In 1974, music critic Jon Landau referred to the emerging artist Bruce Springsteen as “rock and roll future,” a proclamation that initiated a significant partnership that would shape Springsteen’s legendary career. The new biopic “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere,” set to hit theaters on October 24, sheds light on the profound relationship between Springsteen and Landau, featuring Jeremy Allen White as Springsteen and Emmy-winner Jeremy Strong as Landau. The film specifically examines their friendship during the creation of Springsteen’s 1982 album, “Nebraska.”
Landau played a pivotal role in helping Springsteen navigate personal and professional challenges, ultimately guiding him out of a period of depression. This partnership proved crucial in propelling Springsteen toward becoming a beloved musical icon with an impressive 20 Grammy Awards to his name.
Born in New York City in 1947, Landau was deeply influenced by music from an early age. His father’s jazz records and his mother’s opera radio broadcasts instilled in him a profound appreciation for musical artistry. A transformative moment occurred when he attended a Pete Seeger concert at the age of four, shaping his passion for music and cementing his desire to pursue it as a career.
Before becoming a celebrated manager, Landau began his career as a music critic for notable magazines, including Crawdaddy and Rolling Stone. His career trajectory shifted dramatically after attending a Bruce Springsteen concert on May 9, 1974, where he was captivated by the young musician’s raw talent. Landau’s memorable review for The Real Paper generated significant buzz, leading him to reach out to Springsteen and eventually become part of his management team. This collaboration marked the beginning of one of the music industry’s most fruitful partnerships.
Landau co-produced Springsteen’s seminal album “Born to Run,” which featured hits like “Thunder Road,” helping to establish Springsteen as a household name. By 1978, after the release of “Darkness on the Edge of Town,” Landau took on the role of Springsteen’s manager, intensively focusing on making Springsteen’s illustrious vision a reality. This dedication led to further milestones, including the double album “The River,” which solidified Springsteen as a stadium headliner.
Landau’s unwavering support became especially crucial during the making of “Nebraska.” Springsteen faced significant personal challenges during this period, grappling with depression and reflecting on his life. Landau provided not only managerial oversight but also emotional support, encouraging Springsteen to seek professional help for his mental health struggles. This close bond is further explored in the film, showcasing how the two men navigated the complexities of fame and mental wellness together.
The decision to record “Nebraska” in its raw, acoustic form was groundbreaking, diverging from traditional studio practices of the time. While initially not receiving the commercial success of previous albums, “Nebraska” has since been lauded as one of Springsteen’s most influential works, showcasing a stark and emotional narrative.
Landau’s impact on the music industry was further recognized in 2020 when he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, an honor celebrated by Springsteen during the induction ceremony.
“Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere” highlights the bond between Landau and Springsteen, with Strong taking a deep dive into understanding Landau’s character through careful observation of their interactions. The film promises to showcase their unique dynamic and the heartfelt connection that has endured for decades. Audiences can look forward to the exploration of this legendary partnership, set against the backdrop of America’s evolving music landscape when the movie opens in theaters on October 24.