The Smithereens Set to Rock La Rosa Arts Center

Legendary New Jersey band brings their hits to Tucson for a standing-room-only show.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Smithereens, the iconic New Jersey rock band, are set to perform at the La Rosa Arts Center in Tucson, Arizona on Thursday, March 12th. The band, now in their late 60s, is still going strong and bringing their classic hits to audiences. Led by guitarist Jim Babjak, the band has been playing together since the 1980s and is known for their energetic live shows.

Why it matters

The Smithereens have maintained a loyal following over the decades, with their music resonating with both longtime fans and a new generation discovering the band through their parents. This concert at the La Rosa Arts Center is an opportunity for Tucson music fans to experience the band's timeless sound and high-energy performance.

The details

The Smithereens will take the stage at 7:30 PM on March 12th for a standing-room-only show at the La Rosa Arts Center. Tickets are priced at $44.67. The band, which formed in 1980, features three of the four original members - guitarist Jim Babjak, bassist Mike Mesaros, and drummer Dennis Diken. The group is known for hits like "A Girl Like You" and "Blood and Roses," and they plan to focus on playing their classic songs rather than debuting new material.

  • The Smithereens formed in 1980.
  • The band will perform at the La Rosa Arts Center on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 7:30 PM.

The players

The Smithereens

An iconic New Jersey rock band that has been performing together since the 1980s, known for their high-energy live shows and classic hits.

Jim Babjak

The guitarist and co-founder of The Smithereens, who has been playing with the band since its formation in 1980.

Mike Mesaros

The bassist and singer for The Smithereens, who has been with the band since its early days.

Dennis Diken

The drummer and percussionist for The Smithereens, who has been playing with Jim Babjak since they were high school freshmen in 1971.

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What they’re saying

“We're not dried up, we just love to play, love, love to play.”

— Jim Babjak, Guitarist, The Smithereens (tucsonweekly.com)

“Dennis and I go back to 1971, we were freshmen in high school and that's how long we've been playing together. When I show him a song I'll just play it for him and he knows what to do. I don't have to tell him anything.”

— Jim Babjak, Guitarist, The Smithereens (tucsonweekly.com)

“At first he tried to tell me what he wanted me to do. I'm like, 'Pat, I'm not good at following directions. I don't know what you're talking about.' Right from the beginning I did it my way; we all did. That was the process.”

— Jim Babjak, Guitarist, The Smithereens (tucsonweekly.com)

What’s next

Tickets for the Smithereens' show at the La Rosa Arts Center on March 12th are on sale now and expected to sell out quickly.

The takeaway

The Smithereens' upcoming concert at the La Rosa Arts Center is a rare opportunity for Tucson music fans to experience the enduring power of this iconic New Jersey rock band. With their catalog of timeless hits and energetic live performances, the Smithereens continue to captivate audiences decades after their formation.