From Concord to Springsteen: The Journey of Warren Zanes
In early November, a special screening of the film "Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere" took place at the Red River Theatres in Concord, New Hampshire. The movie delves into Bruce Springsteen's recording of the album "Nebraska" before his iconic "Born in the U.S.A." hits. Concord native Warren Zanes, who wrote the book the film is based on, attended the screening and engaged in a Q&A session with the audience. Zanes, who grew up in Concord, has a deep connection to the town and shared his journey from a local musician to a renowned author.
Zanes' musical career took off when he and his brother formed the rock band The Del Fuegos in the 1980s. Their success led them to encounters with music legends like Bruce Springsteen, who joined them on stage during a performance. Zanes' passion for rock music and his admiration for Springsteen inspired him to write a book about the making of the "Nebraska" album, which resonated deeply with him. Springsteen's involvement in the project and their visit to the recording location added a personal touch to Zanes' writing process.
The success of Zanes' book led to its adaptation into a film, with Springsteen's support throughout the production. The movie, starring Jeremy Allen White, was released in theaters, marking a significant milestone in Zanes' career. Seeing his story come to life on the big screen and receiving validation from Springsteen and his family was a fulfilling moment for Zanes as a writer. Today, Zanes resides in New Jersey, where he continues to teach, create rock documentaries, and occasionally reunite with The Del Fuegos for concerts.
Zanes' journey from a small town in Concord to writing Springsteen's biography showcases his evolution as a writer and his enduring passion for music. His childhood memory of winning a smile contest on a local TV show serves as a reminder of his humble beginnings and how far he has come in his career. As he embarks on new projects and collaborations, Zanes remains grateful for the opportunities that have shaped his creative endeavors and musical legacy.