From Small Things (Big Things One Day Come): The Serendipitous Collaboration Between Dave Edmunds and Bruce Springsteen
Dave Edmunds, a British rocker, gained popularity by interpreting songs from ace songwriters like Nick Lowe, Elvis Costello, and Graham Parker. However, it was Bruce Springsteen, the iconic American rock and roller, who contributed the beloved track "From Small Things (Big Things One Day Come)" to Edmunds' repertoire. Springsteen offered the song to Edmunds during a backstage meeting in the UK, where he was touring in support of his album The River.
Springsteen, known for his prolific songwriting, had an abundance of material from The River sessions. He shared the unreleased track with Edmunds, drawing parallels to Chuck Berry's style. Edmunds recorded the song on his 1982 album D.E. 7th, staying true to the rollicking spirit of the original composition.
"From Small Things (Big Things One Day Come)" narrates the story of a girl who constantly seeks greener pastures, leaving a trail of broken hearts and unexpected consequences. Despite the dark undertones of the lyrics, Edmunds' rendition captures the essence of the song without passing judgment on the characters' actions.
The protagonist's journey from a humble job at a hamburger stand to a series of romantic entanglements unfolds in the song's verses. Her restless nature leads to unexpected twists, including a murder and a longing for a return to domestic bliss. Throughout the narrative, the girl's belief in the transformative power of small beginnings remains a constant theme.
Dave Edmunds' recording of "From Small Things (Big Things One Day Come)" stands as a testament to the serendipitous collaboration between two rock legends. The song's enduring appeal and Edmunds' interpretation showcase the magic that can happen when musical talents converge.