The top 5 concerts you need to see in NJ this summer

One of the great things about living in Jersey is that if you like music and going to concerts, there is something for everyone.

I recently made a list of all the shows I’ve seen, and I was struck by the realization that many of the bands I’ve enjoyed over the years are now embarking on farewell tours.

I intentionally left Bon Jovi, Bruce, and Billy off the list. These are always shows that you must see.

When you get to see these acts, don’t expect the same show you saw 20, 30 or 40 years ago.

Just enjoy the fact that you can still enjoy these guys. It’s like hanging out with friends from our youth and just enjoying the company.

Rolling Stones: Hackney Diamonds tour ’24 June 11 Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia (May 23/26 MetLife)

Mick Jagger turns 81 this summer and he’s still making ends meet. One of the best rock bands of all time. It’s more than a concert. It’s an event.

P!nk’s Summer Carnival Tour (with Sheryl Crow) August 18 Lincoln Financial Field (October 3 MetLife East)

Even P!nk has matured over the years.

Call her show a carnival, is perfect. Any time you can combine music, singing and trapeze (yes, trapeze) it’s worth a look.

Barefoot music festival June 20-23 Wildwood Luke Bryan, Keith Urban, Kane Brown, Brett Michaels, The Beach Boys and more…

If you’ve never been to a country festival, you’re missing out.

Fun in the sun with great music and a cool atmosphere.

Since this is Wildwood, the influx of people can be challenging to navigate. Plan these in advance.

Doobie Brothers and Steve Winwood August 6, PNC Arts Center

This band still sounds great. Simplicity of rock ‘n’ roll. No gimmicks. They haven’t announced any plans to stop, but we may not have many opportunities to see them anymore.

Pretty much every show in the casinos in Atlantic City

If you’ve never been to a concert in the casinos, you’re really missing out.

I’ve been to several, each of them, and loved them.

They perform a wide range of acts that appeal to different people’s tastes. One of the bonuses of attending shows at AC is the seating.

Not a bad place in the house. The capacity is smaller than that of the other larger locations in our region. This means that you will see some big names in an intimate setting.