Born in the U.S.A. is the seventh studio album by American singer-songwriter Bruce Springsteen, released on June 4, 1984, by Columbia Records. Frequently cited by critics as one of the greatest albums of all time, it was nominated for a Grammy Award and produced seven top ten singles in the U.S.. The album was recorded with the E Street Band and producers Chuck Plotkin and Jon Landau over the course of several years, while Springsteen was also working on Nebraska. It features tighter songs with a brighter, more pop-influenced sound than Springsteen's previous albums, and prominent synthesizer, while its lyrics explore themes of working-class struggles, disillusionment, patriotism, and personal relationships. The cover features a photograph of Springsteen from behind, taken by Annie Leibovitz, and has since become one of Springsteen's most iconic images.