The West Columbia River-walk Amphitheater overflowed into the parking lot.

Tokyo Joe filled the air with music as the Rhythm on the River free concert series drew its largest crowd ever Friday night.

An estimate of the crowd was 1,000 or more.

“I’ve been to all the shows for the 15 years we’ve been having them,” said Steve Cohen, Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce president. “This is the most people we’ve had here, ever.”

Richard Skipper, the Chamber’s executive director, said Tokyo Joe is a popular band with a large following. That helped pack in the fans.

“While I’m excited about the crowd turnout, I’m more excited about our sponsors and volunteers,” Skipper said.

“All of our sponsors play a huge part in this series. Without them there would be no way to continue to do a series that is free for everyone.

“I’m told we’ve had more chamber members volunteer for this series than they have ever had before. I really appreciate the support and buy-in I have received since becoming part of the chamber leadership eight months ago.”

“It was a beautiful night on the river,” Skipper said.

“Moving the shows to Friday from Sunday afternoon was a factor, too.”

Artist Trahern Cook painted a portrait of the band during the concert. Bill and Stevie Strange bought that painting at auction at the end of the show for $500. The proceeds benefit the West Columbia Beautification Foundation.

The free Rhythm on the River Fall Series is presented by House of Raeford and the City of West Columbia.

Chuck Underhill of House of Raeford attended with his wife Amanda.

Two more concerts in the fall series will be from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The band this Friday will be Gaslight Street and the Food Truck is Carolina Cookin’.

Oct. 19, Ashes of Old Ways and Emma Kate McLain will play. The Food Truck is Karen’s Mobile Kitchen.

Shuttle service is provided by the City of West Columbia.

The Shuttle locations are: Capital Square Shopping Center on Sunset Boulevard and the parking lot at 435 Meeting Street (behind Terra Restaurant.)

There is also public parking available at Moffatt Street Riverwalk Entrance (no trolley pick-up, bike and pedestrian access only.)