BY Angela Sasso | December 23rd, 2025
Jon McLaughlin Brings the Holiday Cheer to Long Island
Singer-Songwriter Jon McLaughlin captivated the crowd in Bayshore New York during his Home for the Holidays tour with his amazing melodies and breathtaking piano skills this holiday season. The mood was set perfectly with a beautiful Christmas tree and warming atmosphere as concert goers gathered in the theater with excitement on Saturday night.
As the lights dimmed T.3 a New York City trio entered the stage amping the crowd up for what would be a night to get you right in the holiday spirit. Brendon Jacob Smith, Liam Fennecken & Jim Hogan performed several acapella holiday songs seamlessly yet intimate while having nice interactions with the crowd.
Jon McLaughlin took the stage not long after for his second performance at this venue with a mix of holiday classics along with some songs off of his new album Scenarios. Jon’s passion for performing was felt effortlessly every minute he was on stage while his piano skills left people in awe, as well as his charming yet comical banter.
Jon and T.3 gave fans a special treat by sharing the stage for a crowd pleasing joint performance just before the night ended and Jon came out for an encore that had the crowd standing and cheering. After the show Jon gave everyone a joyful surprise by meeting fans and posing for photos and autographs; While some were still walking out of the theater each person stopped to thank him, shake his hand and compliment his talent they had just listened to and watched.
During an interview Jon said "I have been playing the piano since I was really young, like 4 years old I've been playing as long as I can remember. I have wanted to basically just be Elton John/Billy Joel." While asking about his writing process he explained "I have a love/hate relationship with writing. I hate the blank page but when I finally get an idea and get the creative ball rolling then I really love it."
It's no surprise Jon has a special spot in his heart for his fans, he was asked how performing live changes the way he experiences his own music in which his reply was heartfelt "I think the biggest impact that live performances have on me as I get to see that these songs belong to anyone and everyone who loves them. Looking out into the crowd and seeing someone with their eyes closed singing, one of my songs is the absolute best."
Performing live for each musician is something special and especially holiday music; Jon agreed on why it's so special to him. "Performing is magic. Being in the same room with other people experiencing music in a shared moment in real time is one of the best things about being alive and as far as the holiday part, I just love Christmas and I love Christmas music. It’s so nostalgic!"
Jon's kind natured character had great words when he was asked what was the biggest lesson he has learned along his music journey in which he said "Just to simply relax and enjoy it. It sounds very simple, but it’s taken me almost 20 years to learn."
To say the least, Jon is beyond down to earth and just a lovely soul to be around during his show and after and the crowd would love to see him back here again.
