Bruce Springsteen ‘Live’ release prompts celebration (1986)

This story originally appeared in the Asbury Park Press on Nov. 11, 1986. 

ASBURY PARK – Thousands of fans jammed Palace Amusements last night to celebrate the release of “Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band Live/1975-1985” at a three-hour party thrown by New York rock radio station WXRK-FM (92.3).

“Tillie” is lifted out with a crane to be preserved at Palace Amusements in Asbury Park, New Jersey, on June 11, 2004.

While music from the new album blared in the background, Springsteen fans took advantage of free amusement rides, drinks and food from 7 to 10 p.m. A party atmosphere prevailed despite long lines and cramped conditions.

City police officer Genaro DeSane estimated the crowd at 3,000.

“Everything’s gone real smooth,” he said. “There’ve been no reports of problems.”

“The whole idea was to get out and celebrate the album,” said Tom Chiusano, general manager of WXRK, also known as K-Rock. “I think it’s terrific.”

Fans keep buying the new Bruce Springsteen “Live” collection at area stores.

“I had to come out and see what’s happening, and to hear the album for the first time,” said Jackson Township resident George Terebinsky, who called himself a “long-time Bruce fan.”

Leaning against a ticket booth to survey the scene, Cheryl Lasky was quick to point out that she comes Freehold, Bruce’s hometown.

“I’ve loved Bruce since the beginning,” she said. “His music is so down-to-earth.”

“I came out here ’cause I like Springsteen and his music,” said Aberdeen Township resident Ken Walling. “It’s a nice night.”

Museum co-founder Stephen Bumball said he was “pretty overwhelmed” by the size of the crowd.

“I never anticipated this many people,” he said, as groups of people gathered to view old photos and posters of Springsteen and other area rock performers.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Springsteen Live release prompts celebration, 1986