Rock & Roll Hall Of Famer returns to Jersey for two benefit shows

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WEST ORANGE, NJ — Richie Furay returns to New Jersey for two shows dubbed “The Musical History Of Richie Furay” on Saturday, May 14, and Sunday, May 15, with guest Jonathan Edwards, both at The Maurice Levin Theater at the JCC in West Orange.

Furay is a founding member of the legendary band, Buffalo Springfield, which he founded along with Stephen Stills and Neil Young. Their signature song, “For What It’s Worth (Stop Children What’s That Sound),” has been included in the upcoming May concert set list. Each of the two upcoming shows features a unique and different show each night.

After Buffalo Springfield disbanded, Furay co-founded POCO along with renowned musician Jim Messina. Some music critics consider Richie’s song “Pickin’ Up The Pieces” on POCO’s debut album the world’s first country-rock song. It was the sound that, in turn, influenced today’s country music including the early sound of the Eagles. Randy Meisner and Timothy B. Schmit, both POCO alumni, were subsequently recruited to be part of the Eagles.

Before embarking on his solo career, Furay was a member of the short-lived American supergroup The Souther-Hillman-Furay Band. JD Souther wrote many songs for Linda Ronstadt and the Eagles. Chris Hillman was a veteran player from The Byrds. The three musicians were brought together by music and film mogul David Geffen, but lasted fewer than two years before they split, each pursuing their own solo work.

Jonathan Edwards has a highly respected repertoire that includes such classics as “Honky Tonk Stardust Cowboy,” and everyone’s favorite ode to putting a good buzz on, “Shanty. And then, of course, there’s the top hit and Edwards’ anthem, “Sunshine (Go Away Today),” which resonates with thousands of people.

The proceeds from these concerts benefit Outpost In The Burbs, Michael J. Fox Foundation and other area local nonprofit organizations. This event is supported with sponsorship from Investors Bank, and Nancy And David Fine Jewels.

Tickets are available online at www.boxofficetickets.com/jccmetrowest or by calling 973-530-3400.

  JCC