Bruce Springsteen's first album was released in 1973. Titled Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J., it arrived on January 5, 1973, through Columbia Records and introduced the singer-songwriter's densely written, New Jersey-inspired rock style.
Although the album was released in 1973, most of it was recorded earlier, from June through October 1972, at 914 Sound Studios in Blauvelt, New York. Columbia initially rejected an early version because executives felt it lacked a strong potential single. Springsteen then wrote and recorded “Blinded by the Light” and “Spirit in the Night,” which completed the album.
The record received positive critical attention but sold modestly at first. It includes early versions of songs that became important parts of Springsteen's catalogue, including “Growin' Up” and “For You.” A common mix-up is confusing its release year with the 1972 recording sessions. The E Street Band was also beginning to take shape around this period, with Clarence Clemons joining during the album's creation.