voices of all time.” And, lastly,
Van Zandt is impressed with
“his soul,” acknowledging that
James made it a point to cam-
paign for political candidates at
a time in history when that
simply wasn’t done.
Most widely known as the
leader of the world-reknown
rock group, Tommy James and
the Shondells, over the course
of his 50-year career, James has
amassed an enviable collection
of hits to his credit including
“Hanky Panky,” “Crystal Blue Per-
NJ STAGE 2017 - Vol. 4 No. 5
suasion,” “Crimson and Clover,”
and “Sweet Cherry Wine.”
Upon receiving his award,
James tells the crowd, “I was
born in Ohio, raised in Michigan,
and adopted by Jersey,” reveal-
ing he’s extremely happy to have
had New Jersey as the “home
state I’ve lived in for 45 years.”
Following his induction — a bit
later in the ceremony — James
takes the stage to perform live
for the sold-out crowd at The
Paramount Theater.
Here, Tommy opens with an un-
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