"Born in the U.S.A." is the seventh studio album by American singer-songwriter Bruce Springsteen, released on June 4, 1984, by Columbia Records. Co-produced by Springsteen, Jon Landau, Steven Van Zandt, and Chuck Plotkin, the album was recorded with the E Street Band in New York City over two years. Some tracks originated from demos that also produced the solo album "Nebraska" (1982). The sessions produced between 70 and 90 songs, with some later released as B-sides or on compilations.
The album marked a shift to a more pop-influenced rock and roll sound, characterized by prominent synthesizers, while maintaining Springsteen's focus on working-class struggles, disillusionment, patriotism, and personal relationships. The cover, featuring Springsteen against the American flag, was photographed by Annie Leibovitz and is highly acclaimed.
"Born in the U.S.A." was a massive commercial success, supported by an extensive promotional campaign with seven singles, five music videos, and three dance remixes. It topped charts in nine countries and became the best-selling album of 1985, with over 30 million copies sold worldwide. All seven singles reached the U.S. top ten, including "Dancing in the Dark" and "Born in the U.S.A." The album solidified Springsteen's superstar status and was supported by the Born in the U.S.A. Tour.
While Springsteen later expressed mixed feelings about the album and the fame it brought, it remains one of his most acclaimed works. It is considered one of the best albums of the 1980s and of all time, appearing on numerous greatest albums lists and being inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2012.
