Bruce Springsteen Celebrates ‘Independence Day’ in Paris

He may be ‘Born in the U.S.A.,’ but Bruce Springsteen was a foreigner abroad on the Fourth of July this year. While fireworks may not have been on tap for him Wednesday night, that didn’t deter him from performing a song that shares a name with the day itself.

As the band cleared the stage, Springsteen took a seat at the piano where he performed the touching song, ‘Independence Day.’ The singer was met with applause by the knowing audience as the mournful opening notes rang through the Bercy venue in Paris, France.

The song, which is more about personal relationships than it is about patriotism, marked its ‘Wrecking Ball’ Tour debut at the stop. It initially appeared on Springsteen’s fifth studio album, ‘The River.’ After finishing the song, which clearly affected Springsteen, the vocalist breathed a sigh of relief and was met with a standing ovation from the crowd.

Springsteen will remain in Europe through the end of July, but will make his way back stateside starting with a three-night stand in Boston Aug. 14, 15 & 18. The first two shows are at Fenway Park, with the final date taking place at Gillette Stadium. The singer will remain on the East Coast through the three-night finale of the leg Sept. 19, 21 & 22 at East Rutherford’s MetLife Stadium.