Steven Van Zandt says E Street Band 'had no idea how much pain' Bruce Springsteen was in before tour

Bruce Springsteen's struggle with peptic ulcer disease was a surprise to fans and his bandmates, Steven Van Zandt of the E Street Band revealed.

"I got to tell you the truth, we had no idea how much pain (Bruce Springsteen) was in," Van Zandt told USA TODAY's EntertainThis! at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Friday. "We were just as surprised as everyone else to learn the extent of his illness."

Springsteen and the E Street Band performed three shows at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey and two at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts earlier this year before they postponed their tour until next year as the frontman recovers. "It was remarkable when we found out that he had been in pain for five shows at least, he is just a tough guy," Van Zandt said.

The guitarist added that Springsteen was likely motivated by the crowd to continue for as long as he did. "The adrenaline, I'm sure helps, and the enthusiasm of the audience helps. But many came to me after those shows (and said) they were the best shows they've ever seen," Van Zandt said.

Today, Van Zandt said The Boss "is all good now" and the band plans to " come back stronger than ever in March."

In late September, Springsteen postponed the remainder of his 2023 concerts with the E Street Band to be treated for peptic ulcer disease.

Earlier that month, Springsteen announced he was delaying all of his September shows under the advice of doctors.

In a post to his Instagram on Sept. 27, the legendary rocker shared that while his condition has improved over the past few weeks, doctors said he needs to continue treatment through the end of the year. All postponed dates will be rescheduled for 2024 at their original venues, the statement said.

Bruce Springsteen postpones 2023 tourto treat peptic ulcer disease

“Thanks to all my friends and fans for your good wishes, encouragement, and support. I'm on the mend and can't wait to see you all next year," Springsteen said in the post.

Peptic ulcers are typically characterized by severe abdominal pain and are described as open sores that develop on the inside lining of the stomach and upper portion of the small intestine. The most common cause is a bacterial infection that eats away at the protective lining of the digestive system.

Contributing: Melissa Ruggieri, Jennifer McClellan, Ralphie Aversa

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