This Is My New Jersey

When it comes to the “Jersey Sound,” there are few that stand out as much as John Lyon. Most of us known him as “Southside Johnny.”

A staple of Jersey pride for 50 years, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes’ shows are legendary. He has toured the world. Johnny and Steven Van Zandt formed the Asbury Jukes 50 years ago at The Stone Pony and helped develop what became known as the “Sound of Asbury Park.”

And now, at age 76, Johnny has played his last gig.

“After a hugely successful 50-year run with his band Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, touring non-stop throughout the U.S and overseas, ‘Southside Johnny’ Lyon has made the decision to retire from touring in order to manage ongoing health issues.” ~Facebook post

According to NJArts, Johnny left the stage early into his gig on December 14th at the Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia. The Asbury Jukes continued the show sans Johnny. His New Year’s show at the Count Basie Center was cancelled, as well as his already scheduled 2025 shows.

After the announcement was made on Facebook, fans flocked to the band’s page to share their gratitude for all the great music and wish him well with his health issues.

As much as we all do not want to see the “Grandfather of the Jersey Sound,” hang it up, I’m sure 50 years of touring has taken a toll. He is certainly deserving of a long and happy retirement.

So thank you Johnny and the Jukes. We’ll make sure we keep “havin’ a party.”