ROCKINGHAM — Cole Plaza is about to get funky.
Making another appearance in the Plaza Jam summer concert series, Chocolate Chip and Company will take the stage Thursday in downtown Rockingham.
The band, fronted by Tony Howard, who goes by Chocolate Chip, will be performing a variety of rhythm and blues, rock, beach, soul, hip hop and funk.
According to the band’s website, Howard started playing drums at 6 years old and has been entertaining crowds since the ‘70s.
Howard has the freedom to move around with a small, triangle-shaped electric drum kit strapped across his chest and a headset mic, instead of being stuck behind a kit.
Prior funk-filled set lists included “Celebration” and “Ladies Night” by Kool and the Gang, along with tunes from Barry White, Chaka Khan and Earth Wind and Fire, in addition to several rock and country songs.
Plaza Jam got off to a late start for the 2026 season, with Craig Woolard and the Embers having to reschedule to later in May due to weather.
Other bands on this year’s schedule are:
July 2 - Gary Lowder and Smokin’ Hot
Aug. 6 - The Blackwater Band
Sept. 3 - The Tams
Oct. 1 - Too Much Sylvia
Each show runs from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public.
