This groundbreaking book investigates Bruce Springsteen’s role as an American ‘sound ambassador’ outside the USA, particularly in Europe. Through the lens of Springsteen’s Neapolitan roots and Italian heritage via his mother’s family, the book explores the diffusion of the Blues in fascist Italy and the profound impact of Rock and Roll, from Elvis to Bruce. During the Cold War, music illuminated the profound shock of a generation, giving the chance to express emotions such as fear, guilt and shame. Springsteen interpreted the peculiar sense of helplessness of many young people in Western society, offering a transnational Cold War generation a sense of connection, providing redemption through the re-enchantment of Rock and Roll.
Marilisa Merolla is a historian, best known for her work on the impact of rock and roll music on history. She is Professor of Contemporary History at Sapienza Università di Roma, Italy, and the founding director of the “Springsteen as History Project” at The New School, New York City. Among her many international publications, she is the author of the essay Elvis Outside the USA included in Rethinking Elvis (2025), and the book Rock ‘n’ Roll: Italian Way (2011).