Springsteen photographs

How does an amazing night get even more amazing? Loading dock success. After landing front row at Bruce Springsteen's Dec. 2 concert in Atlanta, I waited by the arena's loading dock.

The dock is an obscure area disturbing close to where I park every day, CNN's disturbingly named "pigeon pit" lot. I got my disposable camera from my car and stood around with a dozen other fans, waiting in the cold to see if Bruce and the band would pass by.

They did, and they didn't disappoint. Although Roy Bittan and Danny Federeci quickly hopped in the vans, Nils Lofgren was the first to come over and sign.

Next out came the Big Man, Clarence Clemons. "What're ya smokin', Clarence?" someone asked. "It's legal," Clarence replied.

Steve Van Zandt followed shortly after Clarence. Steve caused such a commotion that most people (including myself) missed Max Weinberg briefly coming over behind him to sign. I got a chance to ask Steve when his Lost Boys album is coming out. "When I get my own label," he said.

Finally, Bruce himself suddenly appeared in a van, which disappeared down the alley just as quickly. As it turned past, he gave a little wave and I clicked on the disposable. Not a bad way to end the night.