Lineup Announced For 2023 Sounds Of Summer Concert Series In Berkeley

BERKELEY, NJ — Warmer days are just around the corner, and Mayor Carmen Amato has announced the return of the ever-popular Sounds of Summer Concert Series for 2023.

Unless otherwise noted, all concerts are held at Veterans Park, 5025 Bill Zimmerman Jr Way, Bayville.

"I am pleased to announce the return of our popular Sounds of Summer Concert Series for 2023. As usual, our outdoor concerts are free to the public and we are once again partnering with radio station WJRZ, who will provide one of their DJ’s to emcee at each concert,” Amato said.

“Opening night will be Wed., June 28. Beginning at 6 p.m., we will feature long-time Jersey Shore talent,  Rock N' Rhythm, a vocal group with a tight harmonious sound of both traditional Doo-Wop and contemporary styles. Followed by Super TransAm an Arena Anthem band of the 70’s, including chart-topping hits from Queen, Foreigner, Journey and more,” Amato said. “In honor of Independence Day, we will have a fabulous Fireworks display to close the night!” he said.  

Wed. July 19, beginning at 6 p.m., is local talent Jukebox Legends singing all the great songs of the 50’s, 60’s and more. They will be followed by Beginnings - a Chicago Tribute Band, replacing Wanted DOA, as the lead singer unfortunately died of cancer. "Our hearts are with his family during this difficult time," Amato said.

"The look and sound of this band will make you feel like you’re at an actual Bon Jovi concert." Amato said.

Sat., Aug. 12, beginning 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. listen to The Verdict. This exciting reggae band creates a fun and exhilarating blend of the sounds of the Caribbean.

Wed. Aug. 23, beginning at 5 p.m., will be the Annual “Night Out Against Crime and Night of Two Headliners.” Amato stated, “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.”

“At 6 p.m. will feature our first headliner beginning with Atlantic City Headliner Gerard Esposito, celebrating the music from Broadway to Vegas, followed by Garden State Radio, a pop and rock band playing hits from the 80’s, 90’s 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 finale will be on Sat., Sept. 9 for Berkeley Township Community Pride Day. Community Pride Day runs from 2-9 p.m. and recognizes the township’s original Founder’s Day and anniversary of the township.  There will be many vendors, local non-profits and community groups selling food and showcasing other products. The Mayor and Council would like to take this time to thank their generous sponsors, without whom these concerts would not be possible.

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. Please join us by the stage and the 9/11 Memorial.

“The early evening we will begin our musical entertainment. At 6:00 p.m. with Stiletto & the Saxman. This entertaining act delivers a great show singing hits of Doo- Wop, the Rat Pack, Popular Standards and more. At 7:30 p.m., enjoy headliner, followed by The Infernos Band, America’s #1 Show Band and the area’s premier live performance group singing four decades of music,“ Amato said. “At 9 p.m., look up in the sky for our spectacular Fireworks display, to end the summer concert series.” Amato said.

“As always, the cost of the summer entertainment is funded by community and business donations. These donations fund Berkeley Township’s entire Summer Concert Series, our Beach Party, Berkeley Community Pride Day and other summer events. The funds are also raised through the Mayor’s golf outing, our summer program book and outdoor stage advertising,” Amato said. 

Local businesses, civic groups or others interested in sponsoring, can visit the Berkeley Recreation website at www.BTREC.org and look under “concerts” or contact Berkeley Recreation at: 732-269-4456.

The Annual Mayor’s Golf Outing, is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 29. If you’re interested in being a sponsor or playing in the golf outing, you can contact Berkeley Recreation at: 732-269-4456.

Amato added, “As you can see, we have a great mix of talented groups in our summer line up. There’s something for everyone! Please come on out for a great summer of entertainment and don't forget to bring a chair!”

Refreshments are always provided by local non-profit groups and organizations that use these concerts as their fundraisers.