The iconic first notes of the song "Born to Run" were unveiled to the world for the first time on Aug. 25, 1975. Bruce Springsteen's third studio album — also called Born to Run — hit record store shelves that day. Almost immediately, Springsteen went from being a local favorite in Asbury Park, New Jersey, to an international superstar.  

But why does Bruce resonate so much with Garden Staters? Why is "Born to Run" is such an important album in the context of his career?  

Eileen Chapman is the director of the Bruce Springsteen Archives and Center for American Music at Monmouth University. She's also an Asbury Park city councilmember and a longtime resident of the city. 

Chapman joined WNYC's Michael Hill to put the Boss's career in context.