In an electrifying night that transported the audience back in time, Josie Cotton took center stage at Brooklyn Bowl in Las Vegas, Nevada, delivering a performance that seamlessly blended nostalgia with a fresh, contemporary energy.
Josie Cotton’s journey into the music scene began in the early 80s, a period that laid the foundation for her enduring career. Emerging during the vibrant and eclectic era of new wave and post-punk, Cotton quickly made a name for herself with her distinctive sound and rebellious spirit. Her breakthrough came with the infectious hit “Johnny, Are You Queer?” which not only garnered attention for its catchy hooks but also for its bold and unapologetic lyrics. Cotton became a symbol of the era, blending punk’s raw energy with pop sensibilities, creating a musical landscape that resonated with a generation. As she took the stage at Brooklyn Bowl in Las Vegas, it was evident that the same passion and innovation that fueled her early success were still very much alive, captivating both longtime admirers and those discovering her timeless artistry for the first time.
Cotton’s setlist was a well-crafted mix of her classic hits and newer material, showcasing the artist’s ability to evolve while staying true to her roots. The infectious energy of tracks like “Johnny, Are You Queer?” and “License to Dance” had the crowd dancing and singing along, proving that Cotton’s music has lost none of its charm over the years.
The band accompanying Josie Cotton was a powerhouse, delivering flawlessly executed renditions of her beloved hits and tunes from her newly released eighth album, Day of the Gun. The musicianship was top-notch, with each member contributing to the overall sonic brilliance that filled the Brooklyn Bowl. Josie Cotton and bandmate, Cherish Alexander, radiated with their dynamic synergy showcasing the undeniable strength of women in music, making it clear that the stage is where they shine brightest.
As the night drew to a close, the crowd was left buzzing with a sense of fulfillment and nostalgia. Josie Cotton’s performance was not just a trip down memory lane but a testament to the enduring power of her music. Whether you were a longtime fan or a newcomer, the show was a reminder that great music transcends time, and Josie remains a force to be reckoned with proving that she’s not just a figure of the past; she’s a living legend who continues to command the stage with a passion that’s as infectious as ever. Brooklyn Bowl may have witnessed many performances, but on this night, it belonged to Josie Cotton and her timeless tunes.
Josie’s newly released eighth album, Day of the Gun (out now via Kitten Robot Records) is breakthrough record for her. While not abandoning the pop rock feel of her earlier material, she has evolved into a storyteller who continues to venture into many different and varied genres, bring British Invasion to Spy Music to Garage Rock and Swampabilly. She wrote and co-produced the album at her Kitten Robot Studio alongside producer Paul Roessler (TSOL, Richie Ramone, The Screamers, Nina Hagan) and it features guest appearances by Kevin Preston (Long Shot, Prima Donna), Eddie Spaghetti (Supersuckers), Clem Burke (Blondie), and Lee Rocker (Stray Cats).
TOUR DATES
Dec 9 – Lake Como/Asbury Pk, NJ @ Salty’s Beach Bar (with Plimsouls)
Dec 10 – Millersville, PA @ Phantom Power (with Plimsouls)
Dec 12 – Baltimore, MD @ Metro Gallery (with Plimsouls)
Dec 13 – Cambridge, MA @ The Middle East (with Plimsouls)