Few musical families can claim a legacy as enduring and New Jersey–rooted as the Nelsons. From television and radio pioneers to rock chart-toppers, the Nelson family has left an indelible mark on American entertainment. Today, Matthew and Gunnar Nelson carry that torch as the rock duo Nelson, performing both their 1990s hits and honoring the songs of their father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Ricky Nelson, and grandfather, Ozzie Nelson, who helped define early television and radio.
My own history with the band adds an insider perspective on the Nelsons’ journey. In the 1990s, I processed their Geffen Records deal memo company wide and with geffen’s staff before setting up their contract files and legal documentation. I also handled deal memos, licensing, and soundtrack clearances for songs associated with Kathy Nelson, related to Ricky Nelson. A quick shout-out is also due to John Schilocci, a remarkable label executive who introduced me to Pat DiNizio, the late lead singer of The Smithereens and a proud New Jersey native but he worked with Kathy. These personal connections underscore the vibrant New Jersey music scene and its influence on the industry at large.
The Nelson Family and New Jersey Roots
The Nelsons’ connection to New Jersey runs deep. Ozzie Nelson, the family patriarch and a key figure in entertainment history, was born in Jersey City, while his son Ricky Nelson—the beloved singer and teen idol—was born in Teaneck. During the 1950s, the family lived in the state, leaving behind a cultural and community footprint that persists today.
Even the town of Ridgefield Park honors the family with a street named Ozzie Nelson Drive, a tangible reminder of the Nelsons’ influence on the Garden State. For Matthew and Gunnar, performing in New Jersey is not just about the music—it’s about celebrating a family legacy intertwined with the state’s history.
Nelson: The Band
Formed in the late 1980s, the band Nelson consists of twin brothers Matthew and Gunnar Nelson, sons of Ricky Nelson and grandsons of Ozzie and Harriet Nelson. Their debut album, After the Rain (1990), instantly made waves with its commercially savvy rock sound, catchy hooks, and polished harmonies. Hits like “(Can’t Live Without Your) Love and Affection” showcased their songwriting prowess and helped cement their status as third-generation torchbearers of the family’s entertainment legacy.
Known for their striking good looks and trademark long blonde hair, Matthew and Gunnar quickly became teen heartthrobs. But beyond appearances, it was their ability to blend pop-rock sensibilities with multi-generational influence that set them apart. Their performances often weave together songs from three generations of the family—from Ozzie and Harriet’s classic era to Ricky Nelson’s hits, culminating in the Nelson brothers’ own 90s successes.
Performing in New Jersey
The Garden State remains a cornerstone of the Nelsons’ touring schedule. In 2025 alone, Matthew and Gunnar have performed at multiple venues across New Jersey, including The Newton Theatre in Newton, NJ, in January 2025 as well as Borgata’s Music Box in 2017, and most of all, they play The Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center in Carteret, NJ, in September 2025.
These shows, often billed as “A Night of Nelsons”, highlight the family’s three-generation musical journey, combining Ricky Nelson’s classic hits, Ozzie and Harriet era songs, and the Nelson brothers’ own rock anthems. Fans experience not just a concert but a celebration of an American entertainment dynasty rooted in New Jersey culture.
A Legacy Beyond Music
The Nelson family’s influence extends beyond music. Ricky Nelson’s success and Ozzie Nelson’s pioneering work in television helped define modern entertainment, and Matthew and Gunnar continue to honor that legacy while forging their own path. Their connection to New Jersey enriches each performance, giving local audiences a personal link to rock and roll history.
For those wanting to experience this legacy firsthand, the Nelson brothers’ upcoming shows are a must-see. Whether you are a longtime fan or discovering the family’s music for the first time, a Nelson concert in New Jersey is a journey through three generations of American music and culture.
Fans can learn more about upcoming performances and plan to attend events at The Nelsons on Explore New Jersey.
Why New Jersey Fans Matter
New Jersey has always embraced the Nelson family, from the Ozzie and Harriet days to Ricky Nelson’s rise as a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer. Today, local fans get to celebrate this legacy live, enjoying a blend of nostalgia and modern rock excellence. The state’s music venues, from theaters in smaller towns to larger performing arts centers, provide the perfect backdrop for experiencing the Nelson family’s unique blend of pop culture, rock, and history.
Whether performing in intimate theaters or larger venues, Matthew and Gunnar continue to connect with audiences, keeping their family’s music alive and relevant for new generations. Their performances are as much a tribute to their roots as they are a showcase of enduring talent and stagecraft.
A Night of Nelsons
Attending a Nelson concert in New Jersey is more than just a musical event—it’s an immersive experience. Fans enjoy:
- Classic Ricky Nelson hits that defined a generation
- Signature 90s Nelson tracks that brought the band to fame
- Multi-generational stories and anecdotes that connect the audience to the family’s rich history
- Engaging performances by Matthew and Gunnar that highlight their musicianship and stage presence
For New Jersey audiences, these shows serve as a reminder that the state has long been a nurturing ground for musical talent and entertainment pioneers.
From Jersey City to Teaneck, from Ridgefield Park to the concert halls of Carteret and Newton, the Nelson family’s story is inseparable from the Garden State. Matthew and Gunnar Nelson carry forward a legacy that blends rock, pop, and family tradition, ensuring that the Nelson name continues to resonate with fans both old and new.
Experience this iconic musical journey and celebrate a true New Jersey legacy by attending an upcoming Nelson concert. Find dates and details at The Nelsons on Explore New Jersey
