Last week, Christopher Sheldon listed all of the summer concerts happening in Long Branch. As someone who’s been enjoying summers at the Jersey Shore for many years now, here’s my list of “must see” events:

Blues By The Beach (West End Park)
June 10: Philadelphia Funk (7PM)

There’s no better way to start the Long Branch concert season off than with the high-energy sound of Philadelphia Funk, featuring lead singer and Long Branch native Jillian Rhys, and the best horn section this side of Tower Of Power.

Thursday By The Sea (Festival Plaza in Pier Village)
June 14: Tim McLoone & The Shirleys (7PM)

What is there to say about Tim McLoone and the Shirleys that hasn’t already been said? They play the favorites from back in the ‘60’s and ‘70’s all the way up to today’s pop hits.

Cruisin’ At The Jersey Shore(The Great Lawn)
June 17 from 1-10PM with RB Express

Besides the high-powered rhythm and blues sound of RB Express, the Promenade will be filled with classic cars for all to see and enjoy. It’s a real treat for all us dads on Father’s Day, too.

Downtown Tuesday Nights (Broadway Stage near McDonald’s behind Brookdale)
June 28: Long Branch High School Jazz Orchestra (7PM)

The city’s newest musical venue hosts Long Branch students performing under the direction of high school musical director Bob Clark. These kids never cease to amaze.

Oceanfest (The Long Branch Promenade)
July 4 from 1-10p.m.

This is the 22^nd year for Oceanfest, one of the biggest Fourth of July celebrations in the state of New Jersey. This is one of my favorite events ever in Long Branch. Make sure to bring your appetites -- food vendors galore!

Thursday By The Sea (Festival Plaza in Pier Village)
July 19: The Nerds (7PM)

The Nerds bring their high-energy rock ‘n’ roll road show to Pier Village. These guys have been together for almost 30 years, and they never disappoint. Every year, the Nerds play host to the largest crowds ever assembled at Pier Village on a Thursday night.

Thursday By The Sea (Festival Plaza in Pier Village)
August 2: Marc Muller Summer Breeze (7PM)

If you’re into The Grateful Dead, this band is a definite must-see. One of the best Dead cover bands I’ve ever heard.

Thursday By The Sea (Festival Plaza in Pier Village)
August 16: After The Reign (7PM)

After The Reign is one of the hottest country & western bands in the area. Playing both cover songs and their own original music, they never fail to please, even if you’re not that much into country music.

West End Cruise Night 2
August 18, 6-10 p.m.

Local duo Ron Weinstein and “The Kootz” play West End Park, while The Cherubs light up the main stage in the West End Municipal Parking Lot, opening up for Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, a big part of the The Sound of Philadelphia (TSOP) back in the 1970’s.

Thursday By The Sea (Festival Plaza in Pier Village)
August 25: Brian Kirk and The Jirks (7PM)

Local favorite Brian Kirk & The Jirks cover Springsteen to a tee, and play other party-time hits as well. Always the crowd pleaser, they headline the final show of the summer season at Pier Village.

And of course, for more information on all the concerts and summer events, contact Barry Stein 732-923-2044 or e-mail bstein@ci.long-branch.nj.us

(You can also follow Kevin Cieri’s blog on his Facebook page, “Jersey Shore Retro” as well as on Twitter at @jsretro).