Iconic and eccentric are often mutually exclusive terms in the world of contemporary music. However, those adjectives perfectly describe Southside Johnny Lyon.
It's not surprising to see the charismatic singer-songwriter tending to his garden clad in underwear while relaxing at his Ocean Grove home. And then there is the other side of Lyon engaging audiences belting out sing-along songs that are infectious but are filled with grit.
The latter comes from those early years in Asbury Park, where Lyon formed his infallible band, the Asbury Jukes, which came together a half-century ago. Lyon, 75, and his band have enjoyed an enviable career serving up solid, well-constructed pop-rock tunes.
The soulful-horn-driven group provides escape through relatable songs, such as the hook-laden but deep "This Time it's For Real," "I Don't Want to Go Home" and "Love on the Wrong Side of Town."
"It's been a good run," Lyon said. "I'm thankful that's the way it is because I don't know what else I would do."
Perhaps the Neptune native could have been a stand-up comic since the under heralded entertainer is unique and amusing.
"There's nobody like Southside," Lyon's pal and occasional on-stage foil Gary U.S. Bonds said. "He's hilarious."
That was always evident when Lyon held court, often with Bonds, during Bobby Bandiera's legendary benefit shows at Red Bank's Count Basie Theater during the aughts.
"I enjoy performing," Lyon said. "I had fun at those shows and still have a good time every time I step onstage."
Lyon, like Bruce Springsteen left the area, the Boss for Los Angeles and Southside for Nashville, but each returned to his roots. Lyon has a special affinity for his hometown of Ocean Grove.
"I've always loved Ocean Grove and Asbury Park," Lyon said. "It's a special part of the country." It's a place where Lyon can be himself and that's important personally and professionally. "I do things a little differently than everybody else," Lyon said. "There was once a time when that was a good thing. We've always been true to the music. It's not about chasing trends. It's about being ourselves."
"I do things a little differently than everybody else," Lyon said. "There was once a time when that was a good thing. We've always been true to the music. It's not about chasing trends. It's about being ourselves."