Asbury Park’s iconic music venue, The Stone Pony, is commemorating its 50th anniversary in 2025, marking half a century of unforgettable performances, cultural impact, and a deep-rooted connection to the heart of New Jersey’s music scene. From its humble beginnings in 1974 to its status as a legendary hotspot for both emerging and established artists, the Pony has been a cornerstone of live music and community spirit.
🕺 A Night to Remember: The 50th Anniversary Kickoff
The festivities began on February 8, 2025, with a special “Cheers to 50” event featuring a DJ set by the original house DJ, Lee Mrowicki. This free-admission celebration welcomed fans and artists alike to dance, reminisce, and honor the venue’s rich history. The evening was highlighted by the City of Asbury Park proclaiming February 8 as “Stone Pony Day,” a testament to the venue’s enduring influence on the local and national music landscape. The Stone Pony -+1The Stone Pony -+1asburyparkreporter.com+1The Stone Pony -+1
📚 Preserving the Legacy: “Legendary” by Lee Mrowicki
In conjunction with the anniversary celebrations, Lee Mrowicki, affectionately known as “DJ Lee,” has released an audiobook titled Legendary: The History of The Stone Pony 1974–1991 and the People Who Made It So. This compelling narrative offers an insider’s perspective on the early days of the club, sharing stories of the artists, staff, and fans who contributed to its rise as a musical mecca. Mrowicki’s firsthand accounts provide a unique glimpse into the vibrant atmosphere that defined the Pony during its formative years.
🎤 Reflecting on Five Decades of Music
Throughout the year, The Stone Pony has hosted a series of events to celebrate its 50th anniversary. In February, the venue presented a panel discussion titled “Spotlighting 50 Legendary Years of Music Memories,” featuring founder Jack Roig, legendary area musicians, concert promoters, music writers, and other noteworthy members of the music community. This event offered intimate stories and memories from the past 50 years, shedding light on the club’s pivotal role in shaping the music scene. The Stone Pony -+1The Stone Pony -+1
The anniversary celebrations continued with performances by The Parlor Mob, a reunion of the original house DJ, and a special show by Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, who have been integral to The Stone Pony’s narrative. These events underscored the deep connections between the venue and the artists who have graced its stage. The Stone Pony -+1Wikipedia+1
🏆 Honoring the Impact
The Stone Pony’s influence extends beyond its walls. The venue has been instrumental in launching the careers of numerous artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi, and Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. Its legacy is celebrated not only through music but also through community engagement and cultural contributions. The 50th anniversary serves as a reminder of the venue’s enduring impact on the music industry and its role in fostering a vibrant artistic community. Wikipedia
🎉 Looking Ahead
As The Stone Pony continues to celebrate its 50th year, fans can look forward to more events, performances, and opportunities to engage with the venue’s rich history. The anniversary celebrations are a testament to the enduring spirit of live music and the lasting connections formed within the walls of The Stone Pony.The Stone Pony –
For more information on upcoming events and to purchase the Legendary audiobook, visit The Stone Pony’s official website.
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