For the residents of Hudson, Massachusetts, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving has become synonymous with world-class rock and roll delivered in the most unassuming of settings. This year was no exception, as Extreme guitarist Nuno Bettencourt hosted his annual “Turkey Jam” at the Hudson Portuguese Club, bringing along Godsmack frontman Sully Erna for a night of high-octane covers.
The November 26 event, a beloved local tradition organized by the “Bettencourt Clan,” saw the two rock icons trading their arena productions for a loose, celebratory club atmosphere. The highlight of the evening came when Bettencourt and Erna, joined by Extreme drummer Kevin Figueiredo, tore through a pair of grunge and classic rock staples.
Erna, typically found behind the microphone for Godsmack, showcased his multi-instrumental roots during the set. While he handled lead vocals for a gritty rendition of the Alice In Chains anthem “Man In The Box“, he swapped the mic for drumsticks during a cover of Led Zeppelin‘s “Immigrant Song“. The performance saw Erna channeling John Bonham‘s thunderous rhythm while Bettencourt delivered the track’s signature staccato riffing.
The “Turkey Jam” has evolved from a family gathering into a must-see event for New England rock fans. Hosted annually during Thanksgiving week, the concert is designed as a homecoming celebration where Bettencourt and his musical family perform for friends, neighbors, and lucky ticket holders. Despite the casual vibe, the event frequently features heavy-hitting guests from Bettencourt‘s extensive contact list.
For Bettencourt, the show caps another busy year following the 2023 release of Extreme‘s album Six. The guitarist remains one of the industry’s most in-demand players, having built a resume that spans from glam metal stardom to serving as the lead guitarist for pop icon Rihanna.
Meanwhile, the appearance offers a rare glimpse of Sully Erna in a live setting following Godsmack‘s recent shift away from traditional touring. The band released their final studio album, Lighting Up The Sky, in 2023, and earlier this year announced the retirement of longtime members Tony Rombola (guitar) and Shannon Larkin (drums), signaling a move toward a quieter existence for the multi-platinum group.
Fan-filmed footage of the collaborations has surfaced online, and you can watch it down below.
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