On September 6, 2025, the legendary funk and soul band Tower of Power lit up the stage at the Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center (Carteret PAC), delivering a performance that had the audience on their feet from the opening note to the final encore. Known for their powerhouse horn section, infectious grooves, and soulful vocals, the band once again proved why they remain one of the most enduring live acts in American music.
The evening began with the fitting opener “We Came to Play,” a declaration of intent that set the tone for the night. Lead vocalist Jordan John immediately connected with the crowd, asking, “New Jersey, how do you like your soul?” The packed house roared back, and from that moment forward, the Carteret PAC was transformed into a high-energy dance hall.
The setlist was a balance of greatest hits and deeper cuts, each one delivered with the tight precision and freewheeling energy that has defined Tower of Power since their beginnings in Oakland more than five decades ago. Fan favorites like “You Ought to Be Havin’ Fun,” “So Very Hard to Go,” and “You’re Still a Young Man” showcased the group’s signature blend of heartfelt ballads and upbeat funk. When the unmistakable bassline of “What Is Hip?” kicked in, the crowd erupted, moving to every beat while the horn section blasted with unmatched power.
Midway through the night, the band dug into “Only So Much Oil in the Ground,” a track that remains strikingly relevant decades after its release. Tom E. Politzer’s soaring saxophone solo and Mike Jerel’s organ work gave the song fresh life, while the audience responded with cheers that filled the venue. Another standout was “Don’t Change Horses (in the Middle of a Stream),” where Jordan John strapped on a guitar and stretched the coda into a soulful jam that highlighted his vocal range and charisma.
The instrumental “Squib Cakes” provided one of the most electrifying moments of the show. Each musician took a turn in the spotlight, with guitarist Jerry Cortez, trumpeter Adolfo Acosta, and saxophonist Tom Politzer trading fiery solos. But it was Mike Jerel’s organ solo, accompanied only by drummer Pete Antunes, that drew a standing ovation. The interplay between the organ and drums built a tension and release that showcased the kind of musicianship few bands can match.
The band also paid homage to their roots with a James Brown medley that included “It’s a New Day,” “Mother Popcorn,” “There It Is,” and “I Got the Feelin’.” The medley reminded everyone in attendance that Tower of Power doesn’t just play funk — they embody it. The crowd, made up of longtime fans and first-timers alike, responded with relentless energy, clapping, dancing, and singing along to every note.
Audience reaction was as much a part of the night as the performance itself. Even older concertgoers couldn’t resist getting out of their seats as the band’s rhythm section drove each number with irresistible momentum. Reviews from those in attendance echoed the same sentiment: the show was powerful, polished, and deeply satisfying. Many noted that the group, despite decades of touring, continues to sound as fresh and vital as ever.
The venue itself played a key role in the evening’s success. The Carteret PAC has quickly established a reputation for excellent acoustics, comfortable seating, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal setting for a band of Tower of Power’s caliber. The sound was crisp and balanced, ensuring every note of the horn section and every beat of the drums landed with impact.
For me personally, Tower of Power has long carried a special place in my concert history. My very first New Year’s Eve show was back in 1982, when the Tower of Power horns joined the Grateful Dead and Etta James at the Oakland Auditorium. That third set of the night was unforgettable, filled with soul and R&B energy that reshaped the Dead’s sound for one magical evening. Hearing them again in New Jersey more than four decades later brought it all full circle, a reminder of just how enduring their music truly is.
Today, Tower of Power’s influence reaches beyond the stage. The spirit of their music continues to inspire fans and musicians alike, and it lives on every Friday night through the What Is Hip?! radio show on JamFest Radio, a weekly broadcast that keeps funk and soul at the center of the conversation.
With concerts like this, New Jersey continues to prove itself as a hub for world-class live music experiences. The state’s venues, both large and intimate, provide stages where legendary acts can deliver unforgettable performances while connecting with audiences in meaningful ways. For fans looking to stay connected to upcoming performances, local concerts, and music culture, the Explore New Jersey music section is a valuable resource.
Tower of Power’s appearance at the Carteret PAC was more than a concert — it was a celebration of funk, soul, and the enduring power of live music. Their performance reminded audiences that while trends may come and go, great music never loses its impact. New Jersey fans left the venue buzzing, already talking about the next time the band returns to the Garden State.
