By Gary Wien
originally published: 10/20/2025

BlowUpRadio.com is in the midst of its annual Banding Together benefit for the Spondylitis Association of America with a webathon until October 22nd featuring live performances by Jersey artists.  It's also a very special anniversary for the online radio station that was the first to be built around New Jersey artists. Lazlo has been doing this for 25 years now! And the local music community wanted to pay tribute to him and the station.

I've known Lazlo since the beginning of the century.  Nobody supports the Jersey music community like he does.  I ran an online radio station for over a decade and I know about the financial costs and the amount of time it takes to run one.  This isn’t a business for him, it’s a hobby. It’s crazy, but he was originally downplaying the 25th anniversary.  Think about it for a moment - how many websites do you know have been around for 25 years, much less online radio stations?

It’s an impressive anniversary and one that should be recognized.  I reached out to some people and dozens of artists from the New Jersey music community have offered tributes to Laz here. 

Lazlo is such a part of the Jersey music scene that he actually got married at the Stone Pony!  He’s the first person I thought of to write the foreword for my book on the top Jersey albums from 2001-2010. And I’m grateful that he’s been writing a column for New Jersey Stage since 2022.

I also respect him for his annual benefit.  His wife suffers from Spondylitis and the benefit is a very nice way of supporting her, helping to raise awareness, and raise funds to find a cure.  As someone who knows a little about invisible diseases, that support from a spouse is so important.

---

Promote your shows at New Jersey Stage! Click here for info

---

Spondylitis is a genetic rheumatoid arthritis that causes fusion of the bone, inflammation and great pain. Lazlo’s wife is one of the estimated 1 in 200 Americans who suffer from it.  I hope you take a moment and donate if you can.  Donations of $20 or more receive the “Big Box Of Music” - 233 songs that have been played on his online station over the last 25 years. Click here to donate and click here to listen to the broadcast. As you can see from the songs found here, it's full of great tunes including live takes and demo tracks.

In addition to this annual benefit, Lazlo has never been afraid to put his name out there behind causes he supports.  His Rock Against Hate compilation albums have benefited LGBTQ+ non-profit organizations like Trevor Project, No More Dysphoria, Kids in Need of Defense (KIND), and Planned Parenthood. He has done benefits for National Foundation of Transplants, Hurricane Sandy relief, inspired a covers album to help raise funds for mental health expenses of an artist, and even held a yard sale to raise money for an artist’s medical expenses. These are only a few of the ways he’s connected Jersey Artists with the greater world and I admire the hell out him for doing these things.

In my opinion, Lazlo is the thread that connects the NJ music community.  Congrats on 25 years of BlowUpRadio and here’s to 25 more!

DIEGO ALLESSANDRO - Banding Together is a tradition in our NJ music scene and we'll keep this thing running as long as we can for Lazlo, his family and everyone who suffers from this terrible disease. For everything he does for us NJ artists, we'll always be here to help.

CHRISTIAN BEACH - Lazlo, you are a valiant knight fighting for the local artist, Battling your way through mainstream mediocrity and apathy, with Blow Up Radio your weapon of choice, giving local artists a voice.  Your dedication is unparalleled, not to mention your passion for charitable causes and concern for social issues.

Lazlo, thank you for all of your support through the years.  Some of my most memorable performing moments were the Blow Up Radio shows at Buddy’s in Parlin, on air interviews, Spondylitis benefits, and hanging with you and other artists.

MICHAEL BRETT - It’s incredible that Lazlo is celebrating his 25th anniversary of BlowUpRadio. Congrats to him. He is honestly one of the biggest supporters of indie musicians, particularly those from central NJ, including a musician with major ADHD like myself. Thanks for all you do, Lazlo.

---

JON CASPI - Shortly after I moved back to NJ, Lazlo reached out and introduced himself to me. He had read that I had a new album in the works and invited me to do an interview. That was 25 years ago, maybe more, and since then, I have learned that this is who Lazlo is. He's on top of the scene, very very supportive of local artists, and quite generous with his time. Few have had his longevity and are as beloved by the local scene. It's very difficult to run your own online station and also do annual benefits, which he has done for the Spondylitis Association of America for years. I am in awe of his tenacity and endurance, and of course his warmth, support and love of music. He's one of a kind!

MICK CHORBA - I am so inspired by Lazlo. Nobody is more dedicated or more passionate about NJ music.   He’s always got something going on. I honestly don’t know how he does it, but I’m glad he does.   He’s had such a positive impact on me and so many other local musicians.  Not sure he even realizes it. Thanks Lazlo! -Mick Chorba / The Successful Failures / Dipsomaniacs

DANNY COLEMAN - When I first began "Rock On Radio" and I was searching for possible outlets and/or like minded people, I fortunately happened upon Lazlo and "BlowUpRadio" which coincided with my relationship with New Jersey Stage. Lazlo's dedication to the independent artists of this state as well as his continuous support of charities with his annual webathon are beyond fantastic. I, for one, can not say enough great things about Lazlo and "BlowUpRadio" so I'll just leave it at this: Congratulations on 25 years of "BlowUpRadio" and doing what you do for all of us; as a fellow radio personality, I appreciate and respect your contributions, past, present and future.

Rock on my friend and here is to another 25 years!”

JAMES DALTON - Lazlo has always been a great friend to local, independent musicians, but more importantly, he’s been an incredible supporter of mine.

Over the years, he’s always taking the time to check with my new releases and add them to his playlist.

Even more amazing, nearly 20 years ago, when my voice was going through some major issues and surgery on those vocal chords were the only answer, he was open to a collaboration with me, an EP of unreleased music, a free download exclusive to Blow Up Radio. During that period, before, and after the surgery, I was not going to be able to speak or even perform for months, and this album was away to not only feel creative during that period but to feel like I was still a musician, an active part of the local music community.

Lazlo did that for me while I was down and I will always owe him for that. I’m just one person, I’m sure there are many more people like me with similar stories. He’s too good for the world.

JASON DIDNER - Congratulations Lazlo on 25 years of consistent, badass DIY, roll with the punches, keep showing up, do what you love, don’t worry about the numbers, Jersey (and beyond) radio goodness!

DW DUNPHY - For the past - I don't know how many - Lazlo has been putting himself out there with his efforts to promote important causes and affirm the things he believes in. He strives to raise money for charities that very often don't get the sunlight or funding they need. And in some cases, these causes have been actively targeted because of the audacity to care for others. There's a lot to say about Lazlo the promoter of New Jersey rock music, but so much more about Lazlo, the guy living his beliefs in full, in an era where fewer will even try.

---

Promote your shows at New Jersey Stage! Click here for info

---

VAL EMMICH - Careful and enthusiastic attention is crucial to the budding artist still finding his voice and desperately seeking validation, a sense of connection, and the encouragement to carry on. For twenty five years, Lazlo has provided this invaluable service to independent artists in New Jersey and beyond. He has listened closely, passionately, intelligently, and tirelessly and made countless musicians and songwriters feel, if for but a moment, worthy.

NEIL FAIRMONT - Lazlo first saw me play 20 something years ago in jersey City and he has been a supporter of the music scene that I was involved in that entire time. People like Lazlo giving voices to small artists is why NJ has one of the best underground indie scenes in the world.

SEAN FAUST - Lazlo has been such a huge supporter of the New Jersey music scene. It's always an honor and a privilege to be a part of anything he does.

BRIAN KELLEY - On what Lazlo/BlowUpRadio means to me as a music artist: I remember in the days of old Twitter and maybe a year or two before I launched Ferocious Designs in 2021, I tweeted that I was thinking of recording and releasing music of my own after years of recording and playing with my friend Christian Beach. I don’t remember exactly what Lazlo tweeted in reply, but the gist was that he was looking forward to hearing what was coming from me. And, truth be told, without that little push from Lazlo, I may not have followed through with the plan.

On my Banding Together participation: I’m not a live performer by any stretch of the imagination. Heck, I’m barely a functional musician, to be honest. But the Spondylitis Association of America is such an important and personal cause for Lazlo that once a year since 2021, I step out of my comfort zone to do a Banding Together live set to show my appreciation for what Lazlo’s support has meant to my music project and to the New Jersey music community, in general.

PETE JAGER - Lazlo, congratulations on 25 years of dedication to keeping our ears filled with great music! I personally am inspired by your passion for sharing music and helping promote humanity in general, frankly...you have helped raise money and awareness for the Spondylitis Association of America via the annual Banding Together event...you have curated 8 volumes of "Rock Against Hate" benefitting organizations such as Planned Parenthood, Trevor Project, Kids In Need of Defense, and No More Dysphoria...and in these actions, you have built a community concerned with the aforementioned humanity. Also, I just like talking music with you. You're a real one, my friend. Thanks, Lazlo!

DON LEE - There are few people I know that truly support and nourish local music talent as much as Lazlo does.

Lazlo has supported my music and bands since his days at WDHA and has consistently continued to do so with his founding of BlowUp Radio - which primarily caters to New Jersey independent music. It’s hard being heard as an independent artist but Lazlo will always be there to help. And so it makes total sense that so many musicians that he has helped are enthusiastically helping him in his fundraising efforts to help find a cure for Spondylitis, a disease that is overlooked but many fundraising drives but now because of his efforts many of us are aware.

I’d also like to say that in these times when many are declaring that the music scene of local artists is dead, it is very much alive on the internet with stations like BlowUp Radio. Thanks so much Lazlo for all of your decades of support!

BOBBY MAHONEY - Lazlo has been a huge supporter of local music for years, and I’m grateful for him and the station! It’s always a pleasure to visit Lazlo and hang at the studio- he always asks insightful questions and he cares! We all appreciate him and his contribution to the NJ Music Scene.

BOB MAKIN - Laz is a New Jersey treasure without whom the scene wouldn’t be as good as it is. To think that he makes the time to annually raise funds for a very special cause that also supports and exposes the scene is awesome! God bless Lazlo and BlowUpRadio.com on their important anniversary! — Bob Makin, producer of Makin Waves since 1988

RENEE MASKIN - Lazlo is true blue, an ardent friend of the music community here in New Jersey and all around good guy. His attentiveness to the music scene is unwavering and so much appreciated by songwriters like me. And it's beautiful to see how many NJ musicians in turn show up to play his webathon or contribute a song to his spondylitis compilations. It always feels good to give back every year in that way for all the support he gives us. Thank you Lazlo for all that you do, and Happy 25 Years!

JOSEPH ALTON MILLER - Lazlo has been a constant presence in New Jersey’s music scene long before I landed in Jersey back in 2009 — someone who genuinely listens and supports artists without any agenda other than supporting original music. BlowUpRadio.com has given countless songwriters and bands a place to be heard, long before streaming or social media made that easy. Twenty-five years of that kind of dedication is rare, and it’s meant the world to so many of us who make music here.

KEITH MONACCHIO - Talk about doing something for the sheer love of it.  That’s Lazlo.  There has been no one more dedicated to the local NJ music than he has been these last 25 years.

CHRIS ROCKWELL - Lazlo has been supportive of me since the early days of my career as an artist, and I couldn't be more grateful for him or for Blow Up Radio. When I started my magazine, we cross promoted. When I headlined the Stone Pony, he covered it and interviewed me. From playing my songs to just spreading the word about what I was doing for the past two decades, he's always been about two things: music and community.. I can't tell you how many people I've met and introduce myself to in this scene and they reply with, "Oh, Lazlo's told me about you."

MICHAEL ROSOL - Lazlo used to run a band exhibition at Buddies Bar. We found out about SO many new local bands from those shows that resulted in lifelong like Paul Rosevear and Mick Chorba and the Dipsomaniacs. Plus local bar prices for drinks. He expanded our knowledge of local bands and for that our lives were enriched!

DEENA SHOSHKES, THE CUCUMBERS - I am so grateful for Lazlo, he is the best!!! So openminded and encouraging. It’s so important to have outlets for your music and he provides that and has nurtured so many musicians and songwriters. I have been sending him my new music and quirky recordings for years. I have also sent many musician friends his way and they are delighted as well to find a home for their music. On top of all that, the tireless work he does creating compilation albums and webathons to raise money for great causes is so important and worthwhile. He brings all us musicians together and we feel like we’re doing good in some small way. Every little thing does matter. Thank you, Lazlo!!!!!

ALAN "SUCIA" SMITH,  THE PORCHISTAS - Lazlo and blowupradio are New Jersey institutions. I think every musician in NJ both big and small who has been grinding it out  for a long time understands how precious he is. It's hard to find platforms to consistently get your music out there and Lazlo makes it easy and has a built-in audience. And his commitment to spondylitis and the web-athon is inspiring. We try to be a part of the fundraiser every chance we get. we love that guy.

SONOFDOV - Lazlo encapsulates a dedication that you don't see and or feel anywhere else. A true musicologist with an appetites for championing his love of New Jersey independent music. I truly appreciate his friendship and consider him part of my musical team/journey throughout this many years.  Thank You Laz!

 

---

Promote your shows at New Jersey Stage! Click here for info

---

TONY TEDESCO - I can’t say enough about lazlo and his commitment to local music and, more importantly, to humanity in general.

Taking part in his benefits are something I’ve looked forward to for over twenty years.

Frankly, I don’t think I would have dug into songwriting like I did without Lazlo’s’ constant support early on.

JIM TESTA, JERSEY BEAT - I've known Lazlo for so long that I can't even remember when we met, but I did a show on BlowUpRadio.com for years, Lazlo and I jointly booked a folk series in Hoboken called "Folk You" for a decade, and I've been a longtime supporter (as well as a participant in his annual fundraisers for Spondylitis Ankylosis) for years and years. I was even at his wedding.  We are more than friends, we are brothers, and there is no one I admire more for his indefatigable and selfless support for local original music.  He's a hero,  a role model, and he's a mensch, and I hope on this anniversary he gets the thanks and accolades he deserves. Or at least a well-deserved pat on the back.

JAKE THISTLE - BlowUpRadio.com's 25th anniversary is a testament to Lazlo's unwavering commitment to supporting original music and local artists. I, like so many other Jersey songwriters, are incredibly grateful and honored to be a part of Banding Together and the BlowUpRadio community in general.

BRUCE TUNKEL - What can I say? Lazlo is an invaluable part of our New Jersey music scene. Incredibly dedicated to bringing NJ music to the people through the station, always working so hard for a number of great causes, and a hell of a nice guy to boot.

JOSHUA VAN NESS - Lazlo has  been a champion for all of struggling to let our voices heard.  His contributions to our music community are just as enormous as his heart.

THE WAG - Lazlo has been a huge supporter of local original music with blowupradio.com for 25 years! Not many people can keep something like that going for so long. It’s all due to his passion and love for original music. The Wag has been honored to be part of Lazlo’s Spondylitis benefits each year.

ANTHONY WALKER - There's been no greater champion of local music in New Jersey over the past 25 years than Lazlo at BlowUpRadio. In an industry where so much is short-lived, nothing lasts across the decades without tremendous effort and a rare passion. Like so many other local musicians, I've been fortunate to take part in many of Lazlo's shows and benefits over the years, and I've seen firsthand how deeply he cares — not only about connecting listeners with artists, but also about raising money and awareness for so many meaningful causes. That makes this anniversary a wonderful milestone, not just in a number of years, but in a collection of meaningful achievements that have made those years matter.

THE WILLIAMSBOY - Lazlo is the embodiment of Indy music rebel. He stands against the machine of traditional music radio. His love for independent music and the artists that create it, is beyond measure.

BRENT JOHNSON, THE CLYDES - Lazlo’s great not only because he highlights on all the wonderful music that comes out of Jersey but also because he’s unabashedly Jersey himself. Colorful, honest, enthusiastic about our underrated little state. So many of us are grateful he helps keep Jersey music loved and alive.

---

Gary Wien has been covering the arts since 2001 and has had work published with Jersey Arts, Upstage Magazine, Elmore Magazine, Princeton Magazine, Backstreets and other publications. He is a three-time winner of the Asbury Music Award for Top Music Journalist and the author of Beyond the Palace (the first book on the history of rock and roll in Asbury Park) and Are You Listening? The Top 100 Albums of 2001-2010 by New Jersey Artists. In addition, he runs New Jersey Stage and the online radio station The Penguin Rocks. He can be contacted at [email protected].

---