Best of New Jersey Songs

The Garden State’s Groove: A History of New Jersey Music

New Jersey, often overlooked in the shadow of its big-city neighbors, boasts a rich and diverse musical history, far from just Bruce Springsteen. From soulful crooners to hardcore punks, the Garden State has nurtured a vibrant musical landscape, brimming with unique voices and funky rhythms.

From Doo Wop to Disco

The early days of New Jersey music saw the rise of doo-wop, a genre deeply rooted in the state’s urban communities. The Four Freshman from Newark, with their smooth harmonies, became a national sensation in the 50s, even catching the ear of the Queen herself. The Crests from Paterson, meanwhile, gave us the iconic “16 Candles,” a song that would become a staple of any prom night.

This period also saw the birth of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, who took doo-wop to new heights with their sophisticated arrangements and pop sensibility. Who could forget the infectious rhythm of “Sherry” or the bittersweet longing of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”? The group’s success brought them international acclaim, showcasing New Jersey’s musical talent to the world.

As the 70s rolled in, New Jersey embraced the disco craze. The Trammps, from Philadelphia but often associated with New Jersey due to their early days in the state, gave us the electrifying “Disco Inferno,” a track that set dance floors ablaze across the globe.

Punk, Metal, and the Jersey Sound

The late 70s saw the emergence of punk rock, with New Jersey becoming a hotbed for the genre’s raw energy and rebellious spirit. The Misfits, from Lodi, became a symbol of the scene, their horror-punk aesthetic and catchy hooks influencing countless bands.

Meanwhile, The Bouncing Souls, hailing from Asbury Park, brought a unique blend of pop-punk and ska to the forefront, earning their place as a local favorite.

As the 80s progressed, heavy metal found its voice in New Jersey, with bands like Bon Jovi, from Sayreville, taking the world by storm. Their melodic rock anthems captivated millions, forever establishing New Jersey’s place in the metal pantheon.

The Legacy of the Boss and Beyond

No discussion of New Jersey music is complete without mentioning Bruce Springsteen, the “Boss” himself. Born in Freehold, Springsteen’s powerful lyrics and gritty sound resonated with a generation, capturing the essence of blue-collar life and working-class dreams.

While Springsteen’s shadow looms large, the state has produced a plethora of other talented musicians. The Smithereens, from New Brunswick, blended power pop with punk influences, delivering catchy tunes that resonated with indie music lovers.

The Feelies, from Hoboken, took a more experimental approach, blending elements of punk, pop, and psychedelic rock, creating a unique sound that influenced later indie bands.

Funny Facts:

The Misfits’ lead singer, Glenn Danzig, famously claimed that the band’s name was inspired by a group of “Misfit Toys” he had seen on a television show.
Bon Jovi frontman Jon Bon Jovi’s real name is actually John Francis Bongiovi, Jr. – not quite as rock and roll, but still a classic New Jersey name.
The Four Seasons were so popular in the early 60s that they had their own animated cartoon series, “The Four Seasons Go!”

From doo-wop to punk, from disco to metal, New Jersey has left an undeniable mark on the music world. As its musical history continues to unfold, one thing is certain: the Garden State will continue to surprise and inspire with its diverse and dynamic sound.