In 1982, Bruce Springsteen recorded this raw, dark demo of “Born in the USA” during the sessions that would spawn his Nebraska album, my favorite of all his releases. “Born in the USA” is about the impact of the Vietnam War on America and the country’s mistreatment of veterans upon their return. Of course the familiar version of the song ultimately released in 1984 has been reinterpreted by many as a patriotic anthem because, y’know, who pays attention to lyrics.
(via r/ObscureMedia)