Rock icon Bruce Springsteen shocked and delighted fans at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre Wednesday night by opening his concert with a high-energy cover of the Bee Gees’ disco classic “Stayin’ Alive.”
Paying homage to the Bee Gees—who originated from nearby Redcliffe—Springsteen’s choice of opener was more than a crowd-pleaser; it was a heartfelt nod to Australia’s musical heritage. Accompanied by the mighty E Street Band, Springsteen transformed the 1977 hit into a soulful, rock-infused anthem, seamlessly blending his signature style with the disco era’s enduring groove.
The crowd erupted as the opening chords rang out, quickly recognizing the iconic tune. Springsteen, often known as “The Boss” for his commanding stage presence and genre-defying performances, danced and sang with infectious energy, making the moment one of the most talked-about highlights of his 2014 “High Hopes” tour.
“It was completely unexpected, and absolutely brilliant,” said one fan after the show. “Only Bruce could take a disco hit and make it feel like one of his own.”
This isn’t the first time Springsteen has surprised audiences with unconventional covers. Throughout his career, he’s incorporated a range of unexpected songs into his setlists, from punk to pop, always adding his unique flair.
Springsteen’s Brisbane performance of “Stayin’ Alive” quickly went viral online, garnering praise from fans and even members of the Gibb family. It served as both a tribute to the Bee Gees’ legacy and a reminder of Springsteen’s unparalleled ability to reinvent and reenergize the familiar.
As the High Hopes tour continued through Australia, one thing was clear: Bruce Springsteen still knows how to keep the music alive—and stayin
