Hip-hop legend Eric B makes guest appearance at Lakehouse Music party in Asbury Park
A music legend who's also a TV star stopped by the Lakehouse Music Academy block party in Asbury Park on May 21 to help the school celebrate its 10th anniversary.
Eric B of hip-hop legend Eric B and Rakim, who's now a star of CBS' “Blue Bloods,” made an appearance on the event's stage, located in the parking on Lake Avenue across the from the school and recording complex.
“It's all about the music and we're all here because of the music,” said Eric B, who popped on stage between the sets of Sonic Blume and Des and the Swagmatics. “I made a transition into TV playing a lieutenant along with Donnie Wahlberg on CBS Friday nights at 10 o'clock — 'Blue Bloods.' Where's my 'Blue Bloods' fans at?"
The crowd cheered.
“Ok, so that means you're nice and safe at night. ... I want to say thanks to all these great musicians,” said Eric B, wearing a black long-sleeve shirt and jeans. “Please, if you get a chance donate to Lakehouse music. I'll be doing the same June 13. Come out to see me at the Stone Pony."
Eric B and Rakim are playing the Pony as part of the North 2 Shore state festival in June.
Alexander Simone & Whodat?, DeSoL, Kevian Kraemer, 8dayzstr8, Hooper, Daughter Vision, Quincy Mumford, Chill Smith, Jake Thistle and student groups also performed on Sunday.
“It's really great to see one of the pioneers of hip-hop come and support local music here in Asbury Park,” said fan Will Scott of Holmdel. “That's awesome that he came ahead of his show and talk to the youth about music.”
Eric B, aka New York City native Eric Barrier, had previously visited the Lakehouse Music Academy.
“It's a great thing,” said Eric B on Sunday. “I love what they're doing here.”
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More: Lakehouse Music Academy in Asbury Park to celebrate 10-year anniversary with block party
The Lakehouse complex, which includes the Lakehouse Music Academy and the Lakehouse Recording Studios, was founded by city musician Jon Leidersdorff 10 years ago. Jon Bon Jovi, Lorde, Southside Johnny, Brian Fallon and more have recorded at the studios.
Eric B and Rakim's music, starting with the 1987 album “Paid in Full,” is credited with imbuing hip-hop with a transitional musical and lyrical sophistication that was elemental for its growth.
Tickets for the Stone Pony show, part of the NJ Celebrates Hip Hop’s 50th Celebration, are $99 and available via stoneponyonline.com.
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Chris Jordan, a Jersey Shore native, covers entertainment and features for the USA Today Network New Jersey. Contact him at @chrisfhjordan; cjordan@app.com
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Eric B, Hip-hop legend and Blue Bloods star, visits Asbury Park
