Jamiesfeast – Adele Zerilli Springsteen, the beloved mother of Bruce Springsteen, passed away at the age of 98. She was not only a dedicated legal secretary but also his muse and dance partner during his concerts. Her presence in Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Nation and among fans will always be cherished.
Bruce Springsteen took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news of his mother’s passing. In a poignant post, he announced that Adele Springsteen, born on May 4, 1925, bid farewell on January 31, 2024. Alongside his heartfelt message, Springsteen posted a touching video of him and his mother dancing to the timeless melody of Glenn Miller’s classic “In the Mood.” The legendary musician also honored his mother by quoting lyrics from his song “The Wish,” which pays tribute to her.
“I have vivid memories of waking up in the morning to the sound of your alarm clock ringing, Mom. I would lie in bed, listening to you as you got ready for work, the distinct sound of your makeup case opening and closing on the sink.”
In 2021, Springsteen disclosed that her struggle with Alzheimer’s disease had spanned a decade, rendering her unable to speak or stand. Although the cause and further specifics were not immediately disclosed.
As the last Italian-American Zerilli sister and a mother of three, she played a pivotal role in Bruce Springsteen’s anthem “American Land.” The song pays tribute to various families, including the McNicholases, Posalskis, Smiths, and of course, the Zerillis.
As a child, the native of New York City relocated to Freehold, with no inkling of the fact that her future children would transform New Jersey into a realm of lyrical greatness.
Adele Springsteen’s infectious and lively charisma made her a magnet for fans in her own unique way. Rolling Stone magazine even stated that there is video proof of Adele passionately rocking out on stage alongside Bruce as far back as 1992.
According to biographer Dave Marsh, Bruce described her as someone who was incredibly intelligent, incredibly strong, and incredibly creative. He also noted that she had a remarkable ability to stay positive and not let anything discourage her.
Her influence had a profound impact.
In a heartfelt speech at Ellis Island in 2010, the musician expressed his gratitude towards his mother and aunts for being the pillar of strength that held their family together during challenging times.
In 2002, during an interview with “Uncut” magazine, he expressed his admiration for his mother’s consistent work ethic. He mentioned that her life was characterized by a relentless dedication to work, which he greatly respected. He admired her ability to juggle work and home responsibilities, describing it as noble.
He mentioned that he would occasionally drop by her workplace, which was bustling with individuals who appeared to be driven and focused. Witnessing these ordinary gestures of determination and dedication served as a great source of inspiration for him.
As a child, Bruce’s mother managed to gather some money, as depicted in another section of “The Wish,” a song he recorded in 1987. He shared a quote from the song on Instagram on Thursday.
A small boy and his mother stood outside a dilapidated music store, shivering in the cold.
On the pinnacle of the Christmas tree, a single dazzling star illuminates the night. Just beneath it, a shiny, brand-new Japanese guitar rests, waiting to be played.
“It was a sight to behold, with me wearing my stylish Beatle boots and you donning pink curlers and matador pants. You eagerly dragged me to the couch, urging me to perform the twist dance for our amused uncles and aunts.”
As her son achieved success on a grand scale, she began performing in larger venues, spanning from America to Europe.
She joyfully explored various musical genres, although she was well-versed in the audience-cameo ritual of “Dancing in the Dark.”
In 2012, she had the opportunity to showcase her dance moves and lend her vocals as a background performer during the electrifying performance of “Twist and Shout” at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium. It was a memorable experience for her. Fast forward to March 2016, when she reached the remarkable age of 90, she and her son joyously swayed their hips to the energetic beats of “Ramrod” at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York. It was an incredible moment shared between mother and son, creating lasting memories.
Steven Van Zandt, a member of the E Street Band, took to Twitter on Thursday to express his heartfelt tribute to Adele Springsteen. He referred to her as the “Matriarch of our family” and emphasized her unwavering ability to radiate positive energy. Van Zandt acknowledged her unique personality, stating that she will forever remain a constant presence in their lives, even if it’s through dancing in the audience.
In 1998, she experienced the loss of her husband, Douglas, who also served as an inspiration for some of Bruce’s songs.
Surviving them are their daughters, Pamela Springsteen and Virginia Shave, along with a loving extended family.
Bruce’s sentiments on Ellis Island were surely shared by many.
He expressed his gratitude to his mother, saying, “Mom, I really love you.”