Sam Fender’s “The Borders” (2019) is an emotionally charged rock song about two boyhood friends who grow apart amid difficult family lives. With Springsteen-esque intensity, Fender sings about escaping cycles of violence and the bittersweet memories of youth (“we were like brothers”). “The Borders” was hailed by critics as one of Fender’s best-written songs, showcasing his knack for storytelling. Although not a big chart hit, it’s beloved by fans and often cited as an example of Fender’s Springsteen influence and his compassionate eye for detail in songwriting.