Bob Santelli, executive director of the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music, was recently a guest on the “All Mixed Up” radio show hosted by Jim Monaghan on 101.5 WDHA-FM.
During the interview, Santelli previewed the upcoming fourth annual American Music Honors 2026, taking place April 18, at Pollak Theatre. This year’s honorees include Dr. Dre, Dionne Warwick, Patti Smith, The E Street Band, and The Doors. The event will also feature a special tribute to The Band. Santelli emphasized the Center’s mission to honor the full spectrum of American music, from rock and soul to punk, hip-hop, and Americana.
The conversation also highlighted Bruce Springsteen’s historic mid-70s performances at the Capitol Theatre during the “Born to Run” era, featuring shows that helped cement both his national reputation and the venue’s legendary status. The Center explores this defining moment in the “Born to Run at 50” exhibit, which runs through July 5, at the Passaic County Arts Center.
Santelli concluded by discussing the Center’s growing programming, including its popular Tuesday Night Record Club, and shared that a grand opening announcement is expected soon for the Center’s new home on Monmouth University’s campus.
Watch the full interview below.