www.montereycountynow.com JULY 9-15, 2026 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 31 MUSIC For two decades, The Money Band has been a powerhouse on the Monterey County music scene, earning multiple awards, including Best Local Band in the Weekly’s readers’ poll on multiple occasions. They didn’t earn their reputation as local legends by playing it safe. Early in their career, the band caught a break when they were asked to play the volunteer tent at Pebble Beach. The event’s host, Hollywood icon Bill Murray, handed the microphone to lead vocalist Zoe Alexander with a simple, “Break a leg.” Taking that energy to heart, the band delivered an unforgettable table-dancing performance that helped put them on the regional map. Since that night, Money Band has grown into a hyper-polished, zero-ego entertainment machine. Alexander credits the band’s success to two things: musicianship and genuine camaraderie. That philosophy extends to every performance. They don’t just play a set of covers—they’re there to entertain. Alexander emcees the show, gets audiences involved and can change songs on the fly based on how the crowd responds. The band likes to attack the music, putting an edge on familiar songs rather than simply recreating them. The band blends genres, experiments with mashups and isn’t afraid to change the tempo if it gets people onto the dance floor. One of Alexander’s favorite recurring performances is Festa Italia at Custom House Plaza. “As far back as you could see, everyone was singing every word and cheering the whole time,” he says of the 2025 show. “It was a magic night. You leave with such joy.” Which brings us to the Big Hat BBQ. Now in its 113th year, the Monterey County Sheriff’s Posse fundraiser draws nearly 10,000 people. It’s a crowd that comes ready to party. “They like us because we play both dance and country,” Alexander explains. “We change the tempo on high-energy pop songs to turn them into good line dancing songs.” Alexander has a penchant for punchy and unexpected mashups: “Brick House/Give It Away,” “Play That Funky Music/Bust a Move,” and “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll/My Own Worst Enemy.” It’s not what most people expect to line dance to. That’s the point. The Money Band at Big Hat BBQ, 5-10pm Friday, July 10. Sheriff’s Posse Grounds, 395 Old Natividad Road, Salinas. $45. montereycountysheriffsposse.com. KEITH EUBANKS Bank Notes The Money Band continues to set the standard for cover bands in the county. By Tonia Eaton The Money Band is (left to right) Steve Moseley, Chris Miller, Zoe Alexander and Zach Westfall. MO MANDEL RYAN RODRIGUEZ DAUOOD NAIMYAR JOIN US FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE NIGHT OF COMEDY LIVE FROM THE BARREL ROOM. FRIDAY JULY 24 www.folktalewinery.com MORE GREAT TICKETED EXPERIENCES COMING SOON Bubbles, Brunch & Beats Dine in The Vines An elevated brunch experience accompanied by smooth grooves. Fine dining paired with amazing wines among a beautiful setting in the vines. DAUOOD NAIMYAR MO MANDEL RODRIGUEZ
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