New Jersey Stage logo
New Jersey Stage Menu


?>

 

Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Can’t Get the Better of Me" by Scott McDonald


By Bob Makin

originally published: 08/22/2025

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is “Can’t Get the Better of Me” from Scott McDonald’s brand new Bongo Boy Records debut album, “See It Through.” IMAGE BY MONIQUE GRIMME

TUSK rocker Scott McDonald just dropped his debut LP for Jersey-based Bongo Boy Records.

The 12-song LP’s Michael McDonald-like smooth R&B second single, “Can’t Get the Better of Me,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

As the Makin Waves Song of the Week, “Can’t Get the Better of Me” also can be heard between 6 and 8 p.m. on Aug. 22 on “Radio Jersey at ThePenguinRocks.com. If you miss it, you can tune in any time in the archives at The Penguin and Mixcloud.

The anthemic “Can’t Get The Better Of Me” offers a sense of strength and empowerment, inspiring listeners to overcome obstacles once thought impossible. The song’s message is deeply relevant to today’s world and is sure to strike a chord.




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



Produced by Scott and Brian J. Anthony at Brian J Anthony Studio in Pennsylvania, the unforgettable track leaves a lasting impression. The melody surges with Scott’s powerful guitar riffs and bass rhythms stirring an undercurrent of energy with TUSK band mate Tom Nelson on drums and percussion. Meanwhile, Scott’s vocals are perfectly on point with his dynamic songwriting. The results make a bold statement that will uplift, encourage, and inspire listeners.

Scott approached Bongo Boy earlier this year with the album’s first single, “Wave,” to be considered for inclusion on the Kryp II Knight compilation. Label CEO Monique Grimme immediately sent the song to A&R Director Gar Francis.

The pulsing energy, evocative songwriting, and unmistakable craftsmanship piqued Gar’s curiosity. He said he was struck by Scott’s penmanship and the finesse of his arrangements.

Rather than just release a comp track, Bongo Boy committed to a full-length album. “Set It Through” dropped on Tuesday. Take a listen here.

While a tour in support of the LP has yet to be announced, Scott can be seen in his full-time role paying tribute to Fleetwood Mac with TUSK as its guitarist and co-vocalist. Those tour dates can be found at https://fleetwoodmactribute.com/tour/.

Bob Makin has produced Makin Waves since 1988. Follow Makin Waves on Facebook and contact Bob at [email protected].



New Jersey Stage is proud to be the home of Bob Makin's Makin Waves column since 2017. His Song of the Week column comes out every Friday. He also writes an Album of the Month and Interview of the Month as well.




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




EVENT PREVIEWS

(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- Tuckerton Porchfest returns on Saturday, May 2, 2026 (rain date: May 3rd) from 11:00am to 4:00pm, transforming Main Street into a vibrant, walkable celebration of local creativity. Featuring live music, poetry, visual art, vendors, and community experiences, this grassroots festival invites attendees to explore multiple porch stages hosted by local businesses and residents.
Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Cold Shot on Saturday

Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Cold Shot on Saturday

(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- The Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Cold Shot on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 7:30pm. The band is dedicated to capturing the electrifying energy and soulful sound of legendary Texas blues guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan.
bergenPAC presents Six-Time Tony Award (R) Winner Audra McDonald on May 3rd

bergenPAC presents Six-Time Tony Award (R) Winner Audra McDonald on May 3rd

(ENGLEWOOD, NJ) -- Six-time Tony Award® winner Audra McDonald will play a one-night-only concert at bergenPAC (Bergen Performing Arts Center) on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 7:00pm.
Acclaimed Organist Chelsea Chen to Perform Solo Recital Concert at Christ Church in Short Hills on May 3rd

Acclaimed Organist Chelsea Chen to Perform Solo Recital Concert at Christ Church in Short Hills on May 3rd

(SHORT HILLS, NJ) -- Christ Church in Short Hills will present a solo concert recital by internationally acclaimed organist, Chelsea Chen, on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 4:00pm. The special concert will feature a selection of traditional organ compositions along with contemporary music.
T.K. Blue to Celebrate Randy Weston

T.K. Blue to Celebrate Randy Weston's 100th Birthday at Jersey Jazz LIVE! Concert in Madison

(MADISON, NJ) -- In the history of jazz, no American musician's career has been more interconnected with the continent of Africa than that of the great pianist and composer Randy Weston. Weston, whose centennial birthday was celebrated on April 6, 2026, was a giant, not only as a creative and spiritual force, but standing six feet, seven inches, an imposing figure in the venues at which he performed throughout the world.
Undead Arts & New Jersey Symphony announce cast and crew for Mozart

Undead Arts & New Jersey Symphony announce cast and crew for Mozart's "The Magic Flute"

(JERSEY CITY, NJ) -- Undead Arts, in collaboration with New Jersey Symphony, presents a reimagined production of Mozart's The Magic Flute on May 2 & 3, 2026 at The Harborside Atrium in Jersey City. Showtime is 3:00pm.
The New Brunswick Chamber Orchestra to present a program Honoring the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution

The New Brunswick Chamber Orchestra to present a program Honoring the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution

(NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) -- The New Brunswick Chamber Orchestra will perform at the Zimmerli Art Museum on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 2:00pm. The program will honor the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.
Outpost in the Burbs presents Willie Nile Band on Sunday

Outpost in the Burbs presents Willie Nile Band on Sunday

(MONTCLAIR, NJ) -- Outpost in the Burbs presents Willie Nile Band on Sunday, May 3, 2026. The New York Times once called Buffalo, NY born Willie Nile "one of the most gifted singer-songwriters to emerge from the New York scene in years." Jersey City based artist Debra Devi will open the night.
Lily Vakili to Celebrate Release of "Live Wire" EP on Wednesday

Lily Vakili to Celebrate Release of "Live Wire" EP on Wednesday

(NEW YORK, NY) -- Lily Vakili will celebrate the release of her Live Wire EP on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at The Francis Kite Club. Doors are at 8:00pm; Showtime is 8:30pm.
RVCC Student Jazz Ensemble to Perform May 7th

RVCC Student Jazz Ensemble to Perform May 7th

(BRANCHBURG, NJ) -- Raritan Valley Community College's (RVCC) Student Jazz Ensemble will perform in concert Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 7:30pm. The concert will be held in the Welpe Theatre at the College's Branchburg campus. The group is directed by RVCC faculty member Jeremy Sweet.

 

MORE EVENTS

Click on the listing to bring up its webpage