Springsteen goes tiny

Tuesday, August 6, 2024 – First spotted on NPR Music's "The Best Songs of 2023" list in All Songs Considered for her debut album title track, "twenty something," Alana Springsteen appeared in NPR Music's Tiny Desk Concert series live from the NPR Music headquarters on Monday.

"I grew up studying Tiny Desk Concerts. I'd memorize them and dissect the creative decisions and departures that were made from the original versions of the songs. They were always the most inspiring display of artistry to me. No production, effects, or tracks to hide behind. Just yourself, your band and your God-given talent. I think that's why Tiny Desk is as revered as it is by artists and fans," said Springsteen.

Springsteen played four songs during the 18-minute concert - "ghost in my guitar," "Hot Honey," a song by Tiesto, "feels good" and "twenty something."

On "ghost in my guitar," Springsteen traded the electric guitar performed by Chris Stapleton on her album for a cello. "feels good" is a new song.

"In a world where there's so much noise and it's so easy to fake perfection, it's a platform that removes the possibility of inauthenticity. I'm still completely shook that I got to play it. I spent a lot of time dreaming up these arrangements with some of the best players I know. I'm grateful to Gideon Klein, Alec Parrish, Josh Beatty and Daniel Cooper for being by my side for this performance."

"I definitely hid all sorts of guitar picks, capos and personal items all over that set to prove I had been there. To the NPR Music team, thank you for believing in my songs and hearing the intent behind them. You made a little girl's dream come true."