Stanhope House hosts blues competition

Friday, April 25

Singer-songwriter Nick Keena brings his heartfelt acoustic tunes to the Lafayette House, 75 Route 15, at 6 p.m.

John Cain will be performing a solo set at McQ’s Pub at Lake Lenape, 165 Andover Sparta Road, Newton, at the same time.

The Harrisons & Company will deliver a rocking full-band set at 7 p.m. at the Stanhope House, 45 Main St. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

Also at 7 p.m., Miss Demeanor brings its fiery flair to Brick & Brew, 27 Route 23, Franklin, serving up a punchy, crowd-pleasing set.

Indie-rock meets pop and country at 8 p.m. when Hudson Valley native Darian Rivera takes the stage at Krogh’s Restaurant & Brew Pub, 23 White Deer Plaza, Sparta, joined by the township’s Dave Kunz for a special duo performance.

Cap off the night with karaoke at 9 p.m. at O’Reilly’s Pub & Grill, 271 Spring St., Newton.

Saturday, April 26

Saturday offers a full afternoon and evening of music from solo performers to tribute acts and high-energy bands.

Sue Polcer plays a mix of keyboard-driven rock, pop and country at 4 p.m. at Angry Erik Brewing, 2 Camre Drive, Newton.

DnA returns to the Lafayette House at 6 p.m. with its unique blend of genres in a dynamic duo set that mixes modern and classic vibes.

The Foster Children deliver gritty rock at McQ’s Pub, cover band Triggerfish brings rock ‘n’ roll to Brick & Brew, and Uncle Stump brings its twang and rootsy energy back to Milk Street Distillery, 1 Milk St., Branchville, all at 7 p.m.

For something nostalgic and moving, head to the Newton Theatre, 234 Spring St., at 8 p.m. for “Home Again - A Tribute to Carole King.” Deb De Lucca and her seasoned band will pay tribute to the legendary singer-songwriter with passion and authenticity. Tickets are available online at skypac.org

At 9 p.m., swing by O’Reilly’s Pub to catch John Pabst closing out the night with his signature solo style.

Sunday, April 27

Beginning at 11 a.m. at the Stanhope House, the North Jersey Blues Society hosts its annual Blues Competition, where local bands and solo/duo acts battle for a coveted spot at the 2026 International Blues Challenge in Memphis. Doors open at noon. Tickets are $10. Catch some of the region’s most passionate performers as they are judged by a panel of seasoned blues pros.

The good vibes roll on at Angry Erik Brewing, where Mingo brings his signature blend of folk and rock to the stage at 2:30 p.m.

Tuesday, April 29

Tuesday offers a treat for music lovers and audiophiles alike with Vinyl Night at O’Reilly’s Pub. Bring your own records or choose from the pub’s stash to set the soundtrack starting at 8 p.m.

Wednesday, April 30

At 5:30 p.m., Iron Cobra returns to rock the barn at Blue Arrow Farm, 86 Glenwood Road, Pine Island, N.Y., at Danny C’s Wednesday Night Concert Series, where hot rods and high-octane rock come together for an unforgettable night.

Karaoke fans may head to the Homestead Rest, 294 N. Church Road, Sparta, where Ray Sikora hosts a lively karaoke night at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 1

At 6 p.m., the Homestead Rest hosts its Acoustic Open Mic Night, offering aspiring musicians a welcoming stage to share songs. Sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.

At 8:30 p.m., Krogh’s presents the return of Todd Sheaffer, best known for his work with From Good Homes and Railroad Earth. After selling out his April show, he’s back with a new set for this private, ticketed event. With rich songwriting, acoustic warmth and rootsy storytelling, it’s an intimate performance for fans age 21 and older. Tickets are available via Eventbrite.

Send information to Stefani at themicnj@gmail.com