James Gandolfini Dead: Bruce Springsteen Plays 'Born To Run' As Tribute To 'Sopranos' Actor

James Gandolfini's impact wasn't limited to film and television. Musician Bruce Springsteen paid tribute to the late television star at his show in Coventry, England Thursday night. 

Springsteen and the E Street Band played the entirety of its 1975 classic album "Born To Run," dedicating the performance to Gandolfini. Springsteen called the actor "a great friend." The band's primary guitarist, Steven Van Zandt, had appeared in 'The Sopranos' with Gandolfini and was especially saddened by his passing. 

"I have lost a brother and a best friend. The world has lost one of the greatest actors of all time," the guitarist tweeted. "Maureen and I send our deepest sympathy and love to Deborah, Michael, Lily, and all of Jimmy's family."

Part of the closeness shared by Gandolfini and the band was their mutual birthplace of New Jersey. The actor was born in Westwood and came to fame playing Tony Soprano, a mafia boss also based out of New Jersey. Springsteen was born in Long Branch and the E Street Band was founded in Asbury Park, New Jersey. 

Gandolfini was pronounced dead on Wednesday night following a heart attack during a vacation with his family in Rome. The news caused a pouring out of tributes on Twitter and other social media, with many actors and fans praising his performance in "The Sporanos" as one of the greatest of all time. 

Rock band Journey also honored Gandolfini on its website. The band has become affiliated with the show thanks to the series' final moment when the Soprano family sits at a restaurant while "Don't Stop Believin'" plays in the background.