Bruce Springsteen Makes Surprise Appearance at Benefit Show

Bruce Springsteen made an unexpected appearance at the 25th anniversary Light of Day concert at Count Basie Theater. His surprise stop on Jan. 18 in Red Bank, New Jersey was his first time on stage this year.

Making his 12th appearance at the Parkinson's research fundraiser since its beginning, The Boss performed alongside Jesse Malin. For Malin, the performance was especially meaningful as one of his first shows since recovering from a severe spinal stroke in 2023.

When Malin brought the New Jersey legend to the stage, he shared stories about their first encounter at an old benefit show. The pair then teamed up for their song "Broken Radio."

Fans cheered as "Darkness on the Edge of Town" and "The Promised Land" filled the room. Willie Nile joined for "One Guitar," while the evening wrapped up with everyone on stage for "Light of Day" and a stripped-down "Thunder Road."

The evening marked Springsteen's comeback - his first Light of Day appearance since the 20th anniversary celebration in 2020.

Benjamin, Pallagrosi, and Joe D'Urso originally turned a birthday celebration into a $2,000 fundraiser. Today, their efforts reach across 12 countries, generating over $7 million for crucial research.

"The first official Light of Day concert was held at Asbury Park, NJ's legendary Stone Pony in November 2000 and primarily featured local, unsigned artists. The critically acclaimed Pittsburgh-based band Joe Grushecky and the Houserockers (managed by Bob Benjamin) headlined the show, which featured a surprise appearance by local hero Bruce Springsteen, who joined the Houserockers for a raucous hour-long set" according to the WBGO Journal.

Big names like Michael J. Fox, John Rzeznik, Ed Kowalczyk, and Lucinda Williams have performed at past events. The foundation puts money toward innovative treatments while supporting those fighting Parkinson's.