NYS Music 20​14

Category: State Fair

  • Closing out the Great NY State Fair in Style

    As I prepared for Day 11 at the Great NY State Fair, I looked forward to the closing out the day of music, some glitz and glamour with my Miss Syracuse ladies, and taking in all the exhibits, food, and festivities as the week-long Fair began winding down.  It had been the most amazing week for NYS Music staff members as we covered shows and events, and took in all the fun we possibly could so that we could share with our readers.  With the Grandstands holding its final concert the night before, I looked forward to the shows at Chevy Court and a local band who I had been wanting to see for a while this fine Sunday.

    First up at Chevy Court was MKTO, then I would be off to see  The Rick Short Band, and then I would finally get to check another off my bucket list, with the Phillip Phillips show.  Apparently I was not the only one with the Phillip Phillips show on a bucket list.  As I approached the photography area at Chevy Court, I learned that one young lady had been there since sunrise when her folks dropped her at the gates to get the perfect seats.  This was surely going to be a day to remember for her as she sat front and center with her friends, beaming from ear to ear that she would be first row center to see her favorites MKTO and Phillip Phillips.  Now that’s a fan.

    Day 11 

    MKTO – Who is MKTO you ask? MKTO has recently burst onto the pop music scene over the past few years with their hits “Thank You” and “Classic”. The duo, made of up Malcolm Kelley and Tony Oller, met while working together on Nikolodean’s show Gigantic.  

    These two extremely talented young men began jamming together and the duo was born.  Mixing pop, rap, and hip hop, their style is refreshing and energetic.  Their background in acting, their musical talent, and their dynamic stage presence is the perfect combination to be the next big thing.  Truly enjoyed watching them as they performed, and as they brought their young crowd to the feet singing and dancing along.  Have to admit, do love their song “Classic”; is catchy and sends a good message to the younger generation about the importance of keeping it classy.

    Set List: Could Be Me  > Forever Until Tomorrow > God Only Knows > American Dream > No More Second Chances > Heartbreak > Am I Wrong > Wasted > Nowhere > Get My Way > Hide Your Girl > Goodbye Song > Thank You > Classic

    Rick Short Band – Over the past few years I have tried to coordinate my schedule to be able to catch local favorites and good friend Rick Short and his band out and about.  Unfortunately until today it had eluded me.  With Tracy Bowens on vocals, Zach Calidonna on bass, Eddie Reilly on vocals and drums, Brian Tuttle on lead guitar, Callendra Comstock on vocals, and Rick Short on vocals and guitar, they played several songs that will be featured on their upcoming CD they are working on.  With an anticipated release somewhere in the spring, the group shared with the audience some of their upcoming releases to positive results.   His band, The Rick Short Band, specializes in what they call real rock and roll.  We certainly were rocked, and look forward to seeing them again.

    Phillip Phillips – Crowds began to gather for Phillips Phillips earlier than normal for this free show at Chevy Court.  After exploring the fairgrounds for the day I decided to stake my claim to a spot close by the stage for the evening. Taking possession much earlier than normally, I wasn’t alone in my thought process.  The immediate stage area was already spoken for, mainly by those who had seats from the earlier show.  So as I sat there partaking in one of my favorite past times, people watching, I witnessed something pretty special that made Phillip Phillips a pretty stand up guy in my book.  The security people, who by the way were awesome the whole fair, took notice of that young lady who had arrived at sunrise to see this show.  Notifying the management for Phillip Phillips, shortly before the show began they surprise her and escorted her back stage to meet him in person.  In tears and shaking, the young lady could barely walk to the back for the encounter.  As she returned from the occurrence, she was ear-to-ear smiles chattering away about what had just happened.  I just love seeing performers take notice like that and thank their fans who are so dedicated them.  The humility in it sets them apart in my book.

    Phillip Phillips who is best known as the winner of American Idol season 11, this young man has found a way to share his passion with the world, and we are certainly glad he has. With two albums under his belt, his song “Home” is the highest selling coronation song from any of the Idol winners to date. Phillip knew he had the music fever at the age of 14. Mentored by his brother-in-law,Benjamin Neil, Phillip pursued his passion in and around his hometown of Leesburg, GA playing with his brother in law’s band at local venues and events. Trying out for America’s Got Talent, he never made it to the final rounds. However this didn’t deter him, in fact it made him more determined to succeed, and off he went to audition for American Idol. Never in jeopardy of being eliminated during the competition, his talent shone through.

    As he played at Chevy Court, it was apparent to me that this 23-year-old young man was special. As Phillip Phillip took the stage, what occurred during this performance seemed almost magical in its energy.  I had covered the majority of the events over the course of the week, and as I began to watch him perform I was totally blown away. His enthusiasm and passion were transparent and you felt it as he performed. His stage presence and interactions with the audience just drew you in more. All the artists booked are talented, and I enjoy each and every performance, but WOW is all I can say about Phillip Phillips. He sang and played with a passion that mesmerized you. You literally felt the music as he played. Hands down this was my favorite performance of the Fair. He had me at hello.

    The special passion and energy didn’t end at the edge of the stage either.  One special couple took this opportunity to celebrate their special moment with the entire audience as Phillip Phillips played along. Yep, this show was special for sure.

    Set List: Lead On > Get Up > Raging Fire > Unpack > Where We Came From > Gone > Man On The Moon > Trigger > Fly > Lillipop > Fool’s Dance > Home

    Day 12 – $1 Day

    Well as the Fair came to a close on Labor Day, they decided to try something new this year by offering $1 entrance, $1 rides, and many vendors charged $1 for favorite food items.  As this new concept was born, it’s one I believe will live a long life as the record that was broken after twenty-five years the previous Saturday, was once again broken.  122,870 people took advantage of the final day at The Great NY State Fair.

    Doobie Brothers – Closing out Chevy Court were the  legendary Doobie Brothers.  This multi-talented group has demonstrated their longevity and perseverance in the music business by doing exactly what they love, making great music.  With a blend of blues, soul, R&B, and rock ‘n’ roll, these multi-talented award-winning musicians just continue to make great music and rock their audiences.  The band has produced 3 multi-platinum, 7 platinum and 14 Gold albums; with five top 10 singles and 16 top 40 hits.

    This ever evolving group, has proven over the course of the years that no matter what changes occur within the band, within the music industry, or within the world, being true to their sound and making music their way, produces music with a heart that their tried and true fans, and an ever evolving new fan base just love.  Touring now with the band we have Tom Johnston – guitars, keyboards, harmonica, vocals, Patrick Simmons – guitars, banjo, flute, vocals, John McFee – guitars, harmonica, dobro, pedal steel, violin, vocals, John Cowan – bass guitar, vocals, Guy Allison – keyboards, backing vocals, Marc Russo – saxophones, Ed Toth – drums, and Tony Pia – drums, percussion. I personally am looking forward to their newest album’s release around the beginning of November 2014.  In a collaborative effort with Nashville’s top country musicians, this album is already proving to be one of the most anticipated albums of the year.  This collaborative effort pushes the boundaries, and follows a trend of forging rock and roll and country music in a new direction.  The Doobie Brothers consider their music American Rock, and I wholeheartedly agree.

  • Burn It Down Tour Takes Over Grandstands at the Great NY State Fair

    As day ten of The Great New York State Fair rolled in, it was destined to be a huge day. Skies were blue, temperatures perfect, and the day had a line up that made country music fans salivate…in fact it was the only day the grandstands had sold out with more than 17,000 fans anticipating a night they won’t forget.  It was time for the “Burn It Down” tour to take center stage and you could already feel the heat.

    burn it down tour
    Jason Aldean – Great NY State Fair Grandstands

    Day 10-

    Uncle Kracker –Setting out a bit early to enjoy the day with my son and his friends, it was a godsend that we did as we got stuck in the hour-long traffic on 690 coming in to the Fair. My regular exit, Exit 7, had already been closed and parking was being diverted to the Exit 6 Orange Parking Lot. Getting nervous that I would miss the opportunity to photograph Uncle Kracker (as media is only allowed the first three songs generally), I stayed calm and snaked my way around the hundreds of cars to the far back parking areas. Seeing that the window of time was diminishing, I began to panic. All I can say at this point was THANK YOU PARKING ATTENDANT that allowed me to make my own parking space that day so that I could catch the bus to the front gate. I literally made it with less than two minutes to spare. I didn’t even care that my son his friends never noted where we parked so that later in the evening when we left it would take us a half hour to find the car. All was good. I made it on time.

    As I approached Chevy Court and as Uncle Kracker (real name Matt Shafer) took the stage, I noted a standing room only crowd. It was one of the largest afternoon crowds I had seen to date. Didn’t surprise me though as Uncle Kracker brings such an eclectic mix of music to his fans. His distinctive sound; raspy & sexy, lends itself perfrectly to a mix of country, rap, rock, and hip hop. Now with five albums under his belt and collaborations with such stars as Kid Rock and Kenney Chesney, it’s hard to believe that he began all those years ago as a DJ with his brother. He is an accomplished songwriter, performer, and his rapport with the crowd was entertaining as he bantered back and forth. Notable (and favorite) moments of the show had to include his mash-up of Steve Miller’s “Joker” into Jim Croce’s song “Bad, Bad, Leroy Brown”, and his remake of “Drift Away” originally by Dobie Gray. His spin brought the crowd to their feet and a smile to their faces. In fact all of his songs tend to be upbeat and positive. Closing with his songs “Smile” and “All Summer Long” (co-written and recorded by friend, Kid Rock), you couldn’t help leaving Chevy Court in a good mood ready to tackle the crowds of the day.

    Set List: Heaven > Saturday Night > Good To Be Me > Little While > Better Days > Blue Skies > Follow Me > Stranger >Got That Thing/Leroy Brown > Sun Goes Down > Happy > Disasters > Drift > Smile > All Summer Long

    On this beautiful day as one meandered around the Fair you couldn’t help feeling like a small fish in a big sea. The crowds were massive. On Day 10, 120,617 individuals made their way through the gates breaking all previous records held for 25 years. In fact, on this day, the statistics show that the Great NY State Fair was the place to be.

    • Paid Parking Number – 23,010 which is the most the parking supervisor can recall in his more than a quarter century at the fair
    • Attendance for sold out Jason Aldean/Florida Georgia Line/Tyler Farr show : 17,050
    • $1 baked potatoes sold: 4,753
    • 25 cent milk tickets sold 34,510
    • Gallons of chocolate milk sold at Rainbow Bar 1,508 (sold out by 8:30pm)
    • Number of Twinx (Twix bar in a Twinkie wrapped in bacon and deep-fried with a sprinkling of powdered sugar) sold at the Fried Specialties two booths: 1,140 about double any other day, says owner Jim Hasbrouck
    • Number of cups of beer and soda sold at the grandstand Saturday night approximately 18,500
    • Number of rides taken on the Wade Shows Midway 122,781

    As I made my way through the sea of people towards the Grandstands it seemed that the wave of people would never end as they entered in the pre-requisite dress code of cowboy boots, cowboy hats, and either red white and blue or camouflage attire. It was proof that the Mason Dixon Line no longer exists and all things country are embraced right here in Central NY.

    Tyler Farr – First up was Tyler Farr, one of country music’s newest and most promising acts of 2014. Being the second time I covered one of his shows, I couldn’t wait to see him and his awesome band perform once again. Just love taking photos of Gary, his guitar player who sports one of the greatest Mohawks out there. The one thing that stands out about Tyler Farr is his love of his audience. NYS Music unfortunately couldn’t coordinate our anticipated interview with Tyler for this show/article due to his busy schedule, but had we been able to I was planning to award him my official “Audience Appreciation” award. The first of its kind, and one that is not given out to just anyone. The first time I covered a Tyler Farr show was at the Taste of Country Festival down at Hunter Mountain in the Catskills. For the entire weekend, one young man in the audience wore a turkey decoy on his head. You couldn’t help but notice, you couldn’t help but admire his audacity, and you couldn’t help but wonder about him. I can’t tell you how many artists came out to perform on Friday and Saturday that had to have seen him. Then on Sunday when Tyler came out, he immediately called out the dude and told him “he was his new best friend”. Those things resonate with me as a journalist. I look to capture the interaction between the performer and audience and feed off of that energy for photos and my reviews. It was duly noted.

    Fast forward now to this show, and once again Tyler Farr proved to me he’s all about his audience as he came right out into the crowd to perform amongst them, bringing the reason he’s where he is, down to earth again, with his fans. Not only did he bring it down to this fans, he gave a shout out to the sound and stage crew that work tirelessly during shows to make it all happen seamlessly. This young man does not put himself up on pedestals, so for this very reason I will place you up on one as a star. Humility is a wonderful character trait, and remembering what it’s all about in the fast paced music business is difficult to do. He is one individual you will hear more about as time goes on. His musical abilities, songwriting capabilities, and stage presence will be making this new artist one of country music’s future stars. I know he’s one of mine.

    Florida Georgia Line – To say I was excited about the next two acts was an understatement. This would be the first time I had the opportunity to cover a Florida Georgia Line show. Well, they certainly lived up to my expectations. These two young men are two of the most energetic performers out there. They came out with a bang, singing, dancing, sending the crowd into a frenzy. If you were in the pit this evening, there is no doubt that you got to shake hands with one if not both as they did everything they could to reach out to everyone. I was totally impressed by them. True class act. Working the stage every minute of every song, they belted out favorites “Round Here”, “Shine On”, “This Is How We Roll”, Dirt”, and “Cruise” to name only a few on their set list. But it wasn’t until they began “Party People” that they took the crowd over the top as the crowd joined Tyler & Brian singing, cheering, and screaming alongside them and the band. High energy doesn’t begin to describe the electricity you felt from the performance. Power surge was more like it.

    Jason Aldean – Jason Aldean’s Burn It Down Tour of 2014 has been sold out from coast to coast. With fire spewing all around him, Jason enters the stage, slowly rising on a platform from down below. As the form of the shadow appears with his cowboy hat tucked down over his eyes amidst the explosions and flames, it was apparent why this show has been deemed as one of the best tours of the year. This superstar sure knows how to make an entrance. For Jason Aldean, it’s not just all show, he can back this pomp and circumstance up with the music and the talents needed to classify him as one of today’s country superstars. With twelve number one hits, record selling albums, numerous nominations and awards from American Music Awards, Billboard, Country Music Association, Country Music Television Awards, Academy of Country Music, Teen Choice Awards, People’s Choice Awards, and The Grammy’s, Jason Aldean has made his mark on Nashville, and in the record books as a country legend.

    With his new album Old Boots, New Dirt right on the verge of release, it’s already hitting the charts with it’s first released number one single “Burnin It Down”. With a few more sneak peeks being released such as “Two Night Town,” “Sweet Little Something” and “Gonna Know We Were Here”, it’s only a matter of time that the number one hits and awards blazing their way through the charts for this album as well.

  • Hot with Sweater Weather at the NY State Fair

    It was ironic to say the least, but perfect blue skies and sunshine were the backdrop for a band best known for their song “Sweater Weather”. This past Friday afternoon, the California indie rock band known as The Neighbourhood killed it on the stage of Chevy Court at the Great NY State Fair.

    Sweater WeatherEven though they formed in 2011 and are relative newcomers to the music scene, the band was welcomed by fans as they took the stage to screams and applause. For just under an hour, this group of musicians gave a performance with their unique sound. The band has strong characteristics that come through in every song. They flawlessly combine an upbeat, pop rock style with catchy lyrics and sexy groove. Then, they top it off with just enough dark/mysterious edge that singer Jesse Rutherford’s vocals capture perfectly. The sensual tone in his voice is something so many strive to achieve, yet he does without any effort.

    Chevy Court is in the heart of the Fair, surrounded by the buildings, people could enjoy the music as they walked between exhibits, activities, wine/moonshine slushy stands, beer gardens, and about the best fried food on the planet (Fried Specialties had the most incredible creation called the Twinx (Twix, stuffed inside a Twinkie, wrapped in bacon, and then deep-fried – Jim Hasbrouck you are genius).

    These guys drew fans of all ages. However, these young men definitely had a strong fan base of females. The teenaged and 20-ish girls were heart-felt and passionately screaming at the band “I love you!”.

    The attendees showed their appreciation for this free show by their pure energetic reaction to the melodies being shared with them. The excitement was due largely to the frontmans’ ability to get the audience engaged and participating – from raising their hands in the air to singing along with him.

    Lead singer, Jesse Rutherford, smirked and absorbed his fans adoring yells with ease and a sense of cool aloofness that seem to make the girls want him more. As the first song “Female Robbery” started, the singer covered his face with his tattooed-covered arm, protecting his eyes. He later stated they had not seen the sun recently since they had been in Europe, chuckling, followed by saying, “This is awesome”.

    Keeping true to their “look” of being a clean, monochromatic aesthetic, all members wore black and white with Rutherford somehow wearing a black beanie on the hot sunny day. The pale skin tone along with asking the audience to pretend it was night, leads me to believe these guys do not get to see daylight all that much. That did not inhibit their performance or energy.

    A subtle demeanor from guitarist Jerry Freedman during his solo on the song “Baby Came Home” had a powerful, confident playing that captured the mood. Soft lingering notes seemed to float from the stage into the air, carrying them away in the imaginations of what the song meant to each person.

    Their new song “Dangerous” was laid out in their set. While it kept with the band’s sound, it had a different groove and feel to make you want to find out what else they have in store next. This is a band to keep an eye on and watch bloom and boom into the music scene even more.

    Set List: Female Robbery, Everybody’s Watching Me (Uh-Oh), Let It Go, Jealou$y, W.D.Y.W.F.M.?, Baby Came Home, A Little Death, Wires, How, Lurk, Dangerous, Sweater Weather, Afraid

  • Joan Jett and The Black Hearts Rocked The Chevy Court at The Great New York State Fair

    The New York State Fair is always brining fantastic artists to Central New York. This year they struck gold when Rock And Roll Hall of Famers Joan Jett And The Blackhearts performed for free at the Chevy Court stage at the Great New York State Fair on Wednesday, August 27.

    Joan Jett and The Black Hearts – Great New York State Fair Chevy Court

    There was easily about seven thousand fairgoers gathered for their hour and fifteen minute set. No opening act. No nonsense. Just straight up classic punk. Currently, Joan Jett And The Blackhearts are touring in support of their latest album, Unvarnished. There were five songs off that album sprinkled into their set, along with their more notable hits and The Runaways’ classics.

    The band opened with “Bad Reputation” and The Runaways’ classic “Cherry Bomb”. Joan Jett is clearly on her A game and sounded better now than she did seven years ago when she played the state fair the previous time. And very notably, the band was clicking on all cylinders as well. Keyboardist Kenny Laguna, guitarist Dougie Needles, drummer Thommy Price, and bassist Acey Slade all showed great chemistry and great backing vocals to the entire performance.

    Some of the bigger highlights of their set would have to be “Touch Me There”, a new song that she co-wrote with Dave Grohl titled “Any Weather”, and her cover of “Crimson and Clover”, which the crowd went nuts for. Also, the crowd went crazy for “I Love Rock and Roll” as expected.

    The band ended with a three-song encore, featuring “Reality Mentality”, “Real Wild Child”, and a cover of “Everyday People”

    Overall it was a great show, and possibly the best Chevy Court concert in YEARS.

  • Rockstar Uproar Rocks The Great New York State Fair, Despite Poor Weather and Lukewarm Ticket Sales

    It was a rainy and miserable day on August 22 at the Great New York State Fair. However, some great hard rock rolled through the grandstand. There were some problems going into the show. First and foremost, Seether, Buckcherry, and These Raven Skies DID NOT appear at this stop due to outside conflict of interest, which may have hurt the ticket sales. On top of that, there seemed to be a lack of promotion behind this show. I would be worried if Rockstar Uproar will stop in Syracuse next year.

    Doors originally were supposed to open at 2pm that day, but due to the amount of bands that pulled, the show started at 3pm. The first set of bands performed on the smaller “Festival Stage” which was set on the dirt track right next to the grandstand stage. I did like how the vender tents and autograph tents were positioned on the far side of the track. The stage itself looked and sounded great. There was only one problem. Dirt track and rain is a messy situation. But bloody hell, it’s rock and roll. The first band Blame Anchor did a fine job opening the set. There must have been only 400 people when they started. Blame Anchor was the band that won the battle of the bands competition to be part of Rockstar Uproar. I think their fifteen minutes of fame pending the rest of the tour will pan out for them. Blame Anchor played a very short set, but made it count. They had a Godsmack vibe to them.

    Bad Seed Rising played their half hour set. They’re just kids, but they impressed. It’s really hard for bands in their teens to really take off with rock and metal, but I believe Bad Seed Rising can make it in this harsh industry if they stick to their guns. They’ve got some real heart and talent.

    Canada’s Sons Of Reverly are definitely the odd band out of this line up, which is not a bad thing. It just shows they got something to prove as they’re an unsigned indie band. They were the winners of last year’s Rockstar Uproar battle of the bands. This year they made it on to a permanent slot. The fascinating thing about watching them is how they eventually won the crowd completely over by the end of their set. They seem to have a little flavor of Rush, but they have some heavy songs and songs that people can relate too. I would imagine this band will be signed within the next year. I had the privilege of interviewing them after their set.

    Tattered and Three Years Hollow played good and heavy sets, but it was festival stage headliners Escape The Fate that really made that stage explode and laid the foundation. They played a fast and heavy set and egged on the crowed, too, to get them going. Clearly, a hungry band that continues to grow and make an impact on the radio and on the road. It was surprising they were not on the main stage because they clearly belonged there on this tour. By the time Escape The Fate finished, there must have been about three thousand people in attendance. Not exactly staggering numbers for a grandstand show at the fair, but the people who were there were lucky to see Escape The Fate perform.

    After Escape The Fate graced the stage and the festival stage closed down, Pop Evil opened the main stage. There was only one problem. It was almost an hour before Pop Evil started. I understand setting up the stage and production is hard work, but there was no reason for it be that long. Especially the fact that this show had two stages. But despite the long wait, Pop Evil clicked on all cylinders and was definitely a highlight of the entire show. Their set consisted of songs from all three of their albums. Songs like “100 In A 55”, “Dance With The Devil”, and “Last Man Standing” were great and had awesome performances. Pop Evil is certainly making big splashes and really solidifying themselves as a premiere headlining act.

    Because of the shortage of bands that were originally billed, it was yet another long ridiculous wait for Skillet. It may have been worth it though as Skillet was easily the best band on the bill. They’re production was bigger than it ever was. They had violinists on stage with them too; it was such a spectacle. There was a lot of energy put into their performance, and it was a nice change of pace to hear music with a positive message too. Skillet played most of their hits, but the song that stood out the most was definitely “Awake and Alive”, which had a slightly different take on it than we are used to hearing. I did find it a little odd that Skillet, who are strong Christian believers, were on the same bill with Godsmack because Sully Erna is a member of the Church of Satan. But it’s about the music, not the beliefs.

    Godsmack, of course, headlined the show. Now don’t get it twisted, Godsmack ALWAYS puts on a great show. Even if they’re off a little on a night, you’re always going to get a great show from them. Now, I have seen Godsmack multiple times. For the past decade, the band has been no stranger to Syracuse and the rest of Upstate New York, so I’m sure there are a lot of people who have seen them multiple times. That being said, they seem to have lost a little fire in their performance that night. It was still a great show, but the energy that I am used to seeing from Godsmack over the years, I did not see at Uproar. Most notably in lead guitarist Tony Rombola. He’s very talented and was a nice guy when I met him a few years back, but it just seemed he lacked the passion he used to have on stage. I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt though as maybe it was an off night or that the band is a little rusty from taking the last couple of years off. As far as their set, it was a good mixture of their classic hits and some songs off of their latest release 1000 HP. Of course, the one thing that stood out during the show was the dual percussion solo between Sully Erna and Shannon Larkin. Always enjoyable to see. And during “Whatever”, Erna threw beers at the crowd and invited some fans on stage – most notably the guy with the HUGE afro that fascinated Erna. It was pretty amusing.

    Overall, it was a good lineup, but could have been so much more if Seether and Buckcherry were able to make the bill. I think fans would have gotten a much better bang for their buck and the show would have had MUCH better attendance.

  • The Great New York State Fair – There Is a Reason It’s Called “Great”

    This year’s Great New York State Fair is adding up to be one spectacular event with headlining shows at the Grandstand and Chevy Court venues, while the regional stages offer a diverse mix for music lovers of all genres. Taking place for 12 days and nights – August 21-September 1, 2014.

    The Great NY State Fair is appropriately named as Syracuse, NY was the site of the nations very first State Fair back in 1841. The fair traveled for the next 47 years amongst New York State cities until finding its final home in Syracuse in 1890; when the Syracuse Land Co. donated its current 100 acre property. Originally held to promote agricultural improvement and local farm and home, the fair has evolved over the years to feature not only these items, but also to promote both local musicians and national musicians as they celebrate traditional customs and cultures of regional areas and attract families to the event. In 1972, Sonny & Cher’s performance broke all concert attendance records, holding the record until 2009 when Shinedown’s concert of 15,000 strong exceeded the record, only to be ousted once again in 2011 when Bruno Mars drew more than 35,000 concert goers to Chevy Court. Can any acts beat that attendance record this year? It could happen I believe with the stellar line up being offered.

    In addition to multitude of fair like attractions; i.e. livestock, carnival rides, competitions for home-made goods and wares, and of course fried everything, the New York State Fair also offers five stages throughout the fairgrounds featuring the most diverse collection of music and entertainment for all attendees.  The State Fair Grandstand is the largest venue hosting the powerhouse performers and events each evening, while Chevy Court is an attendee favorite as huge acts come to perform for the fairgoers free of charge right inside the main gates twice a day. The Midway Music Series features acts on the west side of the fairgrounds over by the Midway carnival rides showcasing national and regional performers of all sorts throughout the entire day, while the Regional Artists Variety Stage features special regional artists and acts from our great state. The Empire Theater Stage is located inside at the Art & Home Center and features a multitude of talent from special speakers, to performers, and dancers all day long inside the cover of the Art & Home Center Building.

    NYS Music Music Guide will be there throughout the week to highlight as many shows as possible for our readers. With acts all over the grounds at the same time, our team will try to bring to you a diverse mix of national, regional, and local entertainment throughout the week with sneak peek photos, social media uploads, and a full review of shows, interviews, and photo galleries we are able to document.

    Overview of  Venue Lineups –

    Grandstands – For dates, times, and ticket information please go online to www.nysfair.org

    Brad Paisley/Randy Houser/Leah Turner/Charlie Worsham – This amazing line up has been touring this summer bringing down the house in venues all over the nation.  Each one of these acts are favorites in country music and to have all four together is a real treat and a must see lineup for everyone.  Brad Paisley shreds like a rock star, Randy Houser still has me floored with how he showed up at Taste of Country after his bus broke down and did the most amazing acoustic set I have ever seen, while Leah Turner rocks the stage like a country superstar, and one of the most loved new artists Charlie Worsham gives so much back to his fans that it’s no wonder he’s a fan favorite.

    Carrie Underwood – Super excited to have this sensational powerhouse here this year.  One of the first to be announced, the anticipation of her arrival performing at the Grandstands mounts daily.

    Journey/Cheap Trick – Both amazing rock and roll bands, their music spans generations of fans bringing to Central NY one amazing rock show.  These bands are timeless and it is bound to be packed.
    Uproar – Entire Lineup of Bands was featured in NYS Music ‘s recent preview article.  Have you seen it yet?  This will be one full day of energy and mayhem. Mark my words.

    Train/Wallflowers – Having Train and the Wallflowers together totally is mind-blowing and has me in high anticipation of this show as these two Grammy award-winning groups will absolute blow the roof off the stage. Can’t wait. Forget San Franciso, just save me.

    Jason Aldean/Florida Georgia Line/Tyler Farr -Wow is all I can say about this trio of acts.  Some of the biggest names in country music on the stage on the same night?  Each should be headlining their own shows, and together they are a winning trifecta. Definite winning bet.

    Kid Rock with Big Smo – This multi talented musician has made leaps across genres bringing to audiences everywhere an amazing eclectic sound.  Opening with Big Smo, who is categorized as an american country rap musician, what an awesome combo.

    Pitbull – The 315 can’t wait to welcome the 305 to the state fair this year as this international superstar fires up the stage at the fair.

    CHEVY COURT – for dates and times please go online to nysfair.org

    Jason Derulo – Can he possibly break the record set in 2011? I’m betting on this one.

    Kellie Pickler – Opening the stage for the first show, this country superstar will get this party started.

    Joan Jett and the Blackhearts – Nothing is cooler than a rocking chick with a guitar, and Joan Jett is the epitome of rock and roll.

    Angie Johnson – Up and coming country artist Angie Johnson is best known as part of Cee Lo Green’s team on The Voice, but what makes this young lady so special is her dedication to her country as part of our military.

    Eli Young Band – This highly popular country band has been topping the charts over the past eight years, and for those who have not had a chance to experience the  Eli Young Band, you are in for a treat.

    Uncle Kracker – Hugely popular country musician, Uncle Kracker is one of those musicians that can leap across genres with the ease of spiderman.  Love that voice.

    MKTO – These two young men share their talents in not only stage but screen.  Emerging pop duo hit the charts already with “Classic”, can’t wait to see what else is on their new album.

    Phillip Phillips – Hard to believe Phillip Phillips just won Idol only two years ago.  Since that time he’s released two albums hitting the charts and making his way in the business as a veteran now.

    Barenaked Ladies – This Canadian rock band certainly has a way of bringing to life their music in a fun-loving, quick quitted, fast paced manner, that makes it fun to experience.

    Smash Mouth – California-based rock band, Smash Mouth has a unique way of bringing to life covers as well as their own original music that has an effect on your feet that can’t stop them moving around in time to the music.  Strange…very strange.

    The Bacon Brothers – Okay, who’s with me on this one?….Is there anything better than Bacon?  Okay maybe two of them then.  I stand corrected.

    Sean Kingston – This dynamic Jamaican based musician brings the tropics together with the asphalt jungle mixing music in a way that moves his audiences.

    Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone – Original lead vocalist will bring audience members back to their 60’s roots with hits such as “Mrs. Brown You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter” and “There’s A Kind of Hush”

    Bowser’s Rock and Roll Party – Like to travel back to the ’50s Bowser certainly has a way of transporting you with his Rock and Roll Party

    Night Ranger – Turning the volume back up with Night Ranger is just what the audience will love as they belt out hits such as “Sister Christian”

    Chef Anne Burrell – Originally from the central New York region (Cazenovia), it’s a pleasure to welcome back Food Network host and great Chef Anne Burrell.

    The Neighbourhood – It’s fitting to have the band who plays “Sweater Weather” come to upstate NY and share their talents. We promise to keep it cool without the need for any sweaters.

    Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes – Jersey based rock group, this band has been making music with the likes of Steve Van Zandt and the Boss and Jon Bon Jovi over the years.

    Bell Biv Devoe – When talking about R&B and Hip Hop in the 90’s you can’t help but think of Bell Biv Devoe.  Again, it does something to your feet, where twitching begins and movement takes over.

    John Kay & Steppenwolf – Classic rock at it’s best, these guys were “Born to Be Wild” and CNY is ready to be wild right along with them.

    The Doobie Brothers – No introduction is needed for this group.  This group is considered timeless rock, and deservedly so.

    As you meander around the fairgrounds don’t forget to stop in at the Region Artists Variety Stage, The Midway Music Stage, and the Empire Stages to get a taste of local and regional music and performers. Looking to see dancers, don’t miss the Ukrainian Dancers, the Irish Dancers, or the Cloggers. For a special treat this year you can see the contestants from The Voice, three of the original Brady Bunch children, ice carving demonstrations, comedians from Chelsea Lately, a hypnotist, favorites from The Amazing Race and Big Brother, and variety of instrumentalists. As for music, there is something for everyone from Caribbean and Latin acts of One Black Voice and Panigma Steel Drum Bands, and Grupo Pagan, to Polka with Fritz’s Polka Band.  You’ll have Indian music with Veena & Devesh, and Folk/Americana Music with Mark Zane, Dark Hollow, Ruddy Well Band, and Big Eyed Phish.   If Country is more your thing fans will see John Anderson with Logan Brill  and Morgan Frazier, and newcomer Shannon Marie. For those into Hard-Rock/Rock  you’ll love Afterburn, Pacinello, Young The Giant, 4 Point 0, Mo Chester, and Action Item.  For a diverse mix, don’t miss these other regional favorites – Ferguson & Rogers, Margo Macero, Wagner Inc., Two Hour Delay, Ashley Allen with the Goonies, Cold Sweat Roc, Jenna Renae, Action Item, Bill Schmitt & The Bluesmasters, Until It’s Over There, Merry Mischief, Cash, Chris Dukes Band, Anthony Gargiula & The AG Dance Crew, Jason J., Megan & Liz With Heyday, The Lake Effect, the Rick Short Band, and Michael & Anjela Lynn featuring the Talented Ones.

    To find out more information about specials each day at the fair, purchasing tickets online, maps and directions, vendors, or schedule of events and competitions, please visit the Great New York State Fair webpage.