The MMRBQ Festival in Camden, NJ at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion, presented by 93.3 WMMR, was a day filled with unforgettable experiences for rock fans. The festival featured an impressive lineup of bands, including Ayron Jones, Larkin Poe, Billy Idol, and Shinedown. Although the event also included performances by Dirty Honey, Finger Eleven, Tigercub, and Vixen 77, we were invited to cover the last four headlining bands.
Ayron Jones, an up-and-coming artist from Seattle, opened the show with his powerful mix of rock, hip-hop, and blues. His performance, which opened with “Boys From the Puget Sound,” and included hits “Otherside,” “Filthy,” “Blood In The Water,” and “Take Me Away” showcased his raw energy, unique sound, and potential to become a major force in the rock scene.
Larkin Poe, an American roots rock band led by sisters Rebecca and Megan Lovell, followed with their soulful set. Hailing from Georgia and currently based in Nashville, Tennessee, their performance featured a blend of rock, blues, and Americana, with popular numbers like “Summertime Sunset” and “Bad Spell.” The sisters’ harmonies, musicianship, and exceptional skills on the lap steel and electric guitars captivated the audience.
Billy Idol, the British punk rock legend, took the stage next, delivering a high-energy set filled with classic hits and fan favorites. Kicking off with “Dancing With Myself,” Idol’s charisma and enduring talent were palpable as he performed closing songs “Rebel Yell,” “Hot In The City,” and “Rebel Yell,” transporting the audience back to the golden age of punk.
Finally, Shinedown, an American rock band from Jacksonville, Florida, rounded off the performances with an emotional rollercoaster of a set. Formed by singer Brent Smith in 2001, the band took the audience on a journey through some of their greatest hits, opening with “Diamond Eyes” and closing with “Cut The Cord.”
It is undeniable that the MMRBQ Festival at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion was a resounding success, celebrating the past, present, and future of the rock genre. The event provided a beautiful blend of the rich history of rock, with legends like Billy Idol gracing the stage, and its promising future, with acts like Larkin Poe and Ayron Jones. For any rock enthusiast, this festival was a journey through time, leaving fans eagerly anticipating next year’s event.
Ayron Jones
Larkin Poe
Billy Idol
Shinedown
