.
Lispector -- Dancin' In The Nite
CD EP - Ponytail Records (no catalog number) - France, 2015
Lullaby Teddy -- Easy Listening Tribute To Bruce Springsteen
Digital album - Lullaby Teddy (unknown catalog number) - unknown country, 2015
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Moa Holmsten -- Bruised Arms & Broken Rhythm
CD - Fill In The Blank Records (no catalog number) - USA, 2015
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Relaxing Piano Covers -- Tribute To Bruce Springsteen
Digital album - Relaxing Piano Covers (unknown catalog number) - USA, 2015
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
The Cheap Dates -- Loose Springsteen
Digital album - no label (no catalog number) - USA, 2015
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Woman's Hour -- Dancing In The Dark
12" EP - Secretly Canadian / Best Fit Recordings (BESTFIT025) - UK, 2015
This is a Record Store Day exclusive release.
Chris Monzon -- Chris In The U.S.A.
Digital EP - no label (no catalog number) - USA, 2016
This is a free download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute EP.
Greg Von Teig -- The Prisoner Of His Dreams: Greg Von Teig Plays Bruce Springsteen
CD - no label (no catalog number) - USA, 2016
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album, available in downloadable digital form and on CD. The digital version contains two tracks not found on the CD issue: DARKNESS ON THE EDGE OF TOWN and IT'S HARD TO BE A SAINT IN THE CITY.
The Waybacks & Friends -- Merlefest Hillside Album Hour 2015: Back In The U.S.A.
CD - no label (no catalog number) - USA, 2016
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Various artists -- Songs Of Springsteen: A Covers Collection From 105.7 The Hawk's Bruce Brunch
10" EP - no label (no catalog number) - USA, 2016
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute EP. DANCING IN THE DARK is performed by Passenger.
Various artists -- Sounds Of The 80s Volume 2
2xCD - Sony Music (88985300232) - Europe, 2016
DANCING IN THE DARK is performed by Tom Odell.
Various artists -- The Boss Project: The Songs Of Bruce Springsteen
Digital album - no label (no catalog number) - Canada, 2016
This is a free download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album. DANCING IN THE DARK is performed by Josh Cole.
BeautyHeads -- TheBossCovers
Digital album - no label (no catalog number) - USA, 2017
This is a free download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album. DANCING IN THE DARK is titled "BossCover III" on this release.
Paradisia -- Sound Of Freedom
CD - Long Branch Records (SPV 269012 CD) - Germany, 2017
LP - Long Branch Records (SPV 269011 LP) - Germany, 2017
Alyssa Hankey -- Springsteen Covers
CD - no label (no catalog number) - USA, 2018
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Rock The Cradle -- Lullaby Versions Of Bruce Springsteen
Digital album - Rock The Cradle (unknown catalog number) - unknown country, 2018
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Kevin Heider -- Ohio: A Tribute To Springsteen
Digital album - no label (no catalog number) - USA, 2019
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Sweet Little Band -- Babies Go Bruce Springsteen
Digital album - RGS Music (unknown catalog number) - Argentina, 2020
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Heaven Is Shining -- Born In The USA
Digital album - Rosenklang (unknown catalog number) - Germany, 2021
This is a download-only digital Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
The Bruceband -- Born In The U.S.A. Live
Digital album - Dr K Music (no catalog number) - Holland, 2021
This is a download-only digital live Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
The Boss Brothers -- Live
Digital album - 729285 Records DK (no catalog number) - The Netherlands, 2023
This is a download-only digital live Bruce Springsteen tribute album.
Various artists -- Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska: A Celebration In Words And Music
CD - unknown label (unknown catalog number) - USA, 2024
This is a Bruce Springsteen tribute album. It's the soundtrack album for the PBS special that first aired on 10 Aug 2024 and was offered with a donation to the American public broadcaster. DANCING IN THE DARK is performed by Eric Church.
Mr. Campfire -- ...Through The Years
CD - no label (no catalog number) - Germany, unknown release year
Available Versions
List of available versions of DANCING IN THE DARK on this website:
DANCING IN THE DARK [Album version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 26 Jul 1984 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 21 Jun 1985 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 10 May 1988 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 15 Oct 1988 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 10 Jul 1992 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 23 Jul 1992 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 29 Aug 2002 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 16 Oct 2002 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 14 Jun 2003 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 04 Oct 2003 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 11 Nov 2014 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 01 Nov 2016 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live 07 Nov 2016 version]
DANCING IN THE DARK [Live July 2018 version]
Page last updated: 13 Feb 2023
