Williams Honor
Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music Launches Free Summer Concert Series at Monmouth University
July 23 @ 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Thursday, July 16: Kicking off the series is Vini “Mad Dog” Lopez & The Wonderful Winos. Lopez is a legendary local figure known as the original drummer for Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band.
Music has always been at the heart of the Jersey Shore, and this summer the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music is expanding that tradition with a brand new outdoor concert series that invites residents and visitors alike to experience live performances in one of New Jersey’s newest cultural destinations. Beginning Thursday, July 16, 2026, the Center, in partnership with Asbury Audio, will present a free weekly Summer Concert Series at the Klose Amphitheater on the campus of Monmouth University in West Long Branch.
Running every Thursday evening through August 20, the series celebrates the artists, communities, and musical traditions that have shaped New Jersey’s enduring influence on American music. The concerts are designed to create an accessible gathering place where audiences can enjoy outstanding live performances in a relaxed outdoor setting while exploring the newest addition to the state’s growing collection of cultural attractions.
The series begins with one of New Jersey’s most recognizable musical figures, Vini “Mad Dog” Lopez & The Wonderful Winos. Lopez remains an iconic part of New Jersey music history as the original drummer of Bruce Springsteen’s legendary E Street Band. His opening night performance promises to blend classic rock influences with the energy and musicianship that have made him a respected figure throughout decades of live performance.
The following Thursday, July 23, the spotlight turns to Williams Honor, the acclaimed country rock duo from Asbury Park. Known for thoughtful songwriting and polished musicianship, Williams Honor continues to build a strong following throughout the region and carries a unique connection to New Jersey’s musical heritage, having made an early career appearance alongside Bruce Springsteen. Additional performances scheduled through August 20 will showcase a rotating lineup of local and regional artists representing Americana, roots music, rock, singer songwriter traditions, and other genres that continue to define the Garden State’s vibrant music scene.
Unlike many summer concert events, the Bruce Springsteen Center’s series is completely free and open to everyone. No tickets or advance registration are required, making it one of the most accessible recurring live music events in Monmouth County this season. Guests are encouraged to arrive early, bring lawn chairs or blankets, and enjoy an evening of music in the amphitheater’s open air setting.
The concerts also provide visitors with an opportunity to experience the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music itself. Located inside the Center’s new 32,000 square foot facility, the museum explores the broader story of American music through the lens of New Jersey’s extraordinary musical legacy. Interactive exhibits, historical collections, educational programming, and special exhibitions examine how artists have used music to reflect culture, inspire social change, and tell uniquely American stories.
Because performances take place on Thursday evenings, museum hours are extended until 8:00 PM, allowing visitors to tour the galleries before enjoying the outdoor concerts. Current exhibitions continue to explore the intersection of music, history, and American culture while highlighting the creative influences that have shaped generations of musicians.
The Klose Amphitheater offers an intimate setting where audiences can enjoy performances against the backdrop of Monmouth University’s picturesque campus. Rather than focusing on large scale production, the Summer Concert Series emphasizes musicianship, songwriting, and community, creating an atmosphere where listeners can experience live music in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
The Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music has quickly emerged as one of New Jersey’s most significant new cultural institutions. Beyond preserving the legacy of one of the state’s most celebrated artists, the Center serves as a year round destination dedicated to education, storytelling, live performance, and the continuing evolution of American music. The Summer Concert Series reflects that mission by creating opportunities for audiences to connect directly with the musicians carrying those traditions forward today.
Whether you are a lifelong Bruce Springsteen fan, someone interested in New Jersey’s remarkable musical heritage, or simply looking for an enjoyable summer evening outdoors, this concert series offers an outstanding reason to visit West Long Branch. Free admission, talented performers, an inviting outdoor venue, and access to one of the state’s newest museums combine to create an experience that highlights everything that makes New Jersey’s music scene so enduring.
For anyone planning a summer filled with concerts, cultural attractions, and memorable local experiences, the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music Summer Concert Series deserves a place on the calendar. It is another reminder that New Jersey continues to celebrate not only its legendary musical past, but also the artists and performances shaping its future.
