Hosted throughout the entire month of June in Atlantic City, Asbury Park and Newark, “North 2 Shore” is New Jersey’s newest music festival lineup. Each respective city had their own events and concerts. The BELLA team had the opportunity to attend some of these events and  we can’t wait to share the inside scoop on what you missed. 

North 2 Shore had an amazing lineup of incredible artists who performed. The festival housed artists that appealed to all ages and music lovers of different genres from pop icon and former disney star, Demi Lovato to latin rock singer Santanna. 

Halsey, a Jersey girl born and raised, had a two night orchestra show at Newark’s NJPac. During the concert, Halsey locked eyes with her high school art teacher. She began to thank and acknowledge her for the emotional support and guidance she offered her in high school. 

“I would eat lunch in her room and would stay after school and hang out in her room for hours,” says Halsey “She stayed with me when I didn’t want to go home” Halsey said. The three time nominated Grammy artist started to sob on stage, overwhelmed with nostalgia and gratitude. Fans continued to cheer her on to continue through the concert. 

As she continued she later said at the conclusion of her show “she could go all around the world and be who she is now but when she comes back to Jersey, Jersey remembers who she was, therefore she has to be herself.” “North 2 Shore” celebrates how special not only New Jersey is but also the talent that comes from Jersey. 

“North 2 Shore” shows their support for small businesses by issuing grants for business owners to host events in honor of the festival. DJ studio and events space “Bunkr'' participated in the festival by hosting a Caribbean music night with Rihanna’s legendary DJ, Max Glazer and in partnership with June Shine canned cocktails and Boxed Water.We had the opportunity to speak with founders of Bunkr, Nick Keleshian and Joshua Garcia.

Isabella: What was your initial reaction when you found out you received the grant from North 2 Shore?

“We were in a state of shock. We were hoping to receive the grant but didn't know if we were actually going to get it or not. Since this was the first run of the festival, we had no reference to go off of for past recipients, says Keleshian. After the shock went away, we were just grateful to be given a shot. We knew we had a lot of work to do from that point on, says Garcia.”

Isabella: What inspired you to have a Caribbean music night for your event? How was it working with Max Glazer?

“We knew we wanted to do something different and try something new. We never threw an all Caribbean party but we thought it would be perfect for the festival and for Newark as a whole. It was important for us to do something diverse and interesting that most people haven't seen before on the block, said Garcia. Max was a pleasure to work with from the very beginning. We've been going to see shows of his for years, so working with him was a bit surreal. Happy to consider him a friend now, says Keleshian.”

The night was filled with dancing and laughter from all different ages. As observed through different events throughout the state music brings people together in such a pure way. Both Keleshian and Garcia are grateful for the opportunity from “North 2 Shore.”  

Bunkr’s North 2 Shore event PC- Keith Pictures

“It was a pleasure working with everyone and we want to congratulate them on all the other successful events they organized,” says Keleshian. “We look forward to working with them again” Gracia said. 

From one Caribbean night to the next our last stop was Asbury Park, New Jersey at the St. Laurent Social Club. This event was hosted by “Illsound” an event group that celebrates unity through music and sound system culture, founded by William Gay. The theme of the night was Lovers’ Rock, a style of reggae music.“While not always represented, there is a strong Caribbean community within Asbury Park,” says Gay “My event was centered around celebrating the music and joyous energy that is exuded within the culture. We celebrated Caribbean culture and influence with people from all walks of life. My event sought to celebrate the diverse culture and richness of Asbury Park and ensure it was properly represented” Gay says As soon as you walked into St. Laurent you could feel the energy of the DJs and guests dancing and simply enjoying themselves to the music and ambiance that was created for this event. 

We asked Gay, How do you believe your event went, was it everything you hoped for? “The impact of this event was to bring our community together under one roof and celebrate diversity. In Jamaica they say "Out of many one", within Asbury Park there is such a diverse history of artistry and music. This event brought that all to life. I witnessed everyone young and old from all walks of life come and enjoy great music, dance, and make a memorable experience. My highlight of the night was seeing everyone dance to Beres Hammond Doctor's Order.”

This year was North 2 Shore’s first festival and it doesn't look like it’s going to be the last. From international acclaimed artists to small business owners all of New Jersey got involved this summer. We would like to thank North 2 Shore for an amazing experience and can’t wait to see you next year!