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5th Annual Big Man’s Birthday Bash: Saturday January 7th 2017 by Calvin Schwartz(0) 5th Annual Big Man’s Birthday Bash: Saturday January 7th 2017
It’s my essential basic blink of an eye the day before New Years’ Eve as I reminisce the evolution of Annual Big Man’s Birthday Bash and other matters of special sentimentality. Our NJ Discover crew/family has been at all four prior Bash’s. I remember the first one in Asbury Park when we magically worked the red carpet interviewing the musicians and celebs, so loyal and devoted to Clarence, his memory and cultural impact. The void of loss has been dramatic and enduring. How special it has been to remember the Big Man in this way, honoring his birthday and bringing the essence of Jersey talent together for one rocking electric eclectic night of music. It has become that winter highlight of revelry and music along the Jersey shore; something we all look forward to and thank the Clemons’ Family and Big Road Productions for bringing it all together. Yes, it seems only in Jersey along the shore at Bar A; a cacophony of Jersey iconic symbols. This year’s musical lineup is nirvana. Enough said. See you there on January 7th. Happy Birthday Big Man!! Calvin Schwartz December 30th 2016 (probably the last time I write 2016)
THE 5th ANNUAL BIG MAN’S BIRTHDAY BASH is one week away! – January 7th at Bar A
https://big-road.ticketleap. UPDATES! Now joining the line-up: MANNY CABO (from NBC’s “The Voice”) FRANKE PREVITE (writer, “Dirty Dancing” soundtrack hit songs) LISA SHERMAN BIG BANG BABY (Shore Legends) Featured performers with THE BIG RoaD ALL-STAR BAND for the finale set: GARY U.S. BONDS THE BIG RoaD ALL-STAR BAND will feature: MARK LEIMBACH (Gary U.S. Bonds) Note: The “Rock of Ages” Band (previously announced) will no longer be performing.
THE 5th ANNUAL BIG MAN’S BIRTHDAY BASH AT BAR ANTICIPATION ON JANUARY 7, 2017 Lake Como, NJ – On January 7, 2017, the Jersey Shore celebrates the birthday of This year’s 5th Anniversary show, which runs all day and night, will feature headliners: The show, which kicks off at 2:00 p.m. (full line-up below) and is expected to run until 1:00 a.m., will also feature guest jams and artist collaborations that are a long-time tradition at the Shore. Nick Clemons states, “My father always taught me to ‘give back’ and remember the less fortunate. I try to do that and CFC Loud N Clear and TOPAC do great work at a time that New Jersey still has its worst heroin epidemic ever.” This is the 5th year that Clemons and his team have produced the Birthday Bash. Co-producer/Terry Camp of BIG RoaD is an attorney and long-time member of the Jersey Shore music community. He recalled, “When Clarence passed, Wonder Bar in Asbury Park hosted the Sensational Soul Cruisers and The Nick Clemons Band for a memorial show in July 2011. Bruce was kind enough to join us that epic night and we’ve been building on it since – selling out Wonder Bar in December 2012, packing Martell’s in Point Pleasant January 2014, and the last two years at Bar Anticipation. The show gets bigger and bigger every year – and for the 5th Annual Bash, we’ve secured this incredible line-up.” BIG RoaD’s Jesse Warren lost his brother, Scott Warren, to a heroin overdose on March 26th, 2015. Warren states, “The heroin addiction crisis in Monmouth and Ocean Counties has been building for many years and has, unfortunately, received national note. We are all responsible to keep the issue front and center in our communities.” Bash details and frequent updates are at the Facebook Event page: https://www.facebook.com/ Doors open at 1:00 p.m. and live music begins at 2:00 p.m. The show is expected to end by 1:00 a.m. Tickets are $45 Advance and $60 Day of Show. They may be purchased on line at: https:// The BIG RoaD All-Star Band About CFC Loud N Clear About TOPAC About NCB Productions About BIG RoaD
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WHAT A WAY TO START 2016: 4th Annual BIG MAN’S Birthday Bash January 9th 2016 At Bar Anticipation bY Calvin Schwartz(0) WHAT A WAY TO START 2016: 4th Annual BIG MAN’S Birthday Bash January 9th 2016 At Bar Anticipation bY Calvin Schwartz It’s December 23rd, two days before Christmas and a week before New Years. I’m always smitten with sentimentality this time of year; where did the time go; how can all those special people in my life be gone. Sometimes I clench my fists tight trying to hold a special moment or being angry that I didn’t hold on to moments when special people in my life were here with me. Age old thoughts I know. Four years ago, I happened upon Nick Clemons, Terry Camp and Jesse Warren and being the sentimentalist, I clenched my fist and got involved in the celebration of the Big Man, Clarence Clemons. So this is the 4th Annual Bash. What fascinates and keeps me coming back every year, is the unique palpable energy, love and spirit in the middle of central Jersey expressed in hours of music by some of the most talented people on the planet. And I marvel at all the people assembled sharing this. I’m thinking now of the folk song, ‘Simple Gifts’ played at President Obama’s first Inauguration. Also Bruce Springsteen and Pete Seeger singing ‘This Land is Your Land’ at the Lincoln Memorial at the Inauguration. I think it a wondrous simple gift to be part of this musical celebration for an iconic Jerseyan, musician and legend, Clarence Clemons. All of which means YOU should be there on January 9th. MERRY HAPPY HEALTHY Calvin Schwartz 12-23-15 4:44PM
Facebook EVENT PAGE : https://www.facebook.com/events/1515446588782400/permalink/1530684587258600/
THIS JUST IN (12-23-15 11:11pm) UPDATES TO LINE-UP: Add Rock ‘Famer and former Blackheart with Joan Jett, Ricky Byrd. Add: Red Bank Rocker lead vocal guy, the seriously soulful, JT Bowen Add: Mike Rocket, who’s song rocked, “Gotta Get to the Jersey Shore.” AND AND “Ya never know what more will come!!!” AND Tix now discounted 20% for BIG RoaD’s Christmas sale! So go get ’em and join the Annual Bash on January 9th at Bar A!!!
THE 4th ANNUAL BIG MAN’S BIRTHDAY BASH AT BAR ANTICIPATION ON JANUARY 9, 2016 This year’s show, which runs all day and night, will feature: • The Matt O’Ree Band – O’Ree is a long-time New Jersey, blues rock guitar legend who has recently become a member of Bon Jovi. • The Del-Lords – re-united, New York City garage/roots rock legends featuring frontman, Scott Kempner, with a new record and tour coming in early 2016 • Slim Chance and the Gamblers – New Jersey blues stalwarts celebrating the release of their new record at the show • The BIG RoaD All Star Band – an eleven-piece BIG band of Shore All-Star musicians fronting regional stars to include JoBonanno, Jillian Rhys McCoy, Eddie Testa, Remember Jones, Pat Roddy, Joe Cartwright and more • The Nick Clemons Band – blues/funk rock with frontman, Nick Clemons a.k.a. Clarence Clemons III, oldest son of the late Big Man • The show, which kicks off at 2:30 p.m. and is expected to run until 12:30 a.m. will also feature guest jams and collaborations that are a long-time tradition on the Shore. Nick Clemons states, “My father always taught me to ‘give back’ and remember the less fortunate. I try to do that and CFC Loud N Clear does great work at a time that New Jersey has its worst heroin epidemic ever.” This is the fourth year for a Big Man Birthday Bash charitable event. The show is produced by BIG RoaD, the production entity of Terry Camp and Jesse Warren. Camp recalls, “When Clarence passed, Wonder Bar in Asbury Park hosted the Sensational Soul Cruisers and The Nick Clemons Band for a memorial show in July 2011. Bruce [Springsteen] was kind enough to join us that epic night and we’ve been building on it since – selling out Wonder Bar in December 2012, packing Martell’s in Point Pleasant January 2014, and selling out Bar Anticipation last January. The show gets bigger and bigger every year.” He added, “We’re thrilled to be returning to Bar Anticipation working with Tom Jannarone and his Bar Anticipation team. That place is cream of the crop for a diverse and quality entertainment experience.” BIG RoaD’s Jesse Warren lost his brother, Scott Warren, to a heroin overdose on March 26th, 2015. Warren states, “The heroin addiction crisis in Monmouth and Ocean Counties has been building for many years and has, unfortunately, received national note. Last year, it hit home – my home. We are all responsible to keep the issue front and center in our communities – and we’re glad to again be partnered up with CFC Loud N Clear.” Bash details and frequent updates are at the Facebook Event page: http://
Full line-up to date and guests are added regularly:
(Day Set) (Dinner and Gift Raffle) (Night Set) And Very Special Guests throughout including: Jillian Rhys Mccoy
About The Del-Lords
About The Matt O’Ree Band New Jersey’s best kept secret has made some big noise in the past year. Prior to 2015, The Matt O’ Ree band did what most area bands do. They played their shows, developed their sound, released their records and very quietly built a loyal, local fan base in the process. Beyond incredible talent and showmanship, what makes this band stand out among the rest is that their local fan base includes Bruce Springsteen, David Bryan and John Popper – all of whom have volunteered to perform on the band’s forthcoming album to be released in 2016. O’Ree’s talent and presence was finally recognized globally when he got the nod to join international superstars, Bon Jovi, as the band’s new guitarist/vocalist on the late 2015, international stadium tour. When some of your biggest supporters have sold a collective 230 million units, you know you’re doing something right. Growing up on influencers ranging from Jimi Hendrix, Cream, Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Rory Gallagher, ZZ Top, Robin Trower, Joe Walsh and Stevie Ray Vaughan, The Matt O’ Ree Band has taken all these diverse elements and forged a new iron. Matt’s writing is inspired from many life experiences and years of study from the ones that have wrote the book on how to play real guitar rock music. Not as a photocopy, but in a new light that hasn’t been seen in quite some time. Now is the time for real music and real musicianship to make a resurrection. The band takes their fans on a ride that hasn’t been heard or seen at this level since the 70’s. Their live show is like revisiting a Zeppelin concert at the Garden, and with Eric Safka on Hammond B3, Scott Bennert on Bass, and John Hummel on Drums, they’ve built a foundation that can hold up the biggest house on the block. After years of honing their craft, the Matt O’Ree Band is about to become an “overnight success.” Get M.O.B.’d up with New Jersey’s next, great export. About The BIG RoaD All-Star Band Created by Camp and Warren from an August 13, 2015 40th Anniversary “Born to Run” show, this 11-piece, All-Star band is backed by the best of the Jersey Shore including former Asbury Jukes, current (Jon Bon Jovi) Kings of Suburbia members and many local and national musicians and featured vocalists. About CFC Loud N Clear
About BIG RoaD BIG RoaD is an entertainment production company formed by Terry Camp, an attorney with Budd Larner, P.C., Short Hills, NJ and longtime member of the Shore music community, and newcomer Jesse Warren of Howell, NJ. Camp and Warren have collaborated on past, charitable events including the August 13, 2015 “Born to Run” 40th Anniversary show that sold out Bar Anticipation, last year’s “Big Man Bash 3” and the upcoming “Christmas Comes Early at Bar Anticipation on November 19, 2015.
Bar Anticipation 703 16th Avenue
For Press/Media inquiries and access: e-mail BIG RoaD at bigroadjesse@gmail.com
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A MAJOR COMING ATTRACTION NOT TO BE MISSED: THE 3rd ANNUAL BIG MAN’S BIRTHDAY BASH FOR CLARENCE CLEMONS AT BAR ANTICIPATION ON JANUARY 10, 2015 By Calvin Schwartz(0) A MAJOR COMING ATTRACTION NOT TO BE MISSED: THE 3rd ANNUAL BIG MAN’S BIRTHDAY BASH FOR CLARENCE CLEMONS AT BAR ANTICIPATION ON JANUARY 10, 2015 By Calvin Schwartz
Two years ago NJ Discover was hugely honored when we were asked to work the red carpet at the First Annual Big Man’s Birthday Bash for Clarence Clemons at the Wonder Bar. We interviewed the guests and celebrities and by the shank of the evening realized the commonality everyone shared; a powerful love and respect for Clarence and Nick. It probably sounds a bit trite but all night long you could feel this special energy bouncing around the Wonder Bar. You were excited to be there and absorb the molecular historic energy of the iconic Clarence. You felt something unique; glad to be alive and be part of it all. Last year the response to the 2nd Annual Big Man’s Birthday Bash was so large and anticipated they moved it to Martel’s in Point Pleasant. Once again the music and energy was magic. It lasted for hours. No one wanted to leave. The town curfew was exceeded; testament to the amazing night.
And this year, as the event grows in scope, performers and celebrities and in reasons for our world here in central Jersey to be there, absorb and partake, the event moves to Bar A in Belmar and becomes basically an all day/night party of music, food, drink and friends. Therefore it really is not to be missed. And as always, by careful design, there’s yet another reason to be there; a perfect charity to support; Hometown Heroes which embodies the very fabric of our life here in central Jersey. See you on January 10th 2015. Calvin Schwartz
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 17, 2014 THE 3rd ANNUAL BIG MAN’S BIRTHDAY BASH FOR CLARENCE CLEMONS AT BAR ANTICIPATION ON JANUARY 10, 2015 Lake Como, NJ – On January 10, 2015, the Jersey Shore celebrates the birthday of Hosted by actor, Vincent Pastore (“Big Pussy” from The Sopranos), featured acts include The Sensational Soul Cruisers, JoBonanno and the Godsons of Soul, Killer Joe and Lido Soul, The Eddie Testa Band, The Nick Clemons Band and many others. An All-Star line-up of Special Guest Artists that will join performing bands includes Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Gene Cornish (The Rascals), legends Bobby Bandiera (a regular member of Bon Jovi and a former Asbury Juke) and JT Bowen (the original frontman for Clemons’s Red Bank Rockers), “Mad Dog” Vini Lopez (Rock and Roll Hall of Famer as the original drummer for Springsteen’s E Street Band) and Lance Larson (original frontman for Lord Gunner). Also appearing will be Springsteen-fan favorite, “The Philly Elvis,” Nick Ferraro (who was most-favored by fans in the documentary, “Springsteen and I”) and actor, Artie Pasquale (whose credits include a regular role on The Sopranos). Many other guests are announced and more are expected to be added. Nick Clemons a.k.a. Clarence Clemons III is the oldest son of Clemons and a co-producer of the event. He states, “My father always taught me to ‘Give back’ and remember the less fortunate. I try to do that and Hometown Heroes does great work for those in need.” This is the third year that Clemons and his team have produced the Birthday Bash. Co-producer/Terry Camp is an attorney and long-time member of the Jersey Shore music community. He recalled, “When Clarence passed, Wonder Bar in Asbury Park hosted the Sensational Soul Cruisers and The Nick Clemons Band for a memorial show in July 2011. Bruce was kind enough to join us that epic night and we’ve been building on it since – selling out Wonder Bar in December 2012 and packing Martell’s in Point Pleasant last January. The show gets bigger and bigger every year.” He added, “We’re thrilled to be working with Tom Jannarone and his Bar Anticipation team. That place is cream of the crop for a diverse and quality entertainment experience.” The show will feature guest jams that are a long-time tradition on the Shore. Bash details and frequent updates are at the Facebook Event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/741748815903741/ Full line-up to date and guests are added regularly: Master of Ceremonies Vincent Pastore (Day Set) (Dinner and Gift Raffle) (Night Set) And Very Special Guests throughout including Gene Cornish The Bash is produced by the team of Nick Clemons (artist and first son of Clarence Clemons), Terry Camp (attorney/promoter), and Mike Schwartz (Hometown Heroes). The producers thank D2Toons Studios http://www.d2toons.com/ for its graphics work and especially thank “Born to Run” photographer, Eric Meola, for permission to use his Clarence photo and Tom Jannarone and his team at Bar A. About Hometown Heroes www.usahometownheroes.org Bar Anticipation www.bar-a.com For Press/Media inquiries and access: e-mail Terry Camp at tcamp@buddlarner.com. Phone – (973)315-4432
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‘THERE’S STILL CHRISTMAS’ Clarence Clemons’ Christmas Song and the story behind it. AND Clarence Clemons 3rd Annual Birthday Party Jan 10, 2015 By Calvin Schwartz November 29 th 2014(0) THERE’S STILL CHRISTMAS’ Clarence Clemons’ Christmas Song and the story behind it. AND Clarence Clemons 3rd Annual Birthday Party Jan 10, 2015 By Calvin Schwartz November 28th 2014
Firstly A QUICK REMINDER: THE 3rd ANNUAL “BIG MAN’s” BIRTHDAY BASH A Clarence Clemons Birthday Celebration to Benefit Hometown Heroes January 10th 2015 at BAR ANTICIPATION, Belmar, New Jersey FOR MORE INFO: https://www.facebook.com/events/741748815903741/permalink/754339011311388/
Two years ago and last year I published the essence of this article on my blog (vichywater.net) and here at NJ Discover; some things at holiday time are timeless and classic; movies and songs that fill your spirit with warmth and sentimentality. The story of this Christmas song richly recorded by the legendary Clarence Clemons is special and enduring and on its way to joining such classic holiday offerings as “It’s a Wonderful Life,” the history of the movie reminds me of how “There’s Still Christmas” is evolving. This Christmas song becomes part of Clarence’s legacy; that audio gift at holiday time. Two years through the magic of synchronicity and holiday spirit I came to interview Dennis Bourke(melody) and Jim Nuzzo (arranger) who helped bring the Clarence Clemons Christmas song “There’s Still Christmas” to our radar screens and Youtube etc. Yes, Clarence Clemons recorded this amazing song back in 1981. So a few years after he passed, he is still giving magic and his ‘bigness’ to us; the makings of another holiday classic; just like all the holiday Christmas movies I’ve talked about. Here is my article telling the story of this song. And please check out the link to listen to “There’s Still Christmas.”
A long time ago in another state, in another city (which has alternate side of the street parking), I was aimlessly flicking television channels with an antiquated remote when I caught the black and white beginning of a movie that I’d never seen, “It’s A Wonderful Life.” It was early autumn. Within a few minutes, I was drawn into the mystique and charm of this movie; throw an angel into storyline and I’m hooked for the long haul. I loved the movie’s message; about friends, family and dreams. The movie became a Christmas classic but not for many years after it was made in 1946. It was actually released in the summer that year and bombed at the box office. When I finished watching the movie, I wondered why this wasn’t a classic with its timeless message of Christmas spirit, incredible cast and storytelling. Over the next few years, Ronald Reagan became President and the movie began surfacing on television during the holiday season with uncanny frequency. I said to myself, “I knew it would find itself holiday time;” and did it ever. Back in the Garden State, in the early eighties, a few weeks before Christmas on a Saturday afternoon, I was flicking channels again with a more modern remote and stumbled upon “It’s A Wonderful Life” on six different channels at the same time, staggered so that you could see the ending if you were so moved; six times. “Atta boy Clarence,” Jimmy Stewart (George Bailey) says near the end; witness to the multi decade birth of a Christmas classic movie. Television stations today conspire to only do one showing per season; but it’s still a certifiable classic. Segue to the title of this article, ‘Eyewitness to a new classic Christmas song.’ By the way, I find it particularly haunting in my microcosmic synchronistic world that the angel in this movie is Clarence, and I’m writing about Clarence (Clemons). Hmmm!!
I told the story of this movie because in our crazy mixed-up, digital, smart-phone, fast food world, we’re likely to be witnessing the birth of yet another classic; this time an incredible Christmas song with such a moving emotional voice, the late ‘Big Man,’ Clarence Clemons. If you want to get in the mood before reading on, here’s the You Tube link to ‘There’s Still Christmas.’ Go listen and come back here. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NZ__QNFP5U I love angels and synchronicity. A few years ago, I came to know Jim Nuzzo and Dennis Bourke (and the late Stevie Betts, lyrics) who created this song with Clarence Clemons back in 1981. I’m a story teller so here goes. Back in 1981, Stevie Betts (lyricist) and Dennis Bourke (melody) wrote this song, ‘There’s Still Christmas’ and teamed up with Jim Nuzzo (arranger, producer) and got manager Matty Breuer (assistant tour manager for Springsteen back then) to approach Clarence Clemons. They all met at Clarence’s Sea Bright, New Jersey home, had some wine and presented the words of the song to the ‘Big Man.’ Being on hiatus from touring with Springsteen, Clarence wanted to do it. He loved the message of the song; when things look down, there’s still Christmas; simple yet poignant. And Clarence’s rich baritone voice that is silenced now; propels this to classic status. At the first recording session in October 1981, Clarence arrived wearing a cowboy hat. The next day he was wearing a Santa Claus hat and red vest exposing a chubby belly. He had Christmas lights put on the music stand; he was so in the mood to do this song. They rehearsed the song at ‘Big Man’s West’ in Red Bank; Clarence’s club. Jim and Dennis both told me about getting chills being in the same room with him when he performed. “He was a gentle down to earth guy,” Jim said. To relax during the recording sessions, they played video games. To prepare for record company submission, Clarence recorded the other side on solo sax another Christmas classic “The Christmas Song.” The record company never picked up the song so it’s been sleeping all these years waiting for classic beams of particulate historic energy. Last year the song was released but like the movie, so few of us knew it existed. I listened and was blown away; his voice and persona holds me in a suspended state; like I’ve known him all these years; like it’s a special legacy to all of us to have him back in our lives at Christmas this year. Imagine, after all these years; this song comes to us from Clarence at this holiday time of year; part of his enduring legacy. Here’s some links to this wonderful life song/info:
Available for purchase on iTunes, CD Baby, Amazon, and Backstreets.com http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/theres-still-christmas-single/id474038459?uo=4http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/clarenceclemons You can also find ‘There’s Still Christmas’ on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Theres-Still-Christmas-Clarence-Clemons/286246628066619?fref=ts Bottom line. Please go listen and fall in love with the song. Purchase it. Sit by the fire place with a glass of wine or egg nog. Enjoy the Happy Holidays. Listen to his wondrous voice. Thanks again to Jim Nuzzo and Dennis Bourke for their passion and time. And to Stevie Betts for his wonderful lyrics and words. And Clarence. Calvin Schwartz
PLEASE VISIT BLOG www.vichywater.net and book trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qj2ko9gcC_M |
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CALVIN SCHWARTZ: My Christmas Holiday 2013 Blog: ‘A Christmas Carol’ Starring Alastair Sim; Why It’s Still Timeless. Eyewitness to a New Classic Christmas song: Introducing ‘The Big Man,’ Clarence Clemons recorded song ‘There’s Still Christmas.’ December 18, 2013(0) CALVIN SCHWARTZ: My Christmas Holiday 2013 Blog: ‘A Christmas Carol’ Starring Alastair Sim; Why It’s Still Timeless. Eyewitness to a New Classic Christmas song: Introducing ‘The Big Man,’ Clarence Clemons recorded song ‘There’s Still Christmas.’ December 18, 2013
Most importantly, at the outset of this unique (I think it is) blog, I’d like to wish everyone a Merry Happy Healthy Christmas and New Years and Holiday Season from all of us at the NJ Discover family. Looking forward to the New Year discovering ‘together’ more about our precious and great state of New Jersey. Calvin Schwartz
I decided to do my Holiday blog; it’s snowing outside but it’ll turn to rain and wash away hopes of using a new holiday motivated snow blower. Sentimentality always grips me this time of year as the holidays abound with spirit, tradition and memories. On Thanksgiving, I start to gear up for the holidays and watch ‘March of the Wooden Soldiers’ with Laurel and Hardy. I’ve been watching that movie for over 60 years, the last 23 with my son just as I watched with my father. For me it kicks off the Christmas season and imparts lessons about life, togetherness and family and living in a shoe. My thoughts about the movie’s meaning; I think the movie shows an early example of robots (wooden soldiers) being used productively by humans. The movie (from 1934) was a pioneer in other relevant areas such as animal rights by harshly depicting the banishing of pig-nappers to Bogeyland. The film also deals with a powerful contemporary issue of affordable housing or as they’re newly called, tiny houses for the homeless. The three pigs lived in tiny houses in Toyland in the film. I’m into pig issues since I’ve not eaten anything with four legs since 1975 so I’m cognizant about their plight as a species.
The movie is powerful stuff; it transports me back to Newark in simpler times of rotary phones and only seven black and white television channels. I still remember my old phone number; one number off from a local Chinese Restaurant. We used to get quite a few phone orders for take-out chow mein; no further comment. Moving on to one of my favorite movies (holiday and all year), ‘A Christmas Carol’ starring Alastair Sim from 1951. There have been a number of actors playing Scrooge. For me it’s only Alastair Sim. The tech noir film ambiance lends itself perfectly to the time Charles Dickens wrote the novella in 1843. A few things about the movie still hold on to my soul. The Ghost of Christmas Present reveals to Scrooge two emaciated children, clinging to his robes, and names the boy as ‘Ignorance’ and the girl as ‘Want’. The spirit warns Scrooge, “Beware them both, and all of their degree, but most of all beware this boy, for on his brow I see that written which is Doom, unless the writing be erased.”, dramatizing the book’s social message.
As a journalist and human, nearly two years ago, I became involved with Tent City in Lakewood, New Jersey where 100 homeless humans have been living in tents for up to 12 years because Ocean County has no provision for the homeless. Then a year ago I became involved with the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, writing several articles about hunger and “want” and need. Then I went to an all-day event in Red Bank dealing with hunger. In 1980 there were 40 food banks and pantries for the hungry in America; today there are 40,000 with 50 million hungry Americans. Then there’s Dickens in 1843 warning about ‘Want’ and I say to myself nothing has changed here on earth and in America since 1843. Want and Ignorance and Hunger not only exist but grow in scope. On a more upbeat extraction from the movie; the scene on Christmas morning when Scrooge wakes up and realizes he’s still alive and can change the course of his life by being a better, giving, and grateful human. The sheer joy and excitement of revelation causes Scrooge to stand on his head on a sofa which is priceless. I love when he says to Mrs.Dilber, “I haven’t lost my senses, I’ve come to them.” Therefore I’ve added this scene to my bucket list. Someday I’ll come to that moment of sheer joy and find reason to stand on my head; hopefully on a certain morning television program. Scrooge and I are about the same age so if he can stand on his head so can I.
Finally, last year through the magic of synchronicity and holiday spirit I came to interview Dennis Bourke(melody) and Jim Nuzzo (arranger) who helped bring the Clarence Clemons Christmas song “There’s Still Christmas” to our radar screens and Youtube etc. Yes, Clarence Clemons recorded this amazing song back in 1981. So a few years after he passed, he is still giving magic and his ‘bigness’ to us; the makings of another holiday classic; just like all the holiday Christmas movies I’ve talked about. Here is my article from last year telling the story of this song. And please check out the link to listen to “There’s Still Christmas.” A long time ago in another state, in another city (which has alternate side of the street parking), I was aimlessly flicking television channels with an antiquated remote when I caught the black and white beginning of a movie that I’d never seen, “It’s A Wonderful Life.” It was early autumn. Within a few minutes, I was drawn into the mystique and charm of this movie; throw an angel into storyline and I’m hooked for the long haul. I loved the movie’s message; about friends, family and dreams. The movie became a Christmas classic but not for many years after it was made in 1946. It was actually released in the summer that year and bombed at the box office.
When I finished watching the movie, I wondered why this wasn’t a classic with its timeless message of Christmas spirit, incredible cast and storytelling. Over the next few years, Ronald Reagan became President and the movie began surfacing on television during the holiday season with uncanny frequency. I said to myself, “I knew it would find itself holiday time;” and did it ever. Back in the Garden State, in the early eighties, a few weeks before Christmas on a Saturday afternoon, I was flicking channels again with a more modern remote and stumbled upon “It’s A Wonderful Life” on six different channels at the same time, staggered so that you could see the ending if you were so moved; six times. “Atta boy Clarence,” Jimmy Stewart (George Bailey) says near the end; witness to the multi decade birth of a Christmas classic movie. Television stations today conspire to only do one showing per season; but it’s still a certifiable classic. Segue to the title of this article, ‘Eyewitness to a new classic Christmas song.’ By the way, I find it particularly haunting in my microcosmic synchronistic world that the angel in this movie is Clarence, and I’m writing about Clarence (Clemons). Hmmm!!
I told the story of the movie because in our crazy mixed-up, digital, smart-phone, fast food world, we’re likely to be witnessing the birth of yet another classic; this time an incredible Christmas song with such a moving emotional voice, the late ‘Big Man,’ Clarence Clemons. If you want to get in the mood before reading on, here’s the You Tube link to ‘There’s Still Christmas.’ Go listen and come back here. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NZ__QNFP5U I love angels and synchronicity. Forty-eight weeks ago, I came to know Jim Nuzzo and Dennis Bourke (and the late Stevie Betts, lyrics) who created this song with Clarence Clemons back in 1981. I’m a story teller so here goes. Back in 1981, Stevie Betts (lyricist) and Dennis Bourke (melody) wrote this song, ‘There’s Still Christmas’ and teamed up with Jim Nuzzo (arranger, producer) and got manager Matty Breuer (assistant tour manager for Springsteen back then) to approach Clarence Clemons. They all met at Clarence’s Sea Bright, New Jersey home, had some wine and presented the words of the song to the ‘Big Man.’ Being on hiatus from touring with Springsteen, Clarence wanted to do it. He loved the message of the song; when things look down, there’s still Christmas; simple yet poignant. And Clarence’s rich baritone voice that is silenced now; propels this to classic status. At the first recording session in October 1981, Clarence arrived wearing a cowboy hat. The next day he was wearing a Santa Claus hat and red vest exposing a chubby belly. He had Christmas lights put on the music stand; he was so in the mood to do this song. They rehearsed the song at ‘Big Man’s West’ in Red Bank; Clarence’s club. Jim and Dennis both told me about getting chills being in the same room with him when he performed. “He was a gentle down to earth guy,” Jim said. To relax during the recording sessions, they played video games. To prepare for record company submission, Clarence recorded the other side on solo sax another Christmas classic “The Christmas Song.” The record company never picked up the song so it’s been sleeping all these years waiting for classic beams of particulate historic energy. Last year the song was released but like the movie, so few of us knew it existed. I listened and was blown away; his voice and persona holds me in a suspended state; like I’ve known him all these years; like it’s a special legacy to all of us to have him back in our lives at Christmas this year. Imagine, after all these years; this song comes to us from Clarence at this holiday time of year; part of his enduring legacy. Here’s some links to this wonderful life song/info: http://www.oceangaterecords.com/
Available for purchase on iTunes, CD Baby, Amazon, and Backstreets.com http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/theres-still-christmas-single/id474038459?uo=4http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/clarenceclemons You can also find ‘There’s Still Christmas’ on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Theres-Still-Christmas-Clarence-Clemons/286246628066619?fref=ts Bottom line. Please go listen and fall in love with the song. Purchase it. Sit by the fire place with a glass of wine or egg nog. Enjoy the Happy Holidays. Listen to his wondrous voice. Thanks again to Jim Nuzzo and Dennis Bourke for their passion and time. And to Stevie Betts for his wonderful lyrics and words. And Clarence.
Calvin Schwartz
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NJ DISCOVER SPECIAL EDITION LIVE RADIO SHOW: TUESDAY DECEMBER 10TH 8 PM: With Special Guests and Live Music including Nick Clemons, JT Bowen, Jo Bonanno: Highlighting upcoming January 11th “Big Man’s West Reunion Show” in Point Pleasant Beach. It’s ALL about CLARENCE CLEMONS!! Don’t miss this LIVE SHOW with hosts Tara-Jean Vitale and Calvin Schwartz(0) NJ DISCOVER SPECIAL EDITION LIVE RADIO SHOW: TUESDAY DECEMBER 10TH 8 PM: With Special Guests and Live Music including Nick Clemons, JT Bowen, Jo Bonanno: Highlighting upcoming January 11th “Big Man’s West Reunion Show” in Point Pleasant Beach. It’s ALL about CLARENCE CLEMONS!! Don’t miss this LIVE SHOW with hosts Tara-Jean Vitale and Calvin Schwartz
FOR TUESDAY’S LIVE RADIO SHOW TUNE IN HERE 8 PM:
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS RADIO SHOW/ CALVIN SCHWARTZ: How thrilled I am these past few years to have come into the aura of Clarence Clemons. For me here in Central Jersey and so cognizant of the music scene with all its cascading particulates of special energy (Bruce, E-Street, Clarence and the band) and being in such absorb-able proximity to all the extant energy has been some of the most meaningful collection of months in my life. What I’m saying is that I’ve loved and cherished all my time spent close to the aura of Clarence and being part of his special Jersey music scene. I fondly remember walking around Asbury Park in late fall last year, bumping into an early Springsteen band affiliate and talking about Clarence. I just asked questions endlessly like the first time Bruce and Clarence met and a door coming unhinged. According to my boardwalk acquaintance, it was a car door that blew off the hinges in a near hurricane. It doesn’t matter for me. I need everything I can imagine and hear and learn; I’m just like a wide-eyed kid trying to learn everything about Clarence. I’m in total awe of the greatness and depth of his talent. And to think, he started out right here in central Jersey. I consider it one of the more precious synchronistic moments in my life to have met Clarence’s son Nick Clemons in Asbury Park two summers ago after his first annual Asbury Park Comedy Festival. Nick and I were both wearing red Rutgers hats and the rest is history. And now I’m hosting with Tara-Jean Vitale and NJDiscover our radio show featuring Nick Clemons and musical friends of Clarence’s. On our radio show, we’ll take a retrospective look back at Clarence’s venture in Red Bank, ‘Big Man’s West’ and listen to some poignant music and tell the world about Clarence’s big birthday party at Martell’s Tiki Bar in Point Pleasant on January 11th 2014 which is a reunion celebration. This is going to be one memorable incredible radio show. Nick Clemons and great musicians all gathered for an historic hour here in central Jersey about 3 miles from Clarence’s first home here in Jersey. How perfect this all is; and its two weeks and a day from Christmas adding to the ambiance and spirit of NJ Discover’s radio show. Looking forward to Tuesday. Calvin Schwartz December 6th 9:44 PM 39 degrees outside my office window in central Jersey.
Join Cal & Tara-Jean at Listen Right Here to all your favorite podcasts of NJDiscover RADIO
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Reflections and Interviews: Celebrating the Birthday of Clarence Clemons (The Big Man) at Wonder Bar, Asbury Park (Video) By Calvin Schwartz(1) Historic Night: Celebrating the Birthday of Clarence Clemons at Wonder Bar, Asbury Park By Calvin Schwartz 
On Jan 12th hundreds of fans, family and friends came together to celebrate the birthday of Clarence Clemons, ‘The Big Man’ at a sold out Wonder Bar in Asbury Park. NJ Discover TV was given the honor by the Clemons Family to video personal reflections of some who knew and loved the Big Man. The evening was also a benefit to raise money for area school district music departments that lost instruments and various supplies in Hurricane Sandy.
What made the evening uniquely special was that the State of New Jersey made an official declaration (the day before) on January 11th which now recognizes “Clarence Clemons Day” every January 11th and although there will be many events in the following weeks; this was the official “Clemons Family Event” birthday celebration. For NJ Discover, the evening was purely magical and wondrous to have been involved with such an outpouring of love and memories of Clarence’s unique and historic presence. Feeling the electricity and energy the entire night was easy; all palpable and recorded for posterity. To be able to share is very special. Before the special night, I composed the following thoughts why I thought the evening was historic. Perhaps fitting and proper to share those words again here:
WHY THIS BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR CLARENCE CLEMONS: Historic ingredients (alignment of celestial forces of relevancy) of a special day/musical concert: There have been Hurricane Sandy events throughout our state. We’ve all come to understand what ‘Jersey Strong’ means. We live it every day; always have; just so much more pronounced these days. You take this awareness and add the late great Clarence Clemon’s Birthday on January 11th and the historic resolution by the New Jersey Senate to annually honor one of the Jersey Shore’s (and worlds) most iconic musicians with a day named after him. Every Jan. 11 will now be Clarence Clemons Day. Last week the NJ Senate passed a resolution sponsored by Senator Jennifer Beck (R-11) that memorializes the legendary saxophonist from Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band. More ingredients. The Clemon’s Family and Nick Clemons (Clarence Clemons III) have chosen to celebrate Clarence’s birthday with “Celebrating Clarence: The Big Man’s Birthday Benefit” at the Wonderbar in Asbury Park January 12th. Even More ingredients. Nick Clemons has a sensitive and caring soul tuned to the pulse of what’s relevant, happening and charitable (pay it forward) in our Jersey world. Back last summer, he produced the Asbury Comedy and Music Festival to benefit the Lenny Bruce Foundation and Lenny’s House. With this benefit on January 12th, Nick and the Clemons Family decided to raise money for area school district music departments that have lost instruments and various supplies in Hurricane Sandy; how relevant and meaningful to give to the dramatically impacted world of music education in the name of iconic musician Clarence Clemons. I spoke to Emma Fretz, instrument, choral and general music instructor at both Point Pleasant Beach High and Bay Head Schools which suffered heavy damage to their music resources. Things you never realize: In Bay Head School, they had seven feet of water in the music room. And “because the room is two feet below sea level, content insurance does not cover this and the insurance is null and void,” Emma explained. So their music program resources were completely destroyed. “You don’t realize how expensive even the little things are, like sheet music or hand bells,” Emma continued. Along comes Clarence’s birthday, Nick Clemons, his energy and commitment and we’ve got a night of music and birthday celebrations ; as I say, “Get off the sedentary sofa and come for music, celebration, poignant causes and history.” I think the perfect celestial alignment of stars, moon and Big Man. Calvin Schwartz
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A MAJOR MUSICAL EVENT: “Celebrating Clarence: The Big Man’s Birthday Benefit” January 12th Wonder Bar. Asbury Park. AND This JUST in: A real saxaphone Birthday Cake!!! by Calvin Schwartz(0) Celebrating Clarence: The Big Man’s Birthday Benefit The “Official Clemons Family Event” – to celebrate New Jersey’s newly declared “Clarence Clemons Day”.
On Jan 12th we will be celebrating the birthday of the Big Man – Clarence Clemons at the Wonder Bar in Asbury Park. This is a benefit to raise money for area school district music departments that have lost instruments and various supplies in the storm. We urge all of you to attend it will be a great event and for a great cause that will see immediate results for our local communities! The Bands lined up to play are…… The Nick Clemons Band Jobonanno & The Godsons Steve Smith and the Nakeds with special guest JT Bowen and MANY MORE!
AND THIS IS JUST IN: (1-9-13 7 pm) A BIRTHDAY CAKE FOR CLARENCE We will be singing Happy Birthday and will have a cake from non other than Carlos Bakery in Hoboken. They are creating a saxophone masterpiece. Carlo’s Bakery IS the setting of the hit TLC show “Cake Boss”
The State of New Jersey has made an official declaration….January 11th is now “Clarence Clemons Day” and although there will be many events in the following weeks; this is the official “Clemons Family Event”. We hope that you will put this special birthday benefit show on your calendar as friends, fans and loved ones of the Big Man to celebrate his birthday. Proceeds to benefit Jersey Shore school music departments affected by Hurricane Sandy! There will be a Silent Auction to further raise money for the school music departments. All support is appreciated for this event by musician to support the arts and up and coming musicians in our schools. Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/180868898725836 Doors 6pm. Tickets $15 advance $20 at the door. Tickets on sale now at Ticketmaster and the Stone Pony Box Office. http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0000498B85C46699
INGREDIENTS OF A MAJOR MUSICAL EVENT: Historic ingredients (alignment of celestial forces of relevancy) of a special day/musical concert: There have been Hurricane Sandy events throughout our state. We’ve all come to understand what ‘Jersey Strong’ means. We live it every day; always have; just so much more pronounced these days. You take this awareness and add the late great Clarence Clemon’s Birthday on January 11th and the historic resolution by the New Jersey Senate to annually honor one of the Jersey Shore’s (and worlds) most iconic musicians with a day named after him. Every Jan. 11 will now be Clarence Clemons Day. Last week the NJ Senate passed a resolution sponsored by Senator Jennifer Beck (R-11) that memorializes the legendary saxophonist from Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band. More ingredients. The Clemons Family and Nick Clemons (Clarence Clemons III) chose to celebrate Clarence’s birthday with “Celebrating Clarence: The Big Man’s Birthday Benefit” at the Wonder Bar in Asbury Park January 12th. Even More ingredients. Nick Clemons has a sensitive and caring soul tuned to the pulse of what’s relevant, happening and charitable (pay it forward) in our Jersey world. Last summer, he produced the Asbury Comedy and Music Festival to benefit the Lenny Bruce Foundation and Lenny’s House. With this benefit on January 12th, Nick and the Clemons Family decided to raise money for area school district music departments that have lost instruments and various supplies in Hurricane Sandy; how relevant and meaningful to give to the dramatically impacted world of music education in the name of iconic musician Clarence Clemons. I just talked to Emma Fretz, instrument, choral and general music instructor at both Point Pleasant Beach High and Bay Head Schools which suffered heavy damage to their music resources. Things you never realize: In Bay Head School, they had seven feet of water in the music room. And “because the room is two feet below sea level, content insurance does not cover this and the insurance is null and void,” Emma explained. So their music program resources were completely destroyed. “You don’t realize how expensive even the little things are, like sheet music or hand bells,” Emma continued. Along comes Clarence’s birthday, Nick Clemons and his energy and we’ve got a special night of music and birthday celebrations ; as I say, “Get off the sedentary sofa and come for music, celebration, a poignant cause and history.” I think the perfect celestial alignment of stars, moon and Big Man. Calvin Schwartz December 26th 2012
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Eyewitness to a new classic Christmas song: Introducing ‘The Big Man,’ Clarence Clemons ‘There’s Still Christmas.’ By Calvin Schwartz December 5, 2012(2)
WHY is this story here at NJ Discover? Because the song was born right here in New Jersey, USA. All New Jersey musicians. And the song was re-discovered right here in NJ. A long time ago in another state, in another city (which has alternate side of the street parking), I was aimlessly flicking television channels with an antiquated remote when I caught the black and white beginning of a movie that I’d never seen, “It’s A Wonderful Life.” It was early autumn. Within a few minutes, I was drawn into the mystique and charm of this movie; throw an angel into storyline and I’m hooked for the long haul. I loved the movie’s message; about friends, family and dreams. The movie became a Christmas classic but not for many years after it was made in 1946. It was actually released in the summer that year and bombed at the box office.
When I finished watching the movie, I wondered why this wasn’t a classic with its timeless message of Christmas spirit, incredible cast and storytelling. Over the next few years, Ronald Reagan became President and the movie began surfacing on television during the holiday season with uncanny frequency. I said to myself, “I knew it would find itself holiday time;” and did it ever. Back in the Garden State, in the early eighties, a few weeks before Christmas on a Saturday afternoon, I was flicking channels again with a more modern remote and stumbled upon “It’s A Wonderful Life” on six different channels at the same time, staggered so that you could see the ending if you were so moved; six times. “Atta boy Clarence,” Jimmy Stewart (George Bailey) says near the end; witness to the multi decade birth of a Christmas classic movie. Television stations today conspire to only do one showing per season; but it’s still a certifiable classic. Segue to the title of this article, ‘Eyewitness to a new classic Christmas song.’ By the way, I find it particularly haunting in my microcosmic synchronistic world that the angel in this movie is a Clarence, and I’m writing about Clarence(Clemons). Hmmm!!
I told the story of the movie because in our crazy mixed-up, digital, smart-phone, fast food world, we’re likely to be witnessing the birth of yet another classic; this time an incredible Christmas song with such a moving emotional voice, the late ‘Big Man,’ Clarence Clemons. If you want to get in the mood before reading on, here’s the You Tube link to ‘There’s Still Christmas.’ Go listen and come back here. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NZ__QNFP5U&playnext=1&list=PLB17BACDC89FDA3CD&feature=results_video
I love angels and synchronicity. Six weeks ago, I came to know Jim Nuzzo and Dennis Bourke who created this song with Clarence Clemons back in 1981. I’m a story teller so here goes. Back in 1981, Stevie Betts (lyricist) and Dennis Bourke (melody) wrote this song, ‘There’s Still Christmas’ and teamed up with Jim Nuzzo (arranger, producer) and got manager Natty Bruer (assistant tour manager for Springsteen back then) to approach Clarence Clemons. They all met at Clarence’s Sea Bright, New Jersey home, had some wine and presented the words of the song to the ‘Big Man.’ Being on hiatus from touring with Springsteen, Clarence wanted to do it. He loved the message of the song; when things look down, there’s still Christmas; simple yet poignant. And Clarence’s rich baritone voice that is silenced now; propels this to classic status. At the first recording session in October 1981, Clarence arrived wearing a cowboy hat. The next day he was wearing a Santa Claus hat and red vest exposing a chubby belly. He had Christmas lights put on the music stand; he was so in the mood to do this song. They rehearsed the song at ‘Big Man’s West’ in Red Bank; Clarence’s club. Jim and Dennis both told me about getting chills being in the same room with him when he performed. “He was a gentle down to earth guy,” Jim said. To relax during the recording sessions, they played video games. To prepare for record company submission, Clarence recorded the other side on solo sax another Christmas classic “The Christmas Song.” The record company never picked up the song so it’s been sleeping all these years waiting for classic beams of particulate historic energy. Last year the song was released(thanks Terry Camp) but like the movie, so few of us knew it existed. I listened and was blown away; his voice and persona holds me in a suspended state; like I’ve known him all these years; like it’s a special legacy to all of us to have him back in our lives at Christmas this year.
But there’s more to the legacy of Clarence and this song. Jim Nuzzo and Dennis Bourke (A Viet Nam vet) have affiliated with this amazing charity ‘Give an Hour’ http://www.giveanhour.org/Home.aspx a non-profit organization providing free mental health services to US Military personnel and their families affected by current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. All of which means as we move to make this wonderful song a Christmas mainstay and classic, proceeds from the sale of this song on iTunes, CD Baby will help our military. Imagine, after all these years that this song comes to us from Clarence at the holiday time of year; part of his enduring legacy. Here’s some links to this wonderful life song/info:
http://www.oceangaterecords.com/ A percentage of cd sales from “There’s Still Christmas” by the legendary Clarence Clemons will be donated to Give an Hour, a non-profit organization that provides free mental health services to military personnel, their loved ones and hometown communities affected by conflicts abroad. Please open up your hearts, honor Clarence and support our veterans by purchasing your copy for this holiday season.
Available for purchase on iTunes, CD Baby, Amazon, and Backstreets.com http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/theres-still-christmas-single/id474038459?uo=4http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/clarenceclemons You can also find ‘There’s Still Christmas’ on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Theres-Still-Christmas-Clarence-Clemons/286246628066619?fref=ts
Bottom line. Please go listen and fall in love with the song. Purchase it. Sit by the fire place with a glass of wine or egg nog. Enjoy the Happy Holidays. Listen to his wondrous voice. Thanks to Jim Nuzzo and Dennis Bourke for their passion and time. And CLARENCE.
By Calvin Schwartz Also at: http://www.vichywater.net/blog/
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Asbury Angels Induction Ceremony: [Video] Asbury Park NJ Sunday September 23rd. Calvin Schwartz (writer) Tara-Jean Vitale(0)
Asbury Angels Induction Ceremony: Asbury Park NJ Sunday September 23rd. Calvin Schwartz (writer) Tara-Jean Vitale (video)
By Calvin Schwartz
Twenty minutes before the Asbury Angels ceremony. Shooting down Asbury Avenue for the 78th time this year; that’s an approximation but probably close. I’ve developed a love affair to remember with Asbury Park and find myself there three or four times a week; hey, I’m a music, art, environmental and evolving cerebral journalist and Asbury has morphed into a renaissance/ re-birth. I’ve been saying for some time now in my writings that part of this dynamic is the celestial descending of particulates of molecular energy from the living and past musical history of this town; I’m saying that the world knows about Springsteen, Southside Johnny, Vini Lopez, and the vast array of current performers whose roots came from Asbury.
Yes, for me this energy is absolutely palpable. Last summer I remember walking down Cookman Avenue and looking across the street at several houses. One had a pastel green back porch; a young teenage boy was playing a guitar and gyrating. I was certain he was pretending /dreaming ‘Springsteen.’ I thought to myself; it’s the sprinkled particle energy of the living legends. I also thought while heading down Asbury Avenue, adhering to the speed limit, passed an Italian restaurant and beautiful red brick church, that I was heading to an emotional poignant ceremony honoring particulate energy of Asbury music history of those who have passed on.
Iconic Tony Pallagrosi, so deeply involved in the musical and philanthropic composition of Asbury Park founded the Asbury Angels. “The mission of the Asbury Angels is to honor and memorialize the lives and history of members of the Asbury Park musical community, including but not limited to, musicians, tech support persons, DJs, journalists, club owners, record company personnel, managers and promoters.”
NJ Discover’s team, Tara-Jean Vitale (editor, producer) and I quickly slammed car doors in front of the Stone Pony, and joined the hundreds assembling on the boardwalk for the induction of the 2012 class (first one) of the Asbury Angels. Jackie Pappas from the Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce introduced Tony Pallagrosi who read brief biographies of the inductees. Families and friends applauded each reading; the ocean glistened in the background; the sky was perfectly blue and the weather Gods cooperated. The night before, Pallagrosi hinted, Springsteen’s concert at Met Life stadium was rain delayed until 10:30pm.
I listened to every word of each bio. These were legends and icons that did so much for Asbury music. I kept thinking in the midst of the throngs consuming the whole width of the boardwalk, that someday these Angels would’ve contributed to making Asbury Park one of the world’s music destinations. I want to think everyone thought like me. After all, look at the depth, range and impact of these Angels. Its two days later as I write this. I’m still intestinally queasy. I was so moved being there.
As each name was read, a plaque on a boardwalk bench was unveiled with the bio of the Angel. Huge scissors were summoned to cut the yellow ribbon to share the memorial for the ages. It was Asbury Park’s walk of fame. The 2012 Asbury Angels are: Arthur Willard Pryor, Bobby Alfano, Larry ‘Bozo’ Blasco, Bill Chinnock, Clarence Clemons, Danny Federici, John Luraschi, Joe Arthur Major, Arthur Morris, Tom and Margaret Potter, and Moe Septee. When the ceremony was over, I watched people hugging and shaking hands, photographers capturing plaques, old friends seeing one another after decades, smiles and bittersweet teary eyes; a panoply of emotions. I did my joyous deep inhalation/exhalation. “Hey Mah, look where I am,” and thought ten thousand people should’ve been here to experience this. (Or more) You can find the biographies and information on the Asbury Angels here: |
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