Bruce Springsteen has shared his interpretation of Ben E. King’s 1962 track “Don’t Play That Song,” along with an accompanying music video. The track comes from Springsteen’s much-anticipated covers LP, comprised of iconic soul songs, Only The Strong Survive, which will release due Nov. 11 via Columbia Records.
“Don’t Play That Song” serves as Springsteen’s third preview of the fast-approaching record and follows in the footsteps of his interpretations of “Nightshift” and “I Do Love You (Indeed I Do).”
The performative video released with “Don’t Play That Song” was directed by Thom Zimny and is an addition to vibrant music videos showcasing the E-Street Band celebrating their reunion. The returning choir, string ensemble, E-Street Horns and new members of Springsteen’s talented selection all gather in a circle backing the Boss around a cheerful audience as they swoon with fervor and soul.
Upon its initial release in ‘62, “Don’t Play That Song (You Lied)” hit the No. 11 and No. 2 spots on the Hot 100 chart. The tune was co-written by King’s wife, Betty Nelson, and the founder of Atlantic Records, Ahmet Ertegun. The track was among King’s biggest hits and served as the title track of his third studio LP, Don’t Play That Song!, next to his widely acclaimed songs “Stand by Me” and “Ecstasy.”
On the interpretation, Springsteen pleads, “But you told me that you loved me/ And you told me that you cared/ You said you’d go with me, darling.” Only The Strong Survive marks Springsteen’s second covers album, the prior dating back to his 2006 Pete Seeger summons, We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions.
Listen to Springsteen’s “Don’t Play That Song” below.

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