My Chemical Romance honored by the mayor in their home state

On August 9, multi-platinum emo rock group My Chemical Romance traveled to their home state of New Jersey to continue their live celebration of “The Black Parade.” The band’s hometown of Belleville, New Jersey, recognized them onstage during their performance at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. During their rendition of “Welcome To The Black Parade,” Belleville Mayor Michael Melham gave the band the keys to the township.

I have a very special and long overdue presentation to make… For those of you won’t know Belleville has a very storied musical history, from Connie Francis to Frankie Vallia nd The Four Seasons, to a band you may have heard of: My Chemical Romance. Belleville musicians have entertained millions worldwide. Their sound has shaped generations. Yet even in our storied history in Belleville; Revolutionary War soldiers, purple heart recipients, a Supreme Court Justice, various professional athletes. Never once in the history of Belleville that we ever handed out a key to the city. And that changes right now. It is my distinct honor to present My Chemical Romance with the keys to their hometown, Belleville, New Jersey. It’s long overdue. They deserve it, and Belleville couldn’t be prouder of them. Congratulations gentelmen.

In exchange, My Chemical Romance gave the mayor gifts of fish and grains from the “Draag” area. Below is fan-shot video of that interaction. In the second, more casual half of their performance, the band honored a fellow New Jerseyan by performing their first-ever version of Bon Jovi’s diamond-certified 1986 hit song, “Livin’ On A Prayer.” That version, which is also included below, was the group’s closing performance.