E Street Band’s ‘Born to Run’ Guitarist Dies at 74

Tzruya “Suki” Lahav, an Israeli songwriter and poet, has died at 74. Her family told the Israeli broadcaster i24 News she succumbed after a prolonged illness.

Early ties to Springsteen and the band

Lahav joined Bruce Springsteen’s circle in 1972. She performed violin and backing vocals during the band’s early rise.

She toured with the group through 1974 and 1975 before returning to Israel. Her tenure remains part of the E Street Band’s formative history.

Recordings and the Born to Run era

Her violin opens the intro to the album classic “Jungleland” from the Born to Run sessions. She also sang on “4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)” and “Incident on 57th Street.”

Those contributions helped shape the sound of the era. Fans still point to her lines on the 1973–1975 recordings.

Later career and honors

Back in Israel, Lahav built a career as a lyricist and author. She penned several popular songs and published acclaimed books.

Her cultural work earned major recognition. Awards included the ACUM Lifetime Achievement Award and the Erik Einstein Prize.

Reactions and survivors

Springsteen had not publicly commented as of Thursday afternoon. Several fan accounts and dedicated pages paid tribute to her work.

Some media outlets used headlines such as ‘dies at 74’ when reporting on musicians from that era. Other obituaries referenced a guitarist from Springsteen’s circle.

Filmogaz.com has reached out to Springsteen’s team for comment. Lahav is survived by her partner and three sons.