When Keith Pittman started playing in his father’s band, he couldn’t even get into some of its shows.

“We’ve had to sneak Keith into casinos and nightclubs when he was younger so we could play,” said Ken Pittman, lead singer of “Living on a Bad Name.”

Keith, a recent Dartmouth High grad who plays the drums and sings, along with father Ken and the rest of the band will perform at the Apponagansett Concert Series on Wednesday, August 19.

Though Keith is looking at both Lasell College in Newton and UMass Dartmouth in the fall, his father doesn’t expect him to miss much time.

“He’ll be playing for us regardless,” said the elder Pittman. “He won’t miss a beat.”

Known as one of the top Bon Jovi tribute bands around, the group has been together for five years, and found their name from Bon Jovi’s most successful album, "Slippery When Wet."

On the album were two of Bon Jovi’s biggest hits: “You Give Love a Bad Name” and “Living on a Prayer.”

“We wanted to make something that was catchy and also made fun of ourselves,” said Ken Pittman. “It worked out.”

According to Pittman, the band was formed solely for one purpose: performing a one time show for the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra’s fundraiser, “Rock Me, Amadeus,” which was held in April of 2010.

Pittman, who has been a radio personality at WBSM station since 2004, was lent a “world renowned guitar player” named Ethan Brosh, who teaches at Berklee College of Music.

“We went through a number of players [in the band],” said Pittman. “I think we found the right group though.”

Besides Ken, his son Keith, and Ethan, the group includes bassist John Miker and keyboard player Richie LeBlanc.

“Richie’s only been with us for one year,” said Pittman. “He’s developing well and I hope he’ll stay.”

Years after performing at the fundraiser, the group played at the New York State Fair for Bon Jovi himself when he had to back out of opening for Luke Bryan.

“We were humbled and honored for taking on that daunting task,” said Pittman.

The group has performed in venues from Maine to Florida, and has plans to head to Tampa, Florida to play at Ferg’s Live across from the Amalie Arena.

“It’s been a real amazing ride,” said Pittman, who now has six children and is trying to find enough time for everyone.

When browsing for places to perform, Pittman combs the internet for fairs, festivals, casinos, and any other events around the area, but says it’s local shows like the Apponagansett Concerts that have helped them become so successful.

“Without those beginnings, we wouldn't be where we are today,” said Pittman. “We’re really grateful for the support the South Coast has given to us.”