Even Steven

HE’S A ROCK ’N’ ROLL SAVANT, SPRINGSTEEN’S RIGHT-HAND MAN, THE SOPRANOS’ SILVIO AND CO-PRODUCER OF CLASSIC ALBUMS SUCH AS THE RIVER AND BORN IN THE USA. WE TALK CRAFT, CONDUCT AND LIBERATING GREATNESS WITH LITTLE STEVEN…

- Matt Parker

You know Steven Van Zandt. He is the E Street Band’s self-described ‘consigliere’ and six-string commandant. A man who went from bar band to stadium conductor with Bruce Springsteen, but still found time for a major role in the greatest TV series of all time and a politically-motivated solo career as Little Steven, which he used to help end apartheid in South Africa. He knows everyone. The Boss was the best man at his wedding – an event that was officiated by Little Richard and featured a reception set from Percy Sledge. He has recently jammed with Paul McCartney. He has an astounding knowledge of the golden era of rock ’n’ roll, which he regards as America’s Renaissance period. He views music as if from an aerial perspective – a rich map of clear connections. He is warm and funny. His speech is interspersed with furtive asides that feel conspiratorial and accommodating – as if he’s making you part of the secret. When we run out of time, which passes quickly in his company, he courteously extends our conversation, pushing back his other interviews: ‘Do you have time to keep going?’, he asks TG. Erm, yes Stevie, we do…

GO BEYOND YOUR INSTRUMENT

Playing, maintains Stevie, is just the beginning…