Hungry Heart

by Bruce Springsteen

What is “Hungry Heart” really about?

If you’ve ever wondered what “Hungry Heart” by Bruce Springsteen is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.

Bruce Springsteen's 'Hungry Heart' delves into the universal quest for belonging and connection, illustrating how everyone strives for a place to call home and a sense of communal love.

So… what’s this song really about?

In 'Hungry Heart,' Bruce Springsteen captures a poignant reflection on human desires and the search for fulfillment. The song addresses the innate need for emotional and physical security, symbolized through the metaphor of the 'hungry heart.' Springsteen explores the tension between autonomy and community, suggesting that while independence is valued, true contentment often comes from companionship and the establishment of personal connections. This longing for attachment and a settled space strikes a common chord, resonant with anyone who's ever felt adrift or isolated. Through its recurring chorus, the piece emphasizes the cyclical and universal nature of these emotions, making it relatable to a broad audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What inspired Bruce Springsteen to write 'Hungry Heart'?
Bruce Springsteen was initially inspired to write 'Hungry Heart' for The Ramones, but decided to keep it for himself after his manager suggested it could be a hit.

Q: Did 'Hungry Heart' achieve any notable chart success?
'Hungry Heart' was a significant commercial success, becoming Bruce Springsteen's first major hit single on the Billboard charts.

Q: What album features the song 'Hungry Heart'?
'Hungry Heart' is featured on Bruce Springsteen's album 'The River,' released in 1980.

Lyrics to “Hungry Heart”

41 Contributors
[Keyboard Solo]
La, la, la, la-la
Oh, yeah
La, la, la, la-la
[Verse 3]
Everybody needs a place to rest
Everybody wants to have a home
Don't make no difference what nobody says
Ain't nobody like to be alone, well
[Chorus]
Everybody's got a hungry heart
Everybody's got a hungry heart
Lay down your money and you play your part
Everybody's got a hu-hu-hungry heart
[Outro]
(Everybody's got a hungry heart) Oh, yeah
(Everybody's got a hungry heart) We've got a hu-hu-hungry heart
(Everybody's got a hungry heart) Oh, yeah
(Everybody's got a hungry heart) Ooh, yeah
(Ahh, ahh, ahh) La-la-la-la-la-la-la
Ooh, yeah, yeah (Ahh, ahh, ahh)
La, la, la, la, la-la (Ahh, ahh, ahh)
Oh, yeah, mmm, mmm, mm-mmm, mmm
Oh (Ahh, ahh, ahh)