YOUNG MP, Young Rapper From Edgewater Releases Debut EP
YOUNG MP, a ten-year-old rapper from Edgewater, New Jersey, has released his debut, the 'Young and Talented EP,' on October 10, 2025 with a music video for the single 'The Ghost'. The EP explores the realities and imaginative worlds of a child on the brink of adolescence.
Ska-Punk Trio Joker's Republic releases new album "The Hand You've Been Dealt" via Punkerton Records
(ESSEX COUNTY, NJ) -- New Jersey ska-punk power trio Joker's Republic have released their new album, The Hand You’ve Been Dealt, out now via Punkerton Records. Produced by Roger Lima (Less Than Jake / Rehasher) and mixed/mastered by Grammy-nominated engineer Eric Taft, the record delivers a high-energy blend of ska, punk, and melodic grit across twelve tracks that tackle loss, politics, mental health, and identity — all with the band's trademark humor and heart.
Rhonette Smith releases "Loss"
New Jersey heavy rock artist Rhonette Smith will release her newest single, "Loss," on October 30, 2025 to coincide with Día de los Muertos, in honor of her Mexican heritage. Though she only began celebrating the holiday as an adult, the track is a powerful anthem that explores her personal relationship with grief. The song is available for pre-save now.
Top Five Finalists of the 14th Annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition Have Been Announced
(NEWARK, NJ) -- New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) has announced the top five finalists of the 14th annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition. Pulled from almost 200 entrants from 27 different countries, these gifted young singers represent the next generation of great jazz vocalists. The top five finalists are: Diamond Franklin (Philadelphia, PA), Candace Jones (Hollywood, FL), Katie Kortum (New York City), Julia Moscardini (Buenos Aires, Argentina), and Emma Smith (London, England).
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COLUMNS
BlowUpRadio.com's New & Notable NJ Music 1/19/26
Lazlo, founder of BlowUpRadio.com (an online radio station based around New Jersey artists), shines a light on some of the many new releases from NJ based musicians each week with this column. This week Lazlo takes a look at new releases by Tiny Cities, The Melancholy Kings, Jay Ingstrup, Bamberdost, furiousBall, Evil6, Steam Enginess, Jason Didner and the Drive, Jon Caspi & The First Gun, and Bruce Tunkel. Plus a look back at "M.L. King" by Jon Caspi.
MORE NEWS
The Band Perry LIVE! at bergenPAC
Spotlight Central and Love Imagery have photos and a recap of The Band Perry at bergenPAC on January 11, 2026.
Helen O'Shea Shares Rendition of "Lost" by The Cranberries, Honouring Dolores O'Riordan
BBD Rhythm & Blues Band are 'Keeping the Blues Alive'
An Interview with Zalerno about "Mythic Romance"
The Newton Theatre presents Better Than Ezra on March 26st
UPCOMING SHOWS
Light of Day WinterFest 2026 Preview
(ASBURY PARK, NJ) -- It's time for the annual Light of Day shows! A time when Asbury Park comes alive with music throughout the city -- everything from singer-songwriter to rock & blues to cover bands and tribute acts. It's a great time to check out new artists, see your favorites, and experience new venues. In addition to Asbury Park, there are shows at City Winery in NYC, John & Peter's in New Hope, Outpost in the Burbs, and Bob's Birthday Bash in Red Bank.
The Legendary Wailers featuring Julian Junior Marvin come to the Scottish Rite Auditorium
Lee Brice: Acoustic with special guest Deltona at State Theatre on January 23rd
Lizzie Rose Music Room presents the Matt O'Ree Band on January 23rd
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