There are few traditions along the Jersey Shore that capture the spirit of summer quite like Songwriters on the Beach. For more than two decades, this beloved concert series has transformed an ordinary stretch of sand into one of New Jersey’s most unique live music destinations, bringing together nationally recognized artists, emerging regional talent, local communities, and visitors from across the state for evenings defined by great songs, ocean breezes, and authentic musical connection.
Produced annually by Brookdale Public Radio’s 90.5 The Night, Songwriters on the Beach has become one of the Garden State’s most anticipated summer events since its launch in 2005. What began as an intimate celebration of singer-songwriters has evolved into a signature cultural experience that reflects everything New Jersey does best: supporting independent music, showcasing local talent, and creating community-centered events that are accessible to everyone.
The 2026 edition continues that tradition with another remarkable lineup of performers representing some of the most exciting voices in contemporary rock, Americana, indie, folk, soul, alternative music, and singer-songwriter storytelling. Every Thursday evening from July through August, audiences will once again gather on Newark Avenue Beach in Bradley Beach to experience live performances against one of the most beautiful backdrops in the state.
Unlike traditional concert venues, Songwriters on the Beach removes nearly every barrier between artist and audience. There are no reserved seats, no VIP sections, and no elaborate productions separating performers from fans. Instead, concertgoers arrive with beach chairs, blankets, coolers, and family members in tow, settling into the sand as the sun begins its descent over the Atlantic Ocean.
The atmosphere has become part of the event’s enduring appeal.
Children play along the shoreline while music fills the air. Friends reconnect after long workweeks. Families introduce younger generations to live music. Longtime fans discover new artists while newcomers experience one of the Shore’s most welcoming cultural traditions. The result is a uniquely New Jersey experience where the focus remains squarely on the songs and the shared enjoyment of live performance.
The current home of the series in Bradley Beach represents the latest chapter in a history that has seen the event evolve while maintaining its original mission. The program began in Red Bank before spending many memorable years along the Belmar boardwalk. Its move to Newark Avenue Beach has allowed the series to continue growing while preserving the intimate environment that has defined it from the beginning.
One of the reasons the concert series has remained successful for so many years is its commitment to pairing established touring artists with emerging regional performers. These carefully curated bills expose audiences to new music while simultaneously highlighting the strength and diversity of New Jersey’s independent music community.
The 2026 season begins on July 9 with a compelling pairing that immediately establishes the eclectic nature of this year’s lineup. Brooklyn-based collective ISTA brings its genre-defying blend of psychedelic rock, groove-driven rhythms, and vintage-inspired energy to the beach stage. Their expansive sound and dynamic live performances have earned them a growing reputation throughout New York City’s independent music scene. Sharing the bill is Asbury Park’s own Yawn Mower, one of the Shore’s most celebrated alternative rock exports. Known for combining fuzzed-out indie rock, sharp songwriting, and a healthy dose of humor, the band continues to build a devoted following throughout the Northeast.
The following week, July 16, welcomes one of New Jersey’s most accomplished musical ambassadors. Nicole Atkins returns to her home state after building a nationally respected career that has taken her from Neptune City to stages across the world. Her distinctive blend of soul, psychedelic pop, orchestral rock, and powerful vocal performances has established her as one of the most unique voices to emerge from the Garden State in recent decades. Joining her is Cory Blair, whose growing reputation throughout the Asbury Park music community continues to attract attention. Blair’s music blends indie rock, synth-pop, and personal storytelling into a style that feels simultaneously modern and timeless.
July 23 introduces audiences to Detroit’s fast-rising Mac Saturn. Combining classic rock swagger, soulful vocals, infectious hooks, and modern energy, the band represents a new generation of artists drawing inspiration from rock’s golden eras while creating something distinctly contemporary. Their appearance promises one of the season’s most energetic performances. Sharing the evening is Asbury Park’s Mirror Mirror, whose atmospheric songwriting and evolving sound continue to make them one of the Shore’s most intriguing emerging acts.
As the calendar turns toward August, the series continues to showcase its impressive range. Brooklyn’s Endearments arrive on July 30 with a lush sound that blends dream-pop textures, alternative rock dynamics, and emotionally resonant songwriting. Their critically praised debut album has positioned them as one of the most exciting new names in independent music. Joining them are Asbury Park favorites The Tide Bends, whose mix of Brit-rock influences, shoegaze atmospherics, and melodic alternative songwriting has made them a fixture throughout New Jersey’s live music scene.
August 6 may very well become one of the most talked-about nights of the summer. Philadelphia’s explosive SNACKTIME brings its high-energy fusion of funk, soul, brass-band power, hip-hop influences, and party-starting enthusiasm to Bradley Beach. Their rise from impromptu public performances to major festival stages represents one of the region’s great recent success stories. Supporting the evening is New Jersey’s own Ron Santee, whose songwriting draws from Americana, garage rock, folk traditions, and soulful storytelling rooted deeply in the Pine Barrens and South Jersey culture.
The season’s final stretch showcases some of the most respected singer-songwriters on the East Coast. On August 13, audiences will be treated to an evening of masterful songwriting as Jeffrey Gaines takes the stage. Known for his extraordinary voice, emotional performances, and decades-long touring career, Gaines remains one of the most respected acoustic performers in American music. Joining him is actress and musician Jill Hennessy, whose acclaimed work in television has been matched by an equally compelling commitment to songwriting and Americana music. Together, they promise one of the series’ most intimate and memorable evenings.
The season concludes on August 20 with a fitting finale featuring Keith Roth and Bonny. Roth, widely recognized by rock fans through his work on SiriusXM’s Hair Nation and Ozzy’s Boneyard, brings decades of experience as a musician, broadcaster, songwriter, and performer. His acoustic performances reveal a deeply personal side of an artist whose career has long been associated with rock and roll. Bonny provides the perfect complement, delivering thoughtful songwriting and melodic storytelling that captures the essence of what Songwriters on the Beach has always celebrated.
Beyond the individual performances, Songwriters on the Beach represents something increasingly rare in today’s entertainment landscape. It remains entirely free to attend. At a time when ticket prices continue to rise across the live music industry, this series remains accessible to everyone. Community support, sponsorships, local partnerships, and a shared belief in the importance of public arts programming have allowed the event to thrive while preserving its mission.
That accessibility has helped make the concert series a genuine cultural institution. For many families, attending Songwriters on the Beach has become an annual tradition passed from one generation to the next. For artists, it offers a rare opportunity to perform in an environment where audiences arrive ready to listen, engage, and discover. For Bradley Beach, it represents a showcase of the town’s vibrant community spirit and its connection to New Jersey’s rich musical heritage.
As another summer arrives along the Jersey Shore, Songwriters on the Beach once again demonstrates why it remains one of New Jersey’s most beloved seasonal events. Combining nationally recognized performers, emerging regional talent, breathtaking oceanfront scenery, and a commitment to community, the series continues to provide exactly what live music should offer: connection, discovery, inspiration, and unforgettable memories.
Every Thursday evening from July 9 through August 20, the beach becomes a stage, the audience becomes a community, and the soundtrack of another Jersey summer unfolds one song at a time.
