Stevie Van Zandt to Present Lifetime Achievement in Music Award to Darlene Love at Monmouth Arts’ Gala

Asbury Park, NJ – September 4, 2025 – Monmouth Arts is thrilled to announce that Stevie Van Zandt (Little Steven), musician, actor, producer, and longtime creative collaborator with Darlene Love, will present her with the Lifetime Achievement in Music Award at the POP! A Night at the Lanes gala fundraiser on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the Asbury Lanes in Asbury Park, NJ.

Darlene Love, a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, Grammy Award-winning vocalist, and one of Rolling Stone’s “greatest singers of all time,” has defined American music for decades. Van Zandt, has collaborated with Love on numerous iconic projects, including producing her 2015 album Introducing Darlene Love, writing and producing the holiday classic All Alone on Christmas for the Home Alone 2 soundtrack, writing and producing The Spirit of Christmas for Netflix's The Christmas Chronicles 2, and performing alongside her during annual holiday renditions of Christmas (Baby Please Come Home). Their enduring creative partnership has brought Love’s extraordinary voice to new generations of fans.

Photo credits: Josh Goleman

Van Zandt is also widely recognized for helping create the “Jersey Shore” sound with the Asbury Jukes, his work as a founding member of Bruce Springsteen's legendary E Street Band, and his long career producing, writing, and performing music that has shaped rock and soul for generations. He is also known to audiences both on stage and screen, including his role as Silvio Dante on HBO’s The Sopranos.

Additionally, Tim McLoone, musician and longtime friend of Love, will share special words celebrating her extraordinary career. McLoone has performed with Love on multiple occasions, lending his musical talents to honor her legacy and bring her songs to life for audiences.

Monmouth Arts will also honor other leaders in the arts and community, including Eileen Chapman, Director of the Bruce Springsteen Archives and live music curator; Val Emmich, singer-songwriter, actor, and author of Dear Evan Hansen: The Novel; Knowledge Bennett, internationally recognized contemporary visual artist and  Ansell Grimm & Aaron, P.C., civic champions of the arts; Guests can participate in live and silent auctions featuring unique gifts and experiences, with all proceeds supporting Monmouth Arts’ mission to ignite creativity and make arts programming accessible to all.

The evening begins with the “Sip Like Andy” VIP Cocktail Reception at The Asbury Hotel – Soundbooth from 5:30 – 6:30 PM, followed by the “POP! ‘Til You Drop” Celebration & Dinner at Asbury Lanes from 6:30 – 9:30 PM. Guests will experience immersive Pop Art projections, bold visuals, music by DJ Pepe Loco, and unforgettable surprises. The live appeal will be emceed by the dynamic soul/pop singer, Remember Jones. Stephen Rubino will serve as Monmouth Arts’ emcee, bringing his signature energy and flair to the evening.

“This gala is a true celebration of music, creativity, and collaboration,” said Teresa Staub, Executive Director of Monmouth Arts. “Having Stevie Van Zandt present Darlene Love’s Lifetime Achievement in Music Award honors her remarkable career and the incredible impact she has had on generations of artists and fans alike.”

Event Details

Thursday, October 23, 2025

VIP Cocktail Reception: 5:30 – 6:30 PM, The Asbury Hotel – Soundbooth, 210 5th Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ

Dinner Celebration: 6:30 – 9:30 PM, Asbury Lanes, 209 4th Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ

For tickets call 732-212-1890 ext. 100 or visit monmoutharts.org/popgala 

About Monmouth Arts

Monmouth Arts is a leading, independent 501 (c) (3) arts advocacy organization that delivers essential programs and services to artists, member organizations, and arts affiliates, ensuring the arts thrive in and throughout Monmouth County. As Monmouth County’s official county arts agency, its mission is to enrich the community by inspiring and fostering the arts. Monmouth Arts' programs are made possible in part through funding from the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Commissioners and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. For more information on Monmouth Arts, call 732-212-1890 or visit www.monmoutharts.org.

For media inquiries, please contact: Teresa Staub, Teresa@monmoutharts.org or 732-212-1890 ext. 100