Bruce Springsteen Remembers Joe DePugh, His ‘Glory Days’ Inspiration
Bruce Springsteen has reflected on the life and legacy of Joe DePugh, a New Jersey baseball player whose story inspired the iconic song “Glory Days.” DePugh passed away at the age of 75, prompting Springsteen to honor their friendship.
A Fond Farewell
In an emotional post on Instagram, Springsteen shared his memories of DePugh, writing, “Just a moment to mark the passing of Freehold native and ballplayer Joe DePugh. He was a good friend when I needed one. ‘He could throw that speedball by you, make you look like a fool’ …. Glory Days my friend.”
Shared History
Springsteen and DePugh’s paths crossed in their hometown of Freehold, New Jersey, where they played baseball together in their youth. Their friendship took a memorable turn in 1973 during a chance encounter at a bar in Neptune, which subsequently became a pivotal moment highlighted in the lyrics of Springsteen’s acclaimed album, *Born in the U.S.A.*
DePugh later recounted this meeting, explaining how he and Springsteen reminisced for hours, reconnecting over their shared experiences. “Whenever we’re together, it’s the same dynamic: I’m the star and he’s the guy at the end of the bench,” DePugh commented in a 2011 interview with the Palm Beach Post. “That’s who he has always been to me, my right fielder.”
The Impact of ‘Glory Days’
DePugh was honored to be a part of Springsteen’s music. “Glory Days” reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 when it was released in 1985. In an interview, DePugh expressed his delight, stating that he was “tickled pink” to be referenced in the song. He humorously recalled how he initially misunderstood the lyrics, thinking “all we kept talking about was glory days,” instead of “all he kept talking about was glory days,” leading him to believe it was a lighthearted jab at him.
A Lasting Friendship
The bond between DePugh and Springsteen remained strong over the years, with both men occasionally crossing paths in Florida, as Springsteen owned a home nearby and DePugh resided in Lake Worth. DePugh’s passing, following a long battle with cancer, leaves a profound impact on his community and friends.
Rich Kane, a longtime teacher and coach in Freehold, reflected on DePugh’s character, saying, “All he wanted to do was raise his brothers, play baseball, play basketball and just hang in Freehold Borough. This one hurt. Joe and I were very close.”
Conclusion
Joe DePugh’s legacy as a dedicated family man and friend lives on through the memories shared by those who knew him, as well as through the lasting tribute of Springsteen’s “Glory Days.”
