The new edition of Nebraska reveals the origin story of Springsteen's bleak masterpiece, including the 'Electric Nebraska' sessions.
As a fan of John Ford, Springsteen is familiar with the line from The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance:
“When the legend becomes fact, print the legend.”
This line comments on the malleability of truth and American history, relevant to Springsteen and the intrigue surrounding Nebraska and its successor Born In The USA.
Nebraska was made on a 4-track cassette recorder in Springsteen's bedroom, while Born In The USA was a state of the nation address that made him a superstar.
Fans have obsessed over the demos that became Nebraska, which were allegedly made after Springsteen failed to better them with his band.
Author's summary: Review of Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska '82.