A student who ditched school grabbed national attention when Bruce Springsteen called him on stage.

During a concert in Brisbane, Australia, in February 2017, Bruce Springsteen created an unforgettable moment when he invited 14-year-old Nathan Testa on stage to perform “Growin’ Up” with him. Nathan, holding a sign that read, “Missed school, now in the s***, can I play ‘Growin’ Up’ with you?” caught Springsteen’s attention, and soon found himself living a rock and roll dream. This spontaneous interaction showcased not just the boy’s musical talent, but also Springsteen’s ability to connect with his fans in a deeply personal way.

Springsteen handed Nathan a guitar, asking him if he knew how to play the song. Without hesitation, the young fan not only played but also sang along with Springsteen. What followed was a warm interaction, where Springsteen even gave him advice, saying, “When I was your age, I got my first guitar, and I realized it wasn’t just about how well you played, but how good you looked doing it.” He humorously demonstrated guitar poses, adding a lighthearted tone to the experience. The audience was captivated by both the musical performance and the fun mentorship moment.

This wasn’t Nathan’s first time sharing a stage with Springsteen. He had met the iconic musician years earlier, marking this performance as the second time he stood in the spotlight with The Boss. Springsteen’s generosity with fans is well-documented, and this particular performance reinforced his reputation for delivering magical, once-in-a-lifetime experiences during his concerts. Fans praised the spontaneity and warmth of the moment, adding another layer of charm to Springsteen’s long history of engaging live shows.

The song “Growin’ Up” holds special significance as well. Originally released in 1973 on his debut album Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J., it reflects the rebellious spirit and coming-of-age themes central to much of Springsteen’s early work. Performing it with a young fan provided a fitting reminder of the song’s essence—growing up, finding one’s way, and embracing life’s experiences.

Springsteen, known for his marathon concerts and deep connection with fans, often includes similar moments of fan interaction in his shows. This particular performance added to his legacy of generosity and spontaneity, making the Brisbane concert a standout in his global tour. It demonstrated not just his musical prowess, but his enduring ability to create memorable experiences that resonate with both individuals and audiences at large.

Nathan Testa’s on-stage performance may have started as a schoolboy’s risky move, but it ended in a moment of rock history, solidifying Springsteen’s place not just as a rock legend, but as an artist who brings dreams to life for his fans.