Southside Johnny and The Jukes in Their Native Habitat September 2, 2023 – A Review by Dick Beach

Since 1974, The Stone Pony has been the anchor of the music scene in Asbury Park, NJ.  As noted previously by this author, Bruce, Little Steven and Southside are good friends.  And on this past Saturday Night of Labor Day Weekend, it was, indeed, the center of the music universe as far as the Jersey crowd was concerned.

Among the first things that popped into my head was the memory of years ago, when in college, the 40 voice acapella choir I was in would have to do 3 (sometimes 4) shows a day on tour.  To get going, my choice of breakfast was usually a couple Molson Brador’s and a salami on hard roll.  Others, in the back of the bus were more, well, direct.  Let’s just say that they came out of the bus like shot out of a cannon.

I don’t know what Southside Johnny did, but I would swear that it was the same cannon used in the 70’s by many of my mates.

Damn – big, bold, brash and full of a fire that was fun loving, but serious all at the same time.  While always a wild ride – Southside Johnny and the Jukes seemed on a mission.  In a Hawaiian shirt and shades, all he needed was a half a pack of cigarettes and a former cop car to really be crusin’.

Of course, they did all the usuals -Fever, I don’t want to go home – you know.  Two and a half hours of take no prisoners.  The horns in particular were more crisp and tight than I and constant companion recall.

Not all was fun and light.  Johnny mentioned that the shirt was not planned as some might expect.  When they did a heartfelt rendition of Margaritaville you couldn’t think of a more fitting tribute.  We all sang along, and the entire crowd got into Salt! Salt! Salt!

Among the great things about the outdoor stage at The Pony is that it is right by the boardwalk.  Many patrons choose to hang in chairs and on the grass right there to enjoy the music.  No tickets, no rules like you can’t take your own beverages in.  Just hangin’ on a fantastic summer night, cool and breezy, with a hot band to make it perfect.

Never been to The Stone Pony, make it a point.  Unless you have to see the show, consider the grass.  So many great acts are there all year ‘round that is it tough to miss it.

BTW – Bruce did not show up.