Arts & Entertainment
Tequila Rose Provides a Taste of Country Rock
Show was the second in the outdoor summer concert series held at the East Brunswick Community Arts Center
It was a warm, summer evening of country rock as the cover band Tequila Rose took the stage at East Brunswick’s Cultural Arts Center on Saturday. The free show drew a crowd of approximately 300 to 350 locals and was the second of the summer concert series hosted by the Township Division of Recreation and Community Services.
“We are mainly a modern country band, but we do a lot of older country,” said frontman Rick Newport prior to the show. “And we also mix in some southern rock and quite a bit of rock ‘n roll when we’re not doing a ‘country’ gig, which is what we’re doing tonight.”
Newport and bass player Gary Holly are original members of Tequila Rose, which began 10 years ago in Hillsborough. The band now includes John Brite on vocals and lead guitar, and drummer Mike Smith. All are accomplished musicians with years of experience – not to mention their own cowboy hats.
Find out what's happening in East Brunswickwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The Tequila Rose setlist covers a wide range of modern classics like Dwight Yoakam and Willie Nelson to newer favorites like Blake Shelton and Billy Currington. An upbeat, Bo Diddley twist on Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire” had the crowd dancing and singing.
When asked what his personal favorite song of the set is, Newport said “Chicken Fried” by the Zach Brown Band. “That’s one of my favorites. Everyone likes it and likes to sing along, and it’s a lot of fun,” he said.
Find out what's happening in East Brunswickwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
For more information on Tequila Rose, including upcoming shows, visit the band on the web at http://tequilaroseband.com.
After introducing the band, Mayor David Stahl enjoyed the show from his lawn chair. He encourages East Brunswick residents to check out the free concerts planned for the rest of July.
“It's a great way to spend time with the family and with other members of the community. So come out to the Community Arts Ampitheater – have a great time,” said Stahl.
According to Township Recreation Supervisor Jeffrey Litt, upcoming shows include a “Wonderful Wednesday” concert on July 13, starring Yosi, an act for young children and families. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. with a pre-show featuring Bonky the Clown. On July 23 at 7 p.m., New Jersey’s Most Wanted Rock ‘n Roll Party Band will take the stage. Finally, on Saturday July 30, the doo-wop group “Sidewalk Serenade” will entertain an audience for a show that also begins at 7 p.m.
The is located at 721 Cranbury Road.
