“Backstreets” is a song by Bruce Springsteen from the album Born to Run, which was released in 1975. In the original vinyl release, it concludes side one of the record.

.”Backstreets” begins with a minute-long instrumental introduction that features pianist Roy Bittan playing both piano and organ, with only occasional traces of any other instruments being heard. In his review of Born to Run for Rolling Stone, writer Greil Marcus said: “Backstreets” … begins with music so stately, so heartbreaking, that it might be the prelude to a rock & roll version of The Iliad.

“Backstreets” has also been interpreted as a narrative about a homosexual relationship because the name Terry is sexually ambiguous. It has also been said to potentially represent a platonic but intense friendship between two men that has faded. However, listening to any of the numerous bootleg versions of “Backstreets” from the 1978 Darkness Tour, Terry is repeatedly referred to as “she” and “little girl,” indicating that Terry is indeed a woman. Another interpretation is that it is about Springsteen’s relationship with his early 1970s girlfriend, Diane Lozito. In his autobiography, Born to Run, Springsteen states that “Backstreets” is about a broken friendship.

Personnel:
– Bruce Springsteen: Vocals and guitar.
– Garry Tallent: Bass.
– Max Weinberg: Drums.
– Roy Bittan: Piano and organ.