BERKELEY – Due to an unforeseen tragedy, the township has changed the schedule for the Sounds of Summer 2023 concert series.
Wanted DOA, a Bon Jovi tribute band, is recovering from the March 30 death of lead singer Rich Figurido. They were scheduled to play on July 19. The revised line-up is as follows:
Opening night will be Wednesday, June 28. At 6 p.m., Rock N’ Rhythm will take the stage at Veterans Park. They are described as “a vocal group with a tight harmonious sound of both traditional doo-wop and contemporary styles.” This will be followed by Super TransAm, who play arena anthems from the 70s, including hits from Queen, Foreigner, Journey and more. Since that night is close to July 4, the town will have a fireworks display to finish the night’s festivities.
On Wednesday, July 19, Jukebox Legends will start the show at 6 p.m. at Veterans Park. They perform hits of the 50s, 60s and more. They will be followed by Beginnings, a Chicago tribute band.
On Saturday, August 12, starting at 5 p.m., will be the Annual Beach Party at White Sands Beach in South Seaside Park at 23rd Avenue. From 5 – 8 p.m., reggae band The Verdict will be performing “a fun and exhilarating blend of the sounds of the Caribbean.”
Wednesday, August 23, beginning at 5 p.m. at Veterans Park, will be the annual “Night Out Against Crime and Night of Two Headliners,” Mayor Carmen Amato said. “The Berkeley Township Police Department will be on hand along with our township first aid squads, township fire departments and other public safety agencies to greet residents and show the different types of equipment that they utilize. All of these public safety agencies will have their vehicles and equipment on display, as well. Our DARE Program will also be there with games and prizes for the children to enjoy.”
The first headliner will be at 6 p.m. Gerard Esposito celebrates the music from Broadway to Vegas, followed by Garden State Radio, a pop and rock band playing hits from the 80s, 90s and today. “This band will thrill the audience with the music from Pat Benatar to Katy Perry; from Michael Jackson to Journey and many more,” Amato said.
The final performances will be on Saturday, September 9 for Berkeley Township Community Pride Day. Community Pride Day runs from 2 – 9 p.m. and recognizes the original Founder’s Day and anniversary of the town. There will be a circle of vendors, crafters, and local service groups with tables selling food and showcasing their products and services.
At 5 p.m., the township will recognize the 22nd Anniversary of the September 11th attacks and will host a 9/11 Memorial and Remembrance Ceremony. All are encouraged to join the ceremony at the memorial near the stage.
The first show will be Stiletto & the Saxman at 6 p.m. “This entertaining act delivers a great show singing hits of doo-wop, the Rat Pack, popular standards and more.” At 7:30 p.m., The Infernos Band will come on, described as “America’s #1 Show Band and the area’s premier live performance group singing four decades of music.”
Fireworks will close out the show at 9 p.m.
Refreshments are always sold by local non-profit groups and organizations that use these concerts as their fundraisers.
All of the shows mentioned in this article are free. They are paid for by donations from the business community and by the Mayor’s Golf Outing and advertising – both in the summer program book and around the stage.
Local businesses, civic groups or others interested in sponsoring can visit BTREC.org and look under “concerts” or contact Berkeley Recreation at 732-269-4456. Anyone interested in the September 29 golf outing – either as a sponsor or player – can contact Berkeley Recreation at 732-269-4456.
