John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band to Rock the United Theatre
For the first time ever, Rhode Island’s legendary John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band will perform at the historic United Theatre in downtown Westerly, igniting the stage this Saturday, November 2nd. The show kicks off at 7:30 pm with Caswell & The Peel N’ Eats, an up-and-coming band making waves with their national hits “The Beach” and “Coconut Kevin.” This is more than just another concert; it's a fusion of local history and rock ‘n’ roll legacy set in one of New England’s most storied venues.
John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band have long been iconic figures in the Rhode Island music scene and beyond. Known for their powerful, heartfelt performances and blue-collar rock ethos, they found fame in the 1980s with their breakout album, Eddie and the Cruisers (1983), and its unforgettable anthem, “On the Dark Side.” Westerly’s United Theatre—a restored cultural center that has seen performances across various arts for decades—will serve as a fitting setting for this first-ever show in town. Audiences can expect a night steeped in nostalgia, high-energy rock, and the timeless allure of live music.
Formed in the early 1970s, John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band began their journey in the bars and clubs along Rhode Island’s coastline. The band, led by frontman John Cafferty, quickly built a reputation for raw, compelling performances that resonated with local audiences. Their big break came when they provided the soundtrack for Eddie and the Cruisers, a film about a fictional rock band. Although the film received a lukewarm reception initially, its music resonated with fans, propelling songs like “On the Dark Side” to the top of the charts.
Following Eddie and the Cruisers, Cafferty and his band rode the wave of success with Tough All Over (1985), an album that further solidified their presence in the rock world. The album produced several popular tracks, including “C-I-T-Y,” which became another signature hit and earned significant radio airplay. Their blue-collar lyrics, combined with anthemic guitar riffs, struck a chord with listeners who related to the band’s hardworking ethos and gritty determination.
Fans attending the United Theatre show can anticipate a thrilling setlist packed with classics from both Eddie and the Cruisers and Tough All Over, as well as other fan favorites that span the band’s impressive career. Songs like “On the Dark Side,” “Tender Years,” and “Tough All Over” are expected to bring the audience to their feet, evoking memories of a bygone era while celebrating the timeless power of rock ‘n’ roll.
Opening the night will be Caswell & The Peel N’ Eats, a band that brings a fresh, beach-inspired sound, combining catchy hooks with a fun, summery vibe. Their hits “The Beach” and “Coconut Kevin” have quickly gained national attention, and their energy will set the stage perfectly for the legendary Rhode Island rockers.
With the historical significance of the United Theatre and the long-awaited debut of John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band in Westerly, this is a show you don’t want to miss. Tickets are expected to sell quickly, so grab yours now to be part of this iconic night. The doors open at 6:30 pm, with the show kicking off at 7:30 pm. Be prepared for an evening of authentic rock ‘n’ roll in a venue that’s just as legendary as the performers themselves.