Last Thursday, Jeremy Zucker hosted an intimate musical showdown, where three bands competed for the chance to open for him at his upcoming NYC show this fall. As a New Jersey native, Zucker’s Battle of the Bands — held at the iconic Stone Pony in Asbury Park — also marked a special milestone as his first-ever hometown performance.

Bands from across the country entered the contest using the hashtag #gardenstatecontest on TikTok, hoping to catch the attention of Zucker’s team. In the end, three were selected to perform: Turner (@turnertheband), The Blackouts (@theblackoutsband), and Safehouse (@safehouse.mp3). Each group delivered a 20-minute set, while the audience voted live for their favorite act through the website set.live.

The night wrapped up with a four-song set from Zucker himself, followed by the announcement of the evening’s winner.

Based on both their performance and audience support, the well-deserving Safehouse emerged victorious. They'll be supporting Jeremy Zucker on stage at Brooklyn Steel on October 3.