This year being the 50th anniversary of the emergence of hip hop, on February 22nd, the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music in association with Blue Hawk Records presents “Hip Hop in the Round,” an evening of conversation and music featuring hip hop artists from Monmouth University and Asbury Park.
Los Lobos has sold millions of records, won prestigious awards and made fans around the world. But perhaps its most lasting impact will be how well its music embodies the idea of America as a cultural melting pot. In it, styles like son jarocho, norteño, Tejano, folk, country, doo-wop, soul, R&B, rock ’n’ roll and punk all come together to create a new sound that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
One of America’s most heralded Irish music ensembles for the last 37 years, Cherish the Ladies has won the hearts of audiences worldwide with their rousing blend of traditional music, captivating vocals, and propulsive step dancing. Under the leadership of Joanie Madden, these extremely gifted women create a moving experience with a blend of virtuoso instrumentals, beautiful vocals, traditional and original arrangements along with stunning step dancing — all presented with extraordinary talent, creativity, and humor.
Douglas Taurel (“Nurse Jackie,” “Blue Bloods”) is the creator and star of the Off-Broadway Award-nominated solo play, “The American Soldier,” based on true events and documentary letters written by veterans and their family members from the American Revolution through current-day Afghanistan. It honors the experiences of veterans and their families and explores the internal struggles they face when returning home from combat. “The American Soldier” has been nominated for the Amnesty International Award for theatre excellence , received 4 stars internationally, and has been featured in The Huffington Post, The Washington Post and Time Out.
In 1988, Cowboy Junkies proved that there was an audience waiting for something quiet, beautiful and reflective. The Trinity Session was like a whisper that cut through the noise — and it was compelling. It stood out in the midst of the flash and bombast that came to define the late 80’s. The now classic recording combined folk, blues and rock in a way that had never been heard before and went on to sell more than a million copies.
A musical tribute celebrating the life & career of the legendary jazz musician, inventor & musical pioneer known as the “father of the electric guitar,” Les Paul. This evening of Jersey Jams will feature an all-Star Band including Layonne Holmes, Tony Perruso, John Pittas, Kevin Bregande, Muddy Shews, Tommy Labella and Jillian Rhys McCoy led by musical director and performer, BOBBY BANDIERA. The evening will feature some of New Jersey’s greatest performers including: SONNY KENN, ANTHONY KRIZAN of the Spin Doctors, REAGAN RICHARDS of Williams Honor, BILLY HECTOR, LENNY KAYE of the Patti Smith Band and JIM BABJAK of the Smithereens.
Formed in 2007 by Billy Bob Thornton and J.D. Andrew, The Boxmasters have recorded an impressive and diverse catalogue of music that touches on their love of a wide array of influences, but most importantly, the rock and roll of the 1960’s. Listening to The Boxmasters, one can hear obvious odes to the Beatles, Byrds and Beach Boys, but also The Mothers of Invention, Kris Kristofferson, John Prine and Big Star. As a touring band, The Boxmasters have cultivated a cult fan base opening for ZZ Top, Steve Miller, and George Thorogood.
Join us for our Performing Arts season opening concert with Willie Nile and opening act James Maddock. The New York Times called Buffalo, NY born Willie Nile “one of the most gifted singer-songwriters to emerge from the New York scene in years.” Uncut Magazine called him “A one-man Clash.” His album Streets Of New York was hailed as “a platter for the ages” by Uncut. Rolling Stone listed The Innocent Ones as one of the “Top Ten Best Under-The-Radar Albums of 2011” and BBC Radio called it “THE rock ‘n’ roll album of the year.” His single from that album, “One Guitar,” was the “Top Pick of the Week” in USA Today.
Dr. Richard Kogan joins us to discuss the life, psyche and music of one of America’s greatest composers during an evening that integrates masterful piano playing, humor and insight into the close links between music, healing and genius. Trained in piano at Juilliard and in psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Kogan is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, Co-Director of the Human Sexuality Program at Weill Cornell Medical Center and Artistic Director of the Music and Medicine program. He also maintains a private practice in New York City.
Join us for a magical evening of music and celebration at the 31st annual holiday concert with Father Alphonse Stevenson and the Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea! Experience the joy and spirit of the holiday season as Father Alphonse Stevenson, his 42-piece Orchestra and talented soloists fill the theater carols and seasonal favorites. This longstanding tradition has delighted audiences for over three decades, and we can’t wait to make this year’s concert even more memorable.
