Light of Day Throws an Epic Birthday Bash at The Count Basie
This past Saturday, The Count Basie Center for the Arts once again played host to the Light of Day WinterFest’s Main Event. Also known as “Bob’s Birthday Bash”, the show celebrates LOD founder Bob Benjamin while raising money and awareness for their continuing quest to end Parkinson’s disease and its related illnesses ALS and PSP within our lifetime. And this year’s event was once again sold out!
The lineup was stacked with festival regulars like Willie Nile, Joe D’Urso and Stone Caravan, Dramarama, Fantastic Cat, Williams Honor, John Rzeznik of The Goo Goo Dolls, and the band that headlined the very first official LOD show, Joe Grushecky and the Houserockers. Anthony D'Amato, aka Remember Jones, was the emcee for the night and performed between some of the sets. There were also special guests such as Will Dailey, Low Cut Connie, Jill Hennessey, and Gary U.S. Bonds. And yes, Bruce Springsteen showed up too.
Freehold’s favorite son first hit the stage with Willie Nile, and then returned to play with the Houserockers just as he did 26 years ago at The Stone Pony. It was an amazing set which included a powerful performance of “Promised Land”. The stage then filled up with all of the night’s performers for a resounding rendition of “Light of Day” and of course, “Happy Birthday to You” for Bob. The night wrapped with “Thunder Road”, and it seemed like every voice in the theater was singing together. I doubt I’ll ever experience that song played live the same way again, and it will easily remain one of my favorite musical moments.
If you would like to help the foundation’s quest, please donate here.
Coverage from January 17, 2026 at The Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, NJ.
All photos are © Michael Campanile Photography and cannot be used without permission.
