At the Academy Museum Gala on October 18, Bruce Springsteen made a memorable appearance, delivering a rare and deeply emotional live performance of his iconic song “Streets of Philadelphia.” The evening also marked a special honor for Springsteen, as he received the inaugural Legacy Award, recognizing “an artist whose creative legacy has inspired generations of storytellers and left a lasting impact on culture.”
To celebrate the occasion, Springsteen took to the stage with a heartfelt three-song set, performing “Atlantic City” from his Nebraska album, “Land of Hope and Dreams” from the E Street Band’s collection, and the Academy Award-winning “Streets of Philadelphia.” His performance offered a moving reflection on his decades-long career, blending raw emotion and introspection in a way that only Springsteen can.
The Meaning and Impact of “Streets of Philadelphia”
Originally composed for the 1993 film Philadelphia, starring Tom Hanks, the song “Streets of Philadelphia” was written to capture the pain, isolation, and humanity at the heart of the AIDS crisis. Released in February 1994, the track earned Springsteen an Academy Award for Best Original Song and four Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year. It remains one of the most poignant and socially significant works in his catalog.
Describing its haunting atmosphere, Far Out magazine once noted: “The song begins with a simple, stretched-out drumbeat, followed by a warm synth that eases listeners into a dreamlike state. Springsteen’s voice is fragile yet powerful as he sings, ‘I was bruised and battered / I couldn’t tell what I felt / I was unrecognisable to myself.’” The publication hailed the track as “one of his most moving compositions,” remarking that it “came about almost by accident.”
Springsteen’s Life on Film
Fans of the legendary musician will soon see his story brought to the big screen in the upcoming biopic Deliver Me From Nowhere, starring Jeremy Allen White as Springsteen. The film delves into a defining period in the artist’s life, following him through the emotional and creative challenges of recording his acclaimed 1982 album Nebraska, while navigating the immense pressure of fame.
In a recent conversation with White at Spotify’s London headquarters, Springsteen referred to the film as a “miracle,” expressing admiration for the team bringing his journey to life. The highly anticipated biopic is set to premiere on October 24, promising to offer fans an intimate look at one of rock’s most revered storytellers.
Watch his touching live performance below:
Bruce Springsteen performing his Oscar-winning song, tonight at the @AcademyMuseum Gala. pic.twitter.com/xiPnuQEO9K
— Matt Dentler (@MattDentler) October 19, 2025