Bruce Springsteen’s legendary status might never have been if it weren't for the sheer brilliance of "Born to Run." Before this iconic album cemented his place in rock and roll history, Springsteen was on the verge of losing his record deal.

The story, as recalled by music biographer Peter Ames Carlin, highlights the precarious position Springsteen found himself in during the mid-1970s. Carlin's first encounter with "Born to Run" was a formative experience, a moment etched in his memory from a childhood car ride. He was just a 12-year-old on his way home from a Boy Scout hike when the song blasted through the car radio. Little did he know then, that song was not just a catchy tune but a lifeline for a struggling artist.

After the release of his first two albums, "Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J." and "The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle," Springsteen had garnered critical acclaim but failed to achieve significant commercial success. Columbia Records, his label, was reportedly losing patience. The pressure was on for Springsteen to deliver a hit, something that would translate into sales and justify the investment the label had made in him.

"Born to Run" became that hit, and more. The album, released in August 1975, was a critical and commercial triumph. Its anthemic sound, Springsteen's evocative lyrics, and the raw energy of the E Street Band resonated deeply with audiences. The title track, in particular, became an instant classic, a song of escape, hope, and the yearning for something more.

The success of "Born to Run" not only saved Springsteen's record deal but also launched him into superstardom. It transformed him from a promising young artist into a rock icon, a voice for the working class, and a symbol of American dreams. The album remains a testament to Springsteen's talent and perseverance, a reminder that even on the brink of failure, greatness can emerge. It's a story of how one song, one album, can change everything.