Bruce Springsteen - Nightshift -

Springsteen’s version stays faithful to the original’s smooth R&B groove but adds his signature gravelly, emotional depth.

The accompanying music video, directed by Thom Zimny , features Springsteen performing with a dapper, reserved energy, emphasizing the lyrics with a slight shuffle and hand play. Critical and Live Reception Bruce Springsteen - Nightshift

Critics were largely positive, noting that Springsteen sounded "unburdened" and "lighthearted". Though some felt the production leaned toward "plastic soul," others praised his ability to showcase a vocal range rarely seen in his rock anthems. Bruce Springsteen - Night Shift #MetroFmSA - Facebook Though some felt the production leaned toward "plastic

The Soul of the Night: Springsteen's Tribute to the Greats In late 2022, Bruce Springsteen traded his denim for a gray sports jacket to pay homage to the roots of American soul. The standout single from his 21st studio album, , was a reverent cover of the Commodores’ 1985 classic, " Nightshift ". A Legacy Reimagined A Legacy Reimagined Originally written as an elegy

Originally written as an elegy for soul legends and Jackie Wilson —both of whom passed away in 1984—the song imagines a celestial "night shift" where these icons continue their craft. For Springsteen, the track was more than just a cover; it was a cornerstone of his project. He was so moved by the recording process that he, producer Ron Aniello , and engineer Rob Lebret dubbed themselves " The Nightshift " while completing the album. The Sound of "Nightshift"

Choosing to leave his guitar behind, "The Boss" focused entirely on his singing, delivering what critics described as "crushed velvet" vocals.

While it sounds like a full band, the track was largely a collaboration between Springsteen and Aniello, who played nearly every instrument except for the E Street Horns .