However, there is one benefit I always look forward to.
The loaner car.
Since I drive a Lexus, I usually get a pretty nice loaner. It's almost always a step up from my model, and it always has something my car doesn't: satellite radio.
The reason that brings me so much joy is it means I get to listen to E Street Radio. All Bruce all the time. It's a little bit of heaven for a Bruce tramp such as myself, who along with my other Bruce tramp pals live for the tours and chase him to stadiums and arenas all across the country and back to see him.
The beauty of Bruce is that even if I hear a song thirty times, each version is different in some way. Especially the concert versions E Street Radio frequently plays. There's always a new phrasing, different intonation, alternate name of "the girl" from the recorded version to pick up on.
The concerts they play - both official and the bootlegs - give a glimpse of the man as he's developing into the artist he is today. It's fascinating to listen as the sometimes silly banter of youth gives way to the thoughtfulness and insight that goes into the craft of a more mature Springsteen.
I personally can't imagine a better job than being an E Street Radio DJ and getting to listen to Bruce day in and day out.
Now, I know there are people who disagree with me. In fact, a good friend and colleague of mine thinks hosting a channel that only plays Bruce is a version of radio purgatory.
Of course, he's entitled to his opinion.
Even if it's wrong.
