Springsteen Supports Marriage Equality

New Jersey native and rock legend Bruce Springsteen has announced his support for marriage equality legislation awaiting a critical vote Thursday in the state senate.

CNN reports that the rocker known as the Boss is urging voters to contact senators who hold the fate of marriage equality in their hands.

"Rock legend Bruce Springsteen say he supports the legislation, which would legalize same-sex marriages in the Garden State," reports CNN.

"On his Web site, the New Jersey born Springsteen says he's 'always spoken out for the rights of same-sex couples,' adding that he urges 'those who support equal treatment for our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters to let their voices be heard now.'"

The full New Jersey senate will vote on marriage equality Thursday, after the bill passed the senate judiciary committee by a narrow vote of 7-6 late Monday night, following seven hours of dramatic testimony from opponents and supporters.

The bill needs 21 votes to pass in the 40-member senate, and the Democratic leadership acknowledges that the measure faces an uphill battle.