Times must be hard: The Boss is now working the “Nightshift.”
Bruce Springsteen’s new single, which was released Friday, is a moody, bluesy redo of the 1985 Commodores hit that paid homage to R&B legends Marvin Gaye and Jackie Wilson. It’s from the rock icon’s upcoming album, “Only the Strong Survive,” a collection of classic soul covers due Nov. 11.
Opening with some bongos that set the tone for his easy-rumbling reflection, Springsteen’s rendition is fairly faithful to the original. But of course, it’s the rocker’s distinctive delivery — grizzlier than ever at 73 — that sets it apart from the original sung by Walter Orange on the Commodores’ first hit after Lionel Richie left the group.
Springsteen also released the “Nightshift” video, which features the suited-up star looking as dapper as he’s ever been. He’s definitely bringing the dashing daddy vibes here.
The performance clip — featuring some interpretive dancers, gospel background singers and a full band that is most definitely not the E Street Band — finds a soulful Springsteen channeling the late R&B greats who have found “another home … on the nightshift.”
“Nightshift” is the second track to preview “Only the Strong Survive,” following Springsteen’s cover of Frank Wilson’s “Do I Love You (Indeed I Do).” The 15-track LP will also feature Bruced-up takes on the Supremes’ “Someday We’ll Be Together,” Jimmy Ruffin’s “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted” and the Temptations’ “I Wish It Would Rain.” Meanwhile, Sam Moore — of “Soul Man” duo Sam & Dave — joins the Boss on a remake of Dobie Gray’s “Soul Days.”
Although “Only the Strong Survive” is a solo Springsteen album, he hasn’t forgotten about the E Street Band: In February, he’ll be kicking off a tour with his beloved bunch, which hits the New York area in April.