When people across the country think of New Jersey musicians, thoughts always swing to Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi. But those folks who are really in tune with the Jersey music scene know that Southside Johnny belongs right up there with his more famous fellow Jerseyites.
For the uninitiated, Southside Johnny has been a part of the Jersey music scene since the early 70s. He gained notoriety once he formed his band, The Asbury Jukes, with Steven Van Zandt in the mid-70s. The band played to packed houses including the venerable Jersey venue, The Stone Pony. The band was wildly popular. A friend of mine relayed a story that he used to sneak into the Stone Pony with a fake ID just to hear Southside Johnny and his band. Jon Bon Jovi has acknowledged Southside Johnny as his “reason for singing.”
Recording over twenty live and studio albums and EPs is a testament to the tenacity of the man. Music Madness had the good fortune to catch his latest Connecticut stop at Hartford’s Infinity Music Hall. Many of his fans have been with him since the beginning. You can hear folks reminiscing about old days and old friends seen at gigs year after year. Southside Johnny shows are a homecoming of sorts for many. Old concert tees and even tour jackets adorned with “Asbury Jukes” were everywhere.
To see Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes live is quite the experience. Sadly, I had never seen the band before and was not aware of what I was in for. The energy that each band member brings to the stage adds up to a musical explosion. Each member had their chance to shine in the form of a solo. Add Southside to the mix and you have a powerful night of music. The band played for two hours that seemed like a heartbeat. The audience was energized and the band fed on their energy.
One would not think that Southside Johnny has been performing for the likes of fifty years. His youthful enthusiasm and energy transcends the man’s age. He constantly moves about the stage with the largest of smiles on his face. One can tell he is not jaded by the ups and downs of the industry throughout his career. He loves what he does as do his loyal fans and even newcomers like me!
Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes have only a few live shows scheduled but as covid restrictions lighten up, they will no doubt be booked to play more shows soon. Keep an eye HERE for upcoming dates. If you’ve seen these workhorses play, you’ll be anxious to see them. If you’ve never seen them perform, do yourself the biggest favor you can and see them!!!
