Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point, CA., and reggae rock/pop band Common Kings are partnering for a blending of music and golf. The oceanfront golf course and the Orange County-based band are collaborating on events, merchandise and music, with the band even rewriting one of their hit songs (“California Day”) to call out Monarch Beach.
Described as an American, Hawaiian, and Samoan reggae band that blends pop, rock, R&B, and island music, Common Kings has a unique sound that resonates with a wide audience. The four band members each are huge golfers and play at Monarch Beach on a regular basis. Longtime Monarch Beach Golf Links Food and Beverage Manager Katy Gorelick has been a fan of Common Kings music for years and became friends with them during their rounds at the course.
“We brought the idea (of a partnership) to Common Kings as we are always looking for new ways to make golf more exciting,” said Monarch Beach Golf Links Director of Player Development & Marketing Jackie K. Riegle, PGA. “We wanted to be their home course when they golf, when they are in town and in turn, we wanted the band to help us put the vibes of Monarch Beach into their music!”
This past June, Common Kings performed a private acoustic concert on Monarch Beach Golf Links’ third fairway at the Sun of a Beach Invitational. Common Kings & Shwayze’s hit song “California Day” – the version that calls out Monarch Beach – is currently featured on the course’s website and is part of the facility’s on-hold message. In addition, Common Kings logoed merchandise, including golf towels and golf balls, is now available in the golf shop. Moving forward, the partnership will include more Common Kings performances at Monarch Beach, music videos shot at Monarch Beach, charity golf tournaments, and an exclusive culinary event with the band developed by Gorelick and the facility’s F&B team.
“From the moment we stepped on to Monarch Links, we instantly were taken back to our piece of paradise growing up in the islands. From the greenery to the views along the coast, Monarch Beach Golf Links is our Hideaway whenever we need to get lost from the busy city life,” said Common Kings’ guitarist “Mata” Grey.
Monarch Beach Golf Links embraces all types of marketing partnerships and strategies, regularly hosting social media influencers to help share the Monarch Beach story with a broader audience. Troon Golf, the resort and daily fee division of Troon, manages Monarch Beach Golf Links.
“We believe Common Kings’ music perfectly complements the vibe at Monarch Beach, as both are crafted to help you unwind, relax, and enjoy the moment,” said Monarch Beach Golf Links General Manager and Southern California Section PGA President Eric Lohman. “We’re always trying to be creative and do things out of the norm. This new partnership with Common Kings is definitely unique for the golf industry.”
Monarch Beach Golf Links features a Robert Trent Jones, Jr.-designed golf course with sweeping Pacific Ocean views and dramatic sand bluffs. The 6,645-yard, par 70 course first opened for play in 1983. The course is located adjacent to Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club. Perched on 175 acres atop a 150-foot seaside bluff and featuring a private beach club, this elegant AAA Five-Diamond retreat is newly renovated and offers both indulgence and inspiration—from oceanfront culinary experiences to unique coastal activities and adventures.
Common Kings have released multiple albums, including the Grammy-nominated Lost in Paradise. They’ve toured with Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, Meghan Trainor, Fifth Harmony, and CeeLo.
Troon Golf, the resort and daily fee division of Troon, manages Monarch Beach Golf Links.
Photo: Common Kings (Troon Golf)