On a perfect late-summer evening, the Coney Island Amphitheater came alive Saturday, Aug. 30, as thousands of freestyle fans packed the venue for the 9th Annual Labor Day Freestyle Beach House Concert.
Organized by Brian Rosenberg of BRNY Special Events & Hospitality Consulting, alongside Fever Entertainment and Live Nation, the night celebrated 40 years of the freestyle genre with an all-star lineup and special surprises.
Hosted by Sal Abbatiello and Speedy, the evening was a reunion of the soundtrack of many childhoods. One by one, the artists who defined an era took the stage: Alisha, a Brooklyn native who grew up near Canarsie, belted out her classics and gave fans her “All Night Passon.” Seduction electrified the crowd with “Two to Make It Right.” Soave had everyone singing along to “Crying Over You,” and Cynthia had the amphitheater swaying to her timeless hits “Dreamboy/Dreamgirl” and “Change on Me.” Judy Torres delivered soaring vocals on “No Reason to Cry,” while Johnny O reminded everyone why “Fantasy Girl” remains a freestyle anthem.
George Lamond kept the energy high with “Bad of the Heart” and “Look Into My Eyes,” and Tony Moran of the Latin Rascals showcased the artistry that has kept him a freestyle and dance legend for decades. Joe Zangie took the stage with Danielle Dante, best known for hits like “Love You Like Wow” and “Then Came You.” TKA closed the night in explosive fashion with a string of classics, including “Maria” and “Louder Than Love,” proving once again why they remain the kings of freestyle.
The evening wasn’t just about the music — it was also about recognition. Live Nation and Fever Entertainment presented the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award to Brooklyn’s own Joe Causi, honoring his decades as a radio voice and tireless champion of freestyle, disco, and doo-wop.
Backstage, camaraderie was palpable. Speedy mingled with artists, while Alisha and her husband reflected on her Brooklyn roots, proud to be performing in her hometown. Other performers shared their excitement about keeping the freestyle flame alive for new generations.
For longtime fans, it was pure nostalgia — a reminder of high school dances, cassette tapes, and summer nights when these songs first blared from radios and club speakers. For younger attendees, it was a historical musical lesson in a dynamic era of great beats.
