On August 7th, Sharon Marley delivered a captivating performance at City Winery in New York City, paying homage to the legendary music of her parents, Bob and Rita Marley, as well as showcasing her own artistry. The intimate venue was filled with the soulful sounds of reggae as Sharon performed iconic tracks like “Is This Love,” “One Draw,” “Trench Town” and “No Woman, No Cry.” Each song resonated with the audience, blending nostalgia with the vibrant energy of live music.
In addition to the music, the evening offered a special preview of an upcoming art exhibit titled The Garden That Rita Grew: My Grandma Rita. Curated by filmmaker Donisha Prendergast, the granddaughter of Bob and Rita Marley, the exhibit is a tribute to the strength, resilience, and creativity of Rita Marley. The showcase, powered by Humanity Ova Vanity (HOV), features a collection of photographs and artwork that celebrates Rita Marley’s enduring legacy.
Sharon Marley’s performance was not just a musical journey but a celebration of her family’s influence on reggae music and culture. The preview of The Garden That Rita Grew: My Grandma Rita added a profound layer to the evening, reminding attendees of the powerful legacy of the Marley family, not only in music but in the arts as well.
City Winery proved to be the perfect setting for this heartfelt tribute, where music and art intertwined to honor the past while inspiring future generations. The event left attendees eagerly anticipating the full unveiling of the exhibit, which promises to be a poignant homage to one of reggaeâs most influential matriarchs.
On Sunday, August 4th, the Coney Island Amphitheater hosted Gorillafest, a free music festival hosted by Coney Islandâs own rapper NEMS, captivated thousands of fans. Part of the City Parks Foundation’s SummerStage series, this event was a tribute to the vibrant local culture, bringing together an eclectic mix of artists for a day of unforgettable performances.
Nems
NEMS, renowned for his catchphrases “Don’t Ever Disrespect Me!” and “Bing Bong!”, hosted the festival with charisma and flair. Signed to Goliath Records by Paul Rosenberg, NEMS has proven himself to be more than an internet sensation, showcasing his talents as a formidable rapper and an engaging host.
Tony Touch
The festival kicked off with a dynamic DJ set by the legendary Tony Touch, setting an energetic tone for the day. Following Tony Touch, the podcast “Outside with Gorilla Nems” took the stage, featuring NEMS alongside Pas, Six the Don, Hubert Ramos, and Christina Boykin. Their lively 20-minute session, filled with humor and candid conversation, entertained the audience and provided a glimpse into NEMSâs larger-than-life personality.
Statik Selektah
Next, DJ Statik Selektah took over, delivering an electrifying set and bringing out special guests Termanology and rising female rapper Billy B, who both delivered standout performances. DJ Drewski then kept the momentum going, thrilling the crowd with appearances by Consequence, Juelz Santana, and Grafh.
Nems
As the evening progressed, Scram Jones stepped up as the final DJ of the night, his set building anticipation for the headline act. Scram Jonesâs performance set the perfect stage for NEMS, who performed several of his hits, including the viral anthem “Bing Bong.” The crowd roared with excitement as NEMS delivered a high-energy set, demonstrating why he is a beloved figure in the local music scene.
Pharoahe Monch
Throughout the night, an impressive lineup of hip-hop talent took the stage, each adding their unique touch to the festival. Capone, Cory Gunz, Ron Browz, Justina Valentine, Masta Ace, Smif-N-Wessun, and Pharoahe Monch all made appearances, keeping the audience engaged and energized.
Bun B
The highlight of the night was a surprise performance by Bun B, who brought his southern rap style to the New York crowd, adding an unexpected and thrilling twist to the festival. The grand finale came with the appearance of the legendary Ghostface Killah. As the headliner, Ghostface delivered a powerful and captivating performance, closing out Gorillafest on a high note
Ghostface Killah
Gorillafest was more than just a music festival; it was a celebration of community, culture, and the enduring spirit of Coney Island. Thanks to NEMS, the City Parks Foundation, and SummerStage, fans were treated to an incredible day of free entertainment and iconic performances, cementing Gorillafest as a must-attend event in the heart of Brooklyn.
On July 30th, The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island, hosted a special night as Jerry Harrison and Adrian Belew brought their “Remain in Light” tour to town. Both were key members of the band Talking Heads, and they delivered a performance that mixed classic hits with fresh energy, thrilling the audience.
Jerry Harrison is best known as the keyboardist and guitarist of Talking Heads. Before joining them in 1977, he was part of The Modern Lovers. His work on the “Remain in Light” album in 1980 helped make him a rock legend. After Talking Heads, he produced music for bands like Live and No Doubt.
Adrian Belew is a talented guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He gained fame for his guitar work with Frank Zappa, David Bowie, and Talking Heads. His unique guitar style was a big part of the “Remain in Light” sessions. Belew also had a successful solo career and was a member of King Crimson, making him one of the most influential guitarists of his time
The show kicked off with a standout performance by Cool, Cool, Cool, who not only served as the opening act but also as the backing band for Harrison and Belew. Their set was a blend of original songs and covers that had the audience buzzing. Highlights included their original hit “Never Noticed,” a vibrant rendition of Little Dragon’s “Hold On,” and energetic takes on The Pretenders’ “Brass in Pocket” and Charlotte Gainsbourgâs “Sylvia Says.” Their diverse set perfectly set the stage for the main event.
The concert at The Paramount was a showcase of Harrison and Belew’s skills. The setlist included Talking Heads classics, making for an unforgettable night. They started with “Psycho Killer,” immediately grabbing the audience’s attention. Harrison and Belew’s chemistry was clear as they played, showing their experience in every note.
“Crosseyed and Painless” and “Houses in Motion” brought the crowd back to the ’80s, with Belew’s guitar adding excitement to the songs. The energy stayed high with “Cities” and “Life During Wartime,” getting the crowd dancing. “The Great Curve” was the centerpiece, with Harrison’s keyboards and Belew’s guitar solos creating a mesmerizing experience. “Once in a Lifetime” was a crowd favorite, with everyone singing along.
“Born Under Punches (The Heat Goes On)” and “Slippery People” kept the momentum going, showing off the band’s tight performance. “I Zimbra,” with its complex rhythms and energy, was another highlight. The night ended with a powerful version of “Take Me to the River,” leaving the audience amazed. As the final notes faded, it was clear that Harrison and Belew had honored the legacy of Talking Heads while bringing it to a new generation.
The “Remain in Light” tour shows the lasting appeal of Talking Heads’ music and the incredible talent of Jerry Harrison and Adrian Belew. Their performance at The Paramount was more than a concert; it was a celebration of a musical legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
Cool Cool Cool Setlist: Never Noticed, Hold On, Made Ya Look, Brass in Pocket, Sylvia Says
Harrison & Belew Setlist: Psycho Killer, Crosseyed and Painless, Houses in Motion, I Zimbra, Bron Under Punches, Cities, Rev It Up, Slippery People, Thela Hun Ginjeet, Life During Wartime, Once in a Lifetime, Take Me To the River, Drugs, The Great Curve
On Sunday, July 28, The Liverpool Shuffle made history with their free concert, “Beatles on the Balcony,” at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF). It was a landmark event, being the first-ever concert held on the Hall of Fame’s balcony. The event was a resounding success, drawing in fans of all ages and celebrating the timeless music of The Beatles.
LIMEHOF Chairman Ernie Canadeo shared his excitement about the event, noting the Beatles’ significant connections to Long Island. “The Beatles have multiple ties to Long Island, from their concerts at Forest Hills Tennis Stadium (1964) and Shea Stadium (1966), to John Lennon’s residency in Cold Spring Harbor in 1979, Paul McCartney’s current home in the Hamptons, and Paul and Ringo’s continued performances at venues across Long Island. We are excited that the first concert held on our balcony follows in the tradition of the Beatles’ legendary last live concert for the ‘Let It Be’ sessions, held on the rooftop of Apple Corps.”
Ernie Canadeo
The Liverpool Shuffle, a band with a rich history of its own, consists of Joe Refano (vocals, guitars, bass), Jamie Bateman (vocals, guitars), Brian James (vocals, drums), Andrew Lubman (vocals, bass, keyboards), and Dave Clark (vocals, bass) when they expand to a five-man group. Formed in 2003 by Joe Refano, the band has seen several reformations in 2008, 2014, and 2021. Over the years, many talented musicians have been part of The Liverpool Shuffle’s journey.
The current lineup brings together a wealth of experience and unique connections to The Beatles. Joe Refano, who saw The Beatles at Shea Stadium in August 1966, has toured with Peter Noone and Herman’s Hermits, performed with Micky Dolenz of the Monkees, and served as musical director for British Invasion icon Billy J. Kramer. Andrew Lubman, a Berklee College of Music graduate who received his diploma from Sir George Martin, has performed with Tony Kishman’s Paul McCartney show and Wondersous Stories. Jamie Bateman, with family roots in Liverpool and a fifth cousin to Ringo Starr, has subbed as George Harrison with Strawberry Fields. Brian James has provided his distinctive drumming and vocals for numerous Beatles tribute bands over the years.
The LIMEHOF concert, which lasted two hours, was a comprehensive journey through The Beatles’ career. The setlist included early hits like “All My Loving,” “Roll Over Beethoven,” and “Rock and Roll Music.” As the evening progressed, the band delved into later classics such as “In My Life,” “Lady Madonna,” and “Day Tripper.” The show culminated with an energetic finale featuring “Strawberry Fields,” “Penny Lane,” “Get Back,” “Revolution,” and an electrifying rendition of “I Saw Her Standing There.”
The event’s success has set a promising precedent for future outdoor concerts at LIMEHOF. Fans are already looking forward to more balcony performances, hoping to experience the magic of live music in such a unique and historic setting.
Setlist: All My Lovin, Boys, Roll Over Beethoven, Do You Want to Know a Secret, From Me To You, She’s A Woman, I Feel Fine, Please Please Me, I Want to Hold Your Hand, She Loves You, Hard Days Night, Happy Just to Dance With You, Can’t Buy Me Love, Help!, In My Life, Lady Madonna, We Can Work It Out, Act Naturally, Day Tripper, Strawberry Fields, Penny Lane, Sgt Pepper/Little Help, Get Back, One After 909, Revolution, Back in the USSR, Hey Jude, I Saw Her Standing There
The last day of the 2024 Great South Bay Music Festival on July 21 at Shorefront Park was a huge success. With an incredible lineup of musicians from different genres, fans enjoyed a day filled with amazing performances and unforgettable moments.
Jon Anderson
Headlining the main stage was the iconic Jon Anderson, the distinguished voice of Yes. Anderson’s set, supported by The Band Geeks, was a journey through some of Yes’s most beloved songs. The audience was treated to masterful renditions of “Yours Is No Disgrace,” “Heart of the Sunrise,” “Close to the Edge,” “I’ve Seen All Good People,” “Starship Trooper,” and the grand finale, “Roundabout.” Anderson’s ethereal vocals, combined with the precise musicianship of The Band Geeks, created an electrifying atmosphere that resonated with fans of all ages.
Justin Hayward
Preceding Anderson was Justin Hayward from the Moody Blues, whose performance included timeless classics like “The Voice,” “Your Wildest Dreams,” “Nights in White Satin,” and concluded with “I Know You’re Out There Somewhere.” Julie Ragins, a key member of Hayward’s band and a former Moody Blues member, added depth and harmony to the performance, bringing the essence of the Moody Blues to life.
Martin Barre
Martin Barre, the legendary guitarist from Jethro Tull, also graced the main stage, bringing his unique style and energy. Barre’s band, featuring Dan Crisp on vocals, Alan Thomson on bass, and Terl Bryant on drums, delivered a powerful set that delighted Jethro Tull fans.
Start Making Sense
The main stage festivities also included dynamic performances from Start Making Sense, a Talking Heads cover band, and Miles to Dayton, setting the tone for an eclectic and engaging day of music at the 2024 Great South Bay Music Festival.
Bandshell – Five Towns College Stage
Over at the Bandshell – Five Towns College Stage, the day kicked off with Bleeding Egos, followed by The OM-EN. Rob Europe brought his unique sound to the stage, captivating the audience with his soulful tunes. The day on this stage concluded with a riveting performance by the Stanton Anderson Band, leaving the crowd wanting more
Jambalaya Stage
The Jambalaya Stage offered a diverse lineup, beginning with Original Gossip Band. Paris Ray followed, enchanting the audience with her melodic voice. Wonderous Stories and Electrix continued the musical journey, each adding their distinct flair. The day on this stage ended on a high note with Funkin’ A, whose funky beats had everyone dancing.
Jon Anderson Setlist: Yours Is No Disgrace, Heart of the Sunrise, Close to the Edge, And You and I, I’ve Seen All Good People, Shine On, Starship Trooper, Roundabout
Justin Hayward Setlist: The Voice, Your Wildest Dreams, Question, Nights in White Satin, I Know You’re Out There Somewhere
The second day of the Great South Bay Music Festival on Friday, July 19, was a vibrant celebration of reggae music, transforming Shorefront Park into a haven of laid-back rhythms and positive vibes. The day featured an eclectic mix of reggae, ska, and rock, drawing fans from all over Long Island and beyond.
Main Stage Highlights
Pepper: Formed in 1997 in Hawaii, Pepper has been a staple in the reggae rock scene for over two decades, known for their infectious energy and dynamic sound. They kicked off their set with the energetic “Bring Me Along,” followed by “Rent,” keeping the energy high. Their set also included crowd favorites like “Stone Love” and “Brand New Day,” showcasing their unique blend of reggae and rock. They closed their performance with the powerful “Warning,” from their 2019 album Local Motion.
Streetlight Manifesto: Before Pepper took the stage, Streetlight Manifesto delivered a memorable performance, opening with “Watch It Crash.” They followed with “A Better Place, A Better Time,” captivating the audience with their energy. The band wrapped up their set with “Here’s to Life,” leaving a lasting impression with their blend of ska and punk.
Bandshell – Five Town College Stage
Badfish and Tropidelic: Both bands added to the day’s vibrant atmosphere. Badfish, known for their tribute to Sublime, and Tropidelic, with their funky, high-energy style, kept the crowd dancing and singing along throughout their sets.
The Bandshell – Five Town College Stage featured a diverse lineup of bands that kept the reggae vibes flowing all day long.
Samsara kicked off the performances, followed by the smooth sounds of Aqua Cherry. Nonstop to Cairo brought their high-energy mix of ska and hip-hop, keeping the crowd on their feet. Oogee Wawa closed out the stage with their unique blend of reggae, rock, and hip-hop, creating a perfect end to the dayâs performances.
Jambalaya Stage
The Jambalaya Stage was a hub of reggae and rock fusion, showcasing both local and up-and-coming talent.
IRIEspect started the day with their authentic reggae sound, followed by the Chris Ruben Band, who brought a mix of rock and reggae influences. Enrose and Roots Foundation continued the reggae vibes, with Roots Foundation delivering a standout performance. Formed in 2008 by bassist Corey Browd, this Long Island-based band pays homage to the roots style of reggae, drawing inspiration from legends like Bob Marley, Burning Spear, Steel Pulse, and Peter Tosh. The day on this stage concluded with the dynamic sounds of Half Breeds.
A Day of Unity and Celebration
The reggae-themed day at the Great South Bay Music Festival was a testament to the unifying power of music. With a lineup that honored the roots of reggae while embracing its modern evolutions, festival-goers experienced a day of peace, love, and rhythmic bliss. As the sun set over Shorefront Park, the sounds of reggae continued to echo, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating the next day of this incredible festival.
Pepper Setlist: Bring Me Along. Rent, Things That You Love, Nice Time, Stormtrooper, Your Face, B.O.O.T., Tradewinds, Too Much, Freeze, Drum Solo, Stone Love, Seven Weeks, Crazy Love, Green Hell, Brand New Day, No Control, Warning
Streetlight Manifesto Setlist: Watch it Crash, A Moment of Silence, A Moment of Violence, A Better Place, a Better Time, Intro: This Is a Call to Arms, Here’s to Life
Badfish Setlist: Smoke Two Joints, Caress Me Down, Garden Grove, We’re Only Gonna Die, Waiting for My Ruca, Feel Like That, Get Ready, Badfish, Doin’ Time, My Girl, Pawn Shop, Changes, Regulate, Santeria, The Final Countdown, Date Rape, What I Got
The 2024 Great South Bay Music Festival kicked off its first day with a spectacular lineup. Held at Shorefront Park in Patchogue, the festival’s opening nightset the stage for an unforgettable weekend of music. An eclectic night of music featured a blend of blues, rock, and eclectic performances,
The headliner for the night, Joe Bonamassa, delivered a powerhouse performance. Known for his virtuosic guitar skills and soulful voice, Bonamassa brought his signature blues-rock sound to the festival. He captivated fans with hits like “Twenty-Four Hour Blue” and “I Want to Shout About It.” Moreover, his set was a testament to why he remains one of the most revered guitarists in the world, as his performance was a fitting climax to an evening of exceptional music.
Stellar Supporting Acts
However, before Bonamassa took the stage, the crowd was treated to a series of impressive performances. Jim Messina, a founding member of Buffalo Springfield and Poco, brought a blend of folk, rock, and countr. His classic hits and engaging stage presence were a perfect warm-up for the night’s main act and resonated with the audience.
In like manner, Brandon “Taz” Niederauer, the teenage guitar prodigy who has been wowing audiences nationwide, delivered an electrifying performance. Youthful energy and remarkable talent on full display, Niederauer shredded through a setlist that showcased his impressive range and skill.
Additionally, local favorite Kerry Kearney Band brought their unique style of blues to the stage, with Kearney’s slide guitar work and the band’s tight, dynamic sound setting the tone for the evening. Their performance was a hit with the crowd, many of whom are long-time fans of the band.
Five Towns College Stage Highlights
Likewise, the second stage at the Great South Bay Music Festival, known as the Bandshell – Five Towns College Stage, offered a diverse lineup that added to the festival’s eclectic vibe. Chloe Halpin opened the stage with her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, captivating the audience with her intimate performance.
Lex Grey and The Urban Pioneers followed, bringing a mix of blues, rock, and Americana that was both raw and powerful. Grey’s commanding presence and the band’s gritty sound were a standout of the night.
MJT closed out the second stage with a high-energy set that had the crowd dancing and enjoying the music. Their blend of rock, funk, and jazz was a perfect ending to the night’s performances on the Bandshell stage.
Jim Messina Setlist: House at Pooh Corner, Your Mama Don’t Dance, New and Different Way, Peace of Mind, Be Free, Angry Eyes
Brooklyn Paramount was electric on Saturday, July 13, as NOFX delivered a powerful performance on the second of their three-night stand, part of their much-anticipated final tour.
These shows were the only US dates on their tour, making them a unique and intimate experience compared to the rest of the Punk in Drublic festival.
The legendary punk rock band kicked off their worldwide farewell tour on April 22, 2023, in Austin, TX. The tour spans forty cities across the globe, including stops in Australia in January, Europe in May and June, and North America from April to October 2024.
Each night, NOFX performs 40 songs, featuring full albums and rare tracks, ensuring no setlist is ever repeated. This meticulous planning guarantees a unique experience for every show, culminating in their final performance in Los Angeles on October 6, 2024.
Frontman Fat Mike, alongside bandmates Eric Melvin, Erik Sandin, and El Hefe, poured their hearts into the Brooklyn Paramount show. The setlist on July 13 was a blend of tracks from at least 12 different albums, with a heavy focus on Wolves in Wolves’ Clothing and Pump Up the Valuum. The night began with the energetic “60%,” and included fan favorites like “Murder the Government,” “Bob,” “Whatâs the Matter with Parents Today,” “The Longest Line,” and “Drugs Are Good.” The encore was a high-energy conclusion featuring “Bottle to the Ground” and the iconic “Kill All the White Man.”
Opening the night was Fat Mike’s new project, Codefendants, whose set included “Brutiful,” “Prison Camp,” “Fast Ones,” and “Sell Me Youth.” Following them was Murphy’s Law, a staple of the New York hardcore punk scene since 1982. Despite numerous lineup changes, vocalist Jimmy Drescher remains the heart of the band. Their energetic set included “Quest for Herb,” “Crucial Bar-B-Q,” “Cavity Creeps,” and “Someone’s Gonna Get Their Head Kicked in Tonight.”
Formed in 1983 in Los Angeles, NOFX has been a cornerstone of the punk rock scene for over four decades. Their rebellious spirit and distinctive sound have influenced countless bands and garnered a dedicated global fanbase. Despite the ups and downs of the music industry, NOFX has maintained their independence, releasing music through their own label, Fat Wreck Chords.
Fat Mike, the band’s charismatic and often controversial frontman, has been vocal about his reasons for ending NOFX. “Because I don’t enjoy it like I used to,” he told Louder in December 2022. “And if I don’t get loaded, I really don’t want to do it. I don’t need to be onstage hearing people applaud and dance. I don’t need that. Some people are addicted to that.”
He added, “I’ve started doing stand-up comedy and I like that way better, in front of 30 people. And writing music. I’ve been writing [string] quartets, which I really enjoy, and writing for other people. I have another band called the Codefendants, which is really exciting to me.”
As the final tour progresses, fans worldwide are cherishing these last moments with NOFX. The Brooklyn Paramount shows are a testament to the band’s enduring legacy and their unwavering connection with their audience. For those in attendance on July 13, it was a night of nostalgia, high energy, and a bittersweet farewell to one of punk rock’s most influential bands.
Codefendants Setlist: Brutifal, Defcons, Abscessed, Suicide by Pigs, Disaster Scenes, Prison Camp, Fast Ones, Counting Back From 13, Sell Me Youth
NOFX Setlist: 60%, Seeing Double at the Triple Rock, Murder the Government, Bob, Pharmacist’s Daughter, 72 Hookers, All Outta Angst, Louise, The Man I Killed, Leaving Jesusland, What’s the Matter With Parents Today, 100 Times Fuckeder, The Marxist Brothers, Fuck the Kids, Juice Head, Hobophobic, Monosyllabic Girls, I’m Telling Tim, Instant Crassic, Can’t Get the Stink Out, The Longest Line, What Now My Love, I Don’t Like Me Anymore, Drugs Are Good, Benny Got Blowed Up, Radio, Shut Up Already, Green Corn, All My Friends In New York, The Seperation of Church and Skate
Encore: Riff Raff, Dinosaurs Will Die, Herojuana, Bottles to the Ground, Kill all the White Man
On Sunday, July 7, the Coney Island Amphitheater was alive with the sounds of reggae and dancehall music as Federation Sound celebrated their 25th anniversary.
Founded in 1999 in Brooklyn by Max Glazer, Kenny Meez, and Cipha Sounds, Federation Sound has become a key player in the reggae scene. They are famous for their energetic shows and unique blend of classic reggae and modern dancehall.
Federation Sound
The night started with performances by Red Fox & Screechy Dan, who got the crowd moving with their lively set. Following them, Tifa kept the energy high with her hit songs and engaging performance. Mr. Lexx continued the party, showing why he remains a favorite in dancehall music.
Red Fox & Screechy Dan
Tanto Metro & Devonte were a crowd favorite, delivering hit after hit and getting everyone to sing along. Iotosh, a newer artist in the reggae world, impressed the audience with his fresh sound, mixing traditional reggae with modern vibes.
Tanto Metro & Devonte
A special guest performance by the legendary Johnny Osbourne was a highlight of the night. He wowed the crowd with his classic hits “Buddy Bye” and “Ice Cream Love,” bringing a wave of nostalgia and joy.
Johnny Osbourne
The headliners of the night, Shaggy and Sister Nancy, delivered unforgettable performances. Shaggy had the crowd dancing and singing along to his hits “Boombastic,” “Angel,” “It Wasn’t Me,” and more. Sister Nancy closed the night with her iconic songs “Bam Bam” and “One Two,” leaving the audience in awe of her powerful presence
Shaggy
In between some of the acts, Federation Sound kept the energy high with their DJ sets, showcasing their skill in mixing and keeping the crowd entertained.
Sister Nancy
Federation Soundâs 25th-anniversary show was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of reggae and dancehall culture. Fans and artists came together to honor Federation Soundâs impact on the music world, from their popular mixtapes to their influential radio shows and online streams.
On Thursday, June 27, the Northwell at Jones Beach Theater celebrated its 72nd anniversary with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil the latest renovations in a multimillion-dollar project. The event marked a significant milestone for the historic venue, originally constructed in the 1950s, and highlighted its ongoing evolution to enhance the concert-going experience.
George Gorman, Regional Director of New York State Parks, welcomed the gathered crowd, acknowledging the hard work of the staff, Live Nation, and New York State Parks in bringing the project to fruition. He emphasized the theater’s rich history and the importance of these renovations in preserving its legacy. Gorman extended special thanks to New York State Senator Kevin Thomas, Governor Kathy Hochul, and other key supporters for their contributions, which were crucial in making the renovations possible.
During the ceremony, Tom See, Live Nation’s President of Venue Nation, spoke enthusiastically about the enhancements made to the theater. “The reopening of Jones Beach Theater is the start of the next chapter in the venue’s history,” he said. “As part of the venue’s renovation, you’ll just see it when you step on up. Check out this amazing brand new entry. A state-of-the-art entry of Instagrammable moments and you’ll walk right into a community plaza.”
The new community plaza, approximately the size of a football field, represents a significant improvement. “We never had that location at Jones Beach where the community could be able to hang out,” See explained. “We put them right into a concourse and it had lines and a difficult way to maneuver. But now this open concourse provides the community a place to come in, enjoy food and beverages before they go in and see the show.”
The renovations also include a reimagined premium experience, offering 280-degree views of Zachs Bay. To ensure fans enjoy as much of the show as possible and spend less time in lines, the venue has added more than 30% more food and beverage outlets. “So you can hang out, enjoy the show, and spend time with family,” See noted. “But most importantly, we added 20% more fresh food options.”
The ceremony concluded with the official ribbon-cutting, symbolizing the start of the next chapter for Northwell Jones Beach Theater. Attendees were invited to explore the new features and enjoy the event, setting the stage for many more memorable performances at this iconic venue.
