The Jersey 4 Jersey benefit for the New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund saw Jersey musicians, celebs and comedians come together to deliver a message of hope.
“We’re here tonight dedicated to our health care workers and all of those who lost loved ones who are suffering and dying from this terrible disease right here, right now, in our beloved state,” said Bruce Springsteen during the introduction.
Jersey 4 Jersey Performances
The singer and his wife Patti Scialfa did a soulful rendition of “Land of Home and Dreams.” Apart from the iconic duo, the event featured a delicate performance of “20 Something” by SZA who introduced herself as Solana from Maplewood. In addition, The Fountains of Wayne paid tribute to member Adam Schlesinger, who recently died from the coronavirus. They played the band’s “Hackensack.” The band was joined by Sharon Van Etten. Meanwhile, Hasley group-streamed “Finally/Beautiful Stranger”.
The event also shed some light on the stories of Jersey first responders, business owners, and those battling COVID-19. However, Jon Stewart also brought a touch of humor to the occasion. He made fun of his hairstyle, stating that it made him look like Doc Brown from “Back to the Future”. A moment even featured Chelsea Handler making a face mask out of a bra.
The show was put together with all the celebrities filming from inside their homes. Charlie Puth performed Springsteen’s “Growin’ Up” from his bedroom. Bruce Springsteen and Scialfa also performed “Jersey Girl”.
Jon Bon Jovi debuted a new song about the outbreak titled “Do What You Can”. He closed the event with a powerful rendition of “Livin’ on a Prayer.”
The New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund seeks to help state organizations in getting resources to vulnerable communities.
Jersey 4 Jersey was produced by Springsteen’s manager Jon Landau, Bon Jovi’s manager Irving Azoff and president and CEO of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation Joel Peresman.