Bruce Springsteen Saves Kid from Detention by Signing Absence Note

BY Sarah MurphyPublished Sep 30, 2016

Bruce Springsteen is currently taking his Born to Run memoir and its accompanying Chapter and Verse album on a book tour, entertaining fans young and old with his anecdotes at book signings across the U.S.
 
And while most of us have endured late nights and subsequently shitty mornings in order to see our favourite stars, one kid in Philadelphia got particularly lucky and earned himself a free pass to show up late to class after his encounter with the Boss.
 
In addition to taking in a live show at Citizens Bank Park earlier this month — where Springsteen and his band played their longest show to date (on the first day of school, no less) — Mike Fenerty and his son Michael went to Springsteen's Born to Run signing at the Philadelphia Central Library yesterday (September 29).
 
Worried that the signing might turn into one of the musician's marathon-like shows, the Fenertys came prepared with a get-out-of-class-free card. The young fan presented his hero with a note excusing his lateness or absence from class due to the excursion, and Springsteen indulged the fifth grader by signing off on it himself.
 
Speaking to Philly.com, the kid's dad recalled the encounter:
 
My son said, "Bruce, would you sign my absence note?" [Springsteen] lit up. He was affectionate toward Michael as soon as he saw him. He said, "I have to read it first, that's how I got in trouble with my first contract." He said, "I hope you don't get in trouble." My son was very starstruck. It was a very cool experience."
 
He also noted that the school was given a photocopy of the note, so the original could remain amongst his own collection of memorabilia.
 
We're not sure how long it will be before the novelty wears off and your teacher or manager busts your ass for rolling in late, but you can try your luck at Springsteen's upcoming appearances and live shows. Find his full itinerary here.
 

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