MPPF Set Times:
5:00-5:25- Joybomb
5:40- 6:10- Your Academy
6:25- 7:00- Sonny Wilsons
7:30-9:00- The Smithereens
About The Smithereens:
Since their formation in Carteret, New Jersey in 1980, The Smithereens have earned a reputation as one of America’s most enduring rock bands. Founding members Pat DiNizio (vocals/guitar), Jim Babjak (guitar/vocals), Mike Mesaros (bass/vocals), and Dennis Diken (drums/vocals) built a distinctive sound rooted in the melodic punch of the British Invasion, fused with the raw energy of American garage rock. The result was a catalog of timeless songs that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
The band’s breakthrough came with the 1986 release of Especially for You, featuring the modern rock classics “Blood and Roses” and “Behind the Wall of Sleep.” Critical acclaim and radio success soon followed with Green Thoughts (1988) and 11 (1989), albums that delivered charting singles including “Only a Memory,” “A Girl Like You,” and “Too Much Passion.” Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, The Smithereens became fixtures on MTV, college radio, and mainstream rock stations, while touring extensively with artists such as Tom Petty, Lou Reed, and The Pretenders.
Celebrated for their muscular live performances, The Smithereens have always stayed true to their roots while expanding their reach. Their body of work includes not only original material but also acclaimed tributes to their musical heroes, including full-length homages to The Beatles and The Who, affirming their place in the lineage of classic rock.
Following the passing of frontman Pat DiNizio in 2017, Babjak, Mesaros, and Diken made the decision to honor his memory by continuing to perform and record. Joined by guest vocalists such as Robin Wilson (Gin Blossoms), John Cowsill (from the Cowsills & Beach Boys) and Marshall Crenshaw, the band continues to bring their celebrated songs to both longtime fans and new generations. The band’s latest album is THE LOST ALBUM featuring previously unreleased sessions with Pat DiNizio.
Today, The Smithereens stand as a vital, influential force in American rock—defined by ringing guitars, unforgettable hooks, and a spirit of resilience that ensures their music remains as powerful and relevant as ever.
Artist Socials:
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | SPOTIFY | YOUTUBE | APPLE MUSIC
About The Sonny Wilsons:
The Sonny Wilsons is the power pop project of Adam Yancey (Solo artist, Afterglow, The Chain Hopsons, The Becky’s) and Allen Couch (East Link).
Adam Yancey, who gigged his way through flight school is, and this is a direct quote, “The only idiot in the world that got into the music business for the money. And the only idiot, in the history of idiots, which is a long list, who had to fall back on a music career to become an airline pilot!”
Multi-instrumentalist Allen Couch's love of music began when he stumbled upon, and subsequently appropriated, his parent's 8-track copy of Abbey Road. Yep, he's that old…. Thus began a lifelong appreciation for a well structured pop harmony.
They are joined by singer-songwriter-guitarist Danny McGreger (Lately David), singer-guitarist Chris Swenson (The Devil Brothers, David Brookings Band, Victor & The Spoils, Megawhat, Black Oak Arkansas) and bassist Johnny Norris (Crash Into June, Your Academy). The Sonny Wilsons’ first album, recorded at Ardent and High/Low studios with Jon Auer (Posies, Big Star) producing, will be released late summer of 2025.
Artist Socials:
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | BANDCAMP | SPOTIFY | APPLE MUSIC
Know Before You Go:
Food Trucks: BBQX | Eat Good Groceries | Halinkas | Hot & Heavy Dogs | Mempops
Picnic baskets, coolers, beverages, blankets, and lawn chairs are always welcome. We also offer food and beverage for sale in the Autozone Food and Beverage Concourse. Dogs on a leash are welcome in designated areas. Overton Park Shell is a nonsmoking facility.
Sponsored By:
