WEST LONG BRANCH, N.J. (August 25, 2025) — Blue Hawk Records, the student-run record label at Monmouth University, will release “Runaway American Dream” on Sept. 5, a reimagined EP honoring the 50th anniversary of Bruce Springsteen’s landmark album “Born to Run.” The project coincides with a week of celebratory events on campus hosted by the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music.
Under the direction of Joe Rapolla, chair of the Department of Music and Theatre Arts, and founding advisor of Blue Hawk Records, students and alumni produced original interpretations of songs from Springsteen’s 1975 album. The reinterpretations include new arrangements and modern influences drawn from hip-hop, indie rock and electronic music.
“This project challenged our students to honor a rock-and-roll classic while exploring its relevance for a new generation,” Rapolla said. “They’ve created something that is both innovative and deeply respectful of Springsteen’s legacy.”
The Center, which houses Springsteen’s personal artifacts, recordings and manuscripts, invited the label to undertake the project as part of its mission to support student engagement with American music history and culture. The University broke ground on a new 30,000-square-foot facility on its campus as a new home for the Center in 2023.
“This collaboration exemplifies the immersive, hands-on learning experiences that set Monmouth University apart,” said Patrick F. Leahy. “Through the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music, our students engage directly with the history and business of American music. It’s one reason Billboard continues to rank Monmouth among the nation’s top music business school, citing our interdisciplinary model that bridges music, culture, and commerce.”
The EP release culminates with a live performance by Blue Hawk Records artists on Sept. 7, concluding the university’s “Born to Run” 50th anniversary celebration. Event details are available at springsteenarchives.org.
About Monmouth University
Monmouth University is the region’s premier private coastal university offering a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs in a dynamic and personalized learning environment. Located in West Long Branch, New Jersey, Monmouth University’s magnificent coastal campus is approximately one hour from both New York City and Philadelphia. Innovative academic programs, individual faculty attention, and nationally ranked Division I athletics make this private university a great place to find your future.
For more information about Monmouth University, visit monmouth.edu.
Learn more about Blue Hawk Records at bluehawkrecords.com.
