About Carl Gentry

At first glance, Carl Gentry resembles an adult version of the all-American boy-next-door.  In fact, early in his musical career, a customer in a biker bar told Carl, "You're an out of this world guitarist. But kid, you look like the paperboy!"

That hasn't changed much. But make no mistake. This wholesome family man can rock 'n' roll with the best of them.

Carl Gentry Chris onRiver Growing up, the native New Jerseyan lived down the street from rock royalty, Steven Van Zandt.  Carl's dream of becoming a successful musician was fueled, in part, when limos would pull up to Little Steven's house to whisk the rock star to stadium and arena gigs with Springsteen. Carl's family also encouraged a love for music, with his father taking him to the symphony and his mom enrolling him in formal piano lessons. Along the way, Carl also learned guitar and trumpet, and, as a teen, he led bands that triumphed in Battle of the Bands competitions.

Carl's family, however, cautioned him about making music his primary career. Fortunately, he was also passionate about writing, mentoring kids and "giving back" to society -- all of which drove him to obtain a bachelor's degree in English education. But he never gave up on music. While at the University of Delaware, he formed the classic rock-infused band, Double Standard. The band played the Deer Park Tavern, famous as the proving ground for guitar great George Thorogood.

Carl Gentry Chris onRiver 427x374Carl returned to his Jersey roots after college and performed in several cover bands at some of rock's most noted venues, such as The Tradewinds, Jenkinsons, The Stone Pony and The Bitter End. At the same time, Carl participated in original music showcases for record executives at Columbia and other labels.

Carl took a hiatus from music in his late 20s and early 30s to get his master's degree, but he came back swinging.  He re-emerged as a solo artist, and sometimes performed in a duo. 

In 2005, he released a self-titled CD of original music. At the encouragement of musician and restaurateur Tim McLoone, Carl formed the Carl Gentry Band in 2010. With this career step, Carl's musical journey had come full circle, now leading a group of musicians as he had done with the bands he organized in his teen years.

The Carl Gentry Band has built a loyal following for its high energy shows that include an inspired mix of instantly recognizable classic and party rock hits, as well as some of Carl's own songs. The playlist is a window to Carl's musical influences:  The Beatles, Billy Joel, Roy Orbison, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Neil Young, The Rolling Stones, The Who, Pink Floyd, and many others. 

carl gentry BBCarl performs with Jon Bon Jovi and Friends, Jon Bon Jovi and the Kings of Suburbia as well as Jersey Shore legend and world-class musician, Bob Bandiera. He was also tapped to play with Dead On Live, a critically-acclaimed Grateful Dead tribute band. And when Carl's not in front of an audience, he continues to write music for a second CD.

Carl's passion for his craft, superb musicianship and exuberant performance style are taking his music career to the next level. And even as his musical career is taking off, Carl finds time to perform in his church group, a tradition that started when he was a teenager. In addition, he donates his talents to Holiday Express, a non-profit organization that delivers music, food, financial support and friendship to those with the greatest need for the gift of human kindness.

Who says nice guys finish last?


Learn about the Carl Gentry Band

Recent Photos (via Instagram)

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    When you go out to clean the snow off the Jeep and find that rare occasion when there is good packing snow...
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    BRR!!! 1/29/2021...I ran really fast to and from the car to snap each of these. It was brutal, but was worth it. The things you do when you have cabin fever ;-)
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    Today I hung out with my "deer friends" while on my walk out on Sandy Hook.
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    Pizza, beer, Twinkie on my lap, and of course Laura here with me and I am a happy guy on my "35th backwards" birthday! I just wanted to thank everyone for your wonderful birthday wishes, and I look forward to the next time we can celebrate together at my annual birthday gig extravaganza!
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    Hey, I just wanted to give a special thanks to all my musician friends who reached out with either a like or comment, or acknowledgment on Laura Sparrow Gentry 's or my Instagram profile this past week. I am just so overwhelmed with all the amazing LOVE I have received from so many, but to be recognized by your PEERS is such an honor, THANK YOU!
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    Thank you so much once again for all the support! My phone went on meltdown last night from all the heartfelt texts, messages and social media posts. I really appreciate it! The sun, after being obscured by the clouds, peeked out finally. It was amazing!
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    Feb. 27th, Asbury Park: Join Carl Gentry Band as they share their ultimate tribute WNEW Classic Rock playlist. Hear the music we grew up with, listen to the voices of the legendary DJs, and reflect on some of the major events of the 60's, 70's, and early 80's. See link in bio for tickets
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    To my friends: I'll have a Blue Christmas without you this year. Here's a short clip of me singing one of my favorite Christmas tunes. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! #bluechristmas #elvis
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    This Friday 12/11 Carl Gentry solo at Proving Ground, Highlands 6-9:30pm. Photo by @nancykravisphotography
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    This Friday 12/4 6:30pm...Carl Gentry performing at Charley's Ocean Grill, Long Branch. LOTS of fun!!...and...the most organized, clean, sanitary, air-filtered facility with proper social distancing and safety measures. Call 732-222-4499 so you don't miss out.
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    I'm thinking this should make you smile?
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    This Sunday Nov. 22nd Carl Gentry Solo Acoustic Sandbox at Sea Streak 1-4pm! Do you think the weather will hold out? Is this the last weekend of outdoor gigs?
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    This Saturday Nov. 21st...Carl Gentry Solo Acoustic at the Salty Whale Manasquan 5-9pm
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    Twinkie says, "Dahling, you're boring me"
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    Life continues, albeit a little weird these days, in spite of the pandemic
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    Eastpointe
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    Step back in time to your youth with us and celebrate the clasic rock of the iconic radio station, WNEW-FM. Join Carl Gentry Band as they share their ultimate WNEW playlist. Relive the times and some of the major cultural events of the late 60s, 70's and early 1980's. Tickets: https://mcloones.ticketbud.com/carl-gentry-band-where-rock-lives-c2e2ccc2-92ace8058efc
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    TONIGHT FRIDAY 10/30: Carl Gentry Band kicks off "Live Music Friday's" this Friday. Call 732 222 4499 to make reservations, spots are filling up fast! #livemusic #longbranch #jerseyshore @charleysgrill
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    Carl Gentry performing at Proving Ground Sat.10/24, Sandbox at Seastreak Sun. 10/25 and Thurs. 10/29, Charley's Ocean Grill Fri.10/30(Band), Sat. 11/7 Tim Mcloone's Supper Club (Band), and the Salty Whale Sat. 11/21 ...indoor and outoor performances... - Click link in bio to see full schedule
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    Eerie!

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