Bruce Springsteen Honors ‘Backstreets’ Founder Charlies Cross at Pittsburgh Show

Bruce Springsteen  paid tribute to Backstreets fanzine founder journalist Charles Cross, who passed away Aug. 9 at the age of 67 on socials and at the E Street Band’s show in Pittsburgh Sunday night (Aug. 18).

“Here on E Street, we’re saddened over the passing of Charles Cross,” The Boss wrote on Instagram. “As the founder of Backstreets, Charles created a wonderful magazine and positive community that gave our fans the chance to connect through their stories, ideas and shared experiences.”

He added, “We’re grateful to him for bringing conversations and insights around our music to so many. He was an exceptional journalist, publisher, thinker and facilitator, and he will be missed.”

The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer dedicated the song “Backstreets” to Cross at the show this weekend.

“His great writing and his influence and his help in communicating between our band and our fans will be sorely missed,” he said.

The E Street Band rolls into Philadelphia for two shows this week at Citizens Bank Park on Aug. 21 and 23.