Shows return to Jones Beach Bandshell this summer
David Clark's "All About Joel" show will play at the Jones Beach Bandshell on Aug. 26. Credit: Eric Morgensen Photography
The Jones Beach Bandshell is about to experience a resurgence. After remaining dark for three years, the free concert series on the Jones Beach boardwalk (Field 4) has announced dates for the summer of 2022.
“People on Long Island live for the summer. They go to the beach during the day and hear these great live bands at night by the water,” says co-promoter Guy Brogna of G&R Events. “Some of them come to every show.”
Promoter Bob Blickwede of A Bob Production, adds, “The pandemic has been hard on people financially, therefore these free shows for families are important. Plus, these are bands you’d normally only get to see late at night in a club and we play the shows early enough so everyone can come. This series is a real giveback to the community.”
Although the full schedule isn’t out yet, here are some concerts that are currently booked:
- Desert Highway recreates the music of the Eagles on July 29 at 7 p.m. Opening act: Jill Gioia.
- Freebird pays respect to Lynyrd Skynyrd on July 30 at 7 p.m. Opening act: Ten Ton Mojo.
- Experience the music of Led Zeppelin with Misty Mountain on Aug. 6 at 8 p.m.
- Relive the swagger of Mick Jagger as Streetfighter plays the Rolling Stones catalog on Aug. 12 at 8 p.m.
- Catch Beyond Fab as they tip their hat to The Beatles on Aug. 13 at 8 p.m.
- Don’t miss Half Step’s tribute to the Grateful Dead on Aug. 19 at 8 p.m.
- David Clark will sing the songs of the Piano Man in his "All About Joel" show on Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. Opening act: Otan Vargas.
- Shoot 2 Thrill channels AC/DC on Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. Opening act: Emerald Rising.
“Hanging with all the smiling rock and roll families as the sun goes down and the stars come out, it’s just awesome,” says former WBAB DJ Keith Fingers, who will host some of the concerts. “I’m so stoked to be going back to the beach!”
Seating areas are on a first-come, first-served basis and the shows can draw upward of 2,500 people. Visitors are welcome to bring lawn chairs or blankets. There’s a concession stand next to the bandshell if you crave a snack.
INFO 516-785-1600, parks.ny.gov/parks/jonesbeach
David J. Criblez is a reporter for Newsday's exploreLI, covering entertainment-related events from local music to stand-up comedy to festivals.
