Soft rock and fireworks ignited the summer spirit in Brighton Beach when Grammy Award-winning singer Michael Bolton jump-started the free Thursday night concerts at Asser Levy Seaside Park by wrapping his famous tenor vocals around a ribbon of his most famous hits.
The crooner, best known for riding the crest of the ‘80s pop wave, packed the sprawling green at West 5th Street and Surf Avenue for the first leg of the Seaside Park Summer Concert Series, which has evolved into a Brooklyn summertime tradition since it first entertained boroughites on Midwood Field 30 years ago.
Borough President Marty Markowitz, who founded the series when he was a state senator, was in fine form as extended a warm Brooklyn welcome to the star, born Michael Bolotin in New Haven, Connecticut, who returned to the joyous crowd a medley of his songs.
Known for such hits as “How Can We Be Lovers,” “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” and an memorable interpretation of Otis Redding’s (Sittin’ On) the Dock of the Bay,” Bolton wowed the crowd and had fans dancing in the aisles as he sang the classics.
The American Music and Grammy award winner, who co-wrote Laura Brannigan’s smash pop hit, “Gloria,” has sold 53 million albums and eight top tem albums, and released two number one singles on the Billboard charts.
The concerts continue through August 21 with a starry line-up each Thursday at dusk:
July 17: Brian Wilson.
July 24: Smokey Robinson.
July 31: Mystery night with special guest Starship, starring Mickey Thomas.
August 7: Liza Minnelli.
August 14: Salsa by the Sea.
August 21: Huey Lewis and the News with Paul Thorn.
Showtime is 7:30 p.m., and performances are subject to change without notice. Also, bring your own chair as seating is limited. For updates, call the concert hotline at 718-222-0600, or visit www.brooklynconcerts.com.
