SAMMY RAE + THE FRIENDS
Sammy Rae + The Friends, The Stone Pony, Asbury Park, NJ. 11/6/24.
Electrifying, inclusive celebration.
Sammy Rae & The Friends brought undeniable energy to their Asbury Park, NJ debut at The Stone Pony on November 6, 2024. From the moment they stepped on stage, it was clear they understood the weight of playing a venue so intertwined with the legacy of Bruce Springsteen, one of their key influences. The band paid homage with a soulful rendition of “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out,” a song that resonated with the crowd and honored Springsteen’s roots in Asbury Park.
Every band member filled the stage — physically and musically — and their presence was immense. Their sound is a unique blend of rock, folk, funk, and jazz, and they seamlessly moved between these styles, creating a richness that filled every corner of the room. The audience felt this fullness, as every instrument and voice contributed to an immersive and electric experience.
Beyond the music, it was their connection with the crowd that made the night special. Sammy Rae & The Friends have cultivated a deeply dedicated fanbase — this show was proof of that dedication. Their community, known for its diversity and especially beloved within the LGBTQ+ space, showed up in full force. This was not just a concert — it was a reunion of friends, all drawn together by a shared love for music and a place where everyone belonged.
Touring for their new album, Something for Everybody, they lived up to the title, delivering a set that gave everyone in the room something to hold onto. Sammy Rae’s commitment to inclusivity was evident as she made the crowd feel like they were part of the family, a key piece of what makes their live shows unforgettable. This debut at the Stone Pony was a celebration of the past, present, and future of music at the Jersey Shore, and a night that won’t soon be forgotten.
Shot and Written by John Matlosz.
