The Origins of National Boss Day
In the annals of unusual holidays, October 16th stands out as National Boss Day. This day, celebrating bosses everywhere, was established back in 1958 when Patricia Bays Haroski, an Illinois resident, took the initiative to register ‘National Boss’ Day’ with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. A unique twist to this story is that Patricia’s boss was none other than her own father.
The significance of this day didn’t stop there. It was officially proclaimed by Illinois Governor Otto Kerner in 1962, cementing its place in the calendar. And that’s how October 16th became a day to appreciate and recognize the often underappreciated bosses in our lives.
Bruce Springsteen: The Unwilling ‘Boss’
One would think that ‘The Boss’ title might befit the iconic rock star Bruce Springsteen perfectly, but in reality, he despises the moniker. Bruce Springsteen, a native of Freehold, New Jersey, had earned the title ‘The Boss’ long before he became the music legend we know today. Within his band, he was the undisputed leader, both on and off the stage. Before and after performances, Springsteen was the one who called the shots.
“My recollection was the Boss was a result of paying (band members and crew) at the end of the week,” revealed Springsteen during an interview with Mark Hagen for Mojo in 1999, as found in the “Talk About a Dream” compilation edited by Christopher Phillips and Louis R. Masur. “It was never meant for public dissemination.”
The Unintended Nickname
However, once the ‘Boss’ nickname found its way beyond the close-knit band circle and into the public eye, Springsteen deeply regretted it. This seemingly affectionate title was at odds with Springsteen’s hard-working, everyman ethos.
Springsteen explained, “Well, the thing I have with this ‘Boss’ is funny because it came from people … who work around you,” during a 1980 interview with Dave DiMartino for Creem magazine, also featured in “Talk About a Dream.” He continued, “And then, somebody started to do it on the radio. I hate being called ‘Boss’ (laughs). I just do. Always did from the beginning. I hate bosses. I hate being called the boss.”
On this National Boss Day, it’s clear that Bruce Springsteen, ‘The Boss’ in music, remains unenthusiastic about the title that has been bestowed upon him. Though he may be ‘The Boss’ to some, he will always prefer the simpler, more humble titles that reflect his enduring commitment to the heartland and the working-class spirit.