NYS Music 20​14

Category: Utica

  • Utica Music and Arts Festival 2014 – Photo Gallery

    The Utica Music & Arts Festival is becoming what is considered a tradition to those in and around the Utica, NY area.  Those that attend just know to mark their calendars for that second weekend in September, in anticipation of one of the most eclectic mixes of music at some of the best Central NY music venues.  Musicians vie each year for the few select spots, and each year we are introduced to new acts with huge talents.  Eleven venues participated this year featuring music on both Friday night, all day Saturday, and into Saturday night.  The artists space was set up at the Utica Auditorium, featuring face painting, a magician, vendors, and an indie garage sale, all while local artists create their spectacular murals.

    Lukin’s Pizza, new to the Utica Music & Arts Festival this year, proved to be one of the most crowded venues as the UMAF kicked off the festival Friday night. Catching locals Pocket Change, a band whose sound is a melting pot of all their favorite genres rolled into one melodic beat, rocked the stage first with a warm mix of vocals and melodies as an appetizer of sorts for what was to come.

    Returning this year were fan favorites Nick Piccininni and Jason Barady from Floodwood who turned up the heat and beat with the crowd this opening night. Their unique and energetic music is always a promise to get the toes tapping and hands clapping. This feel good music is one reason why they are crowd favorites no matter where they play. Whether as solo artists or all together, Jason & Nick always bring the party.

    Following Nick and Jason were Driftwood, an Americana/Folk Music band from the Binghamton, NY area. These four musicians have evolved over the course of the years into one amazing group, keeping up the beat and the energy previously established this Friday night. Festival favorites and new to this attendee, they definitely have been added to the must see list of musicians when they come to town.

    When giving out awards for most unique sound and most fun, Shinobi Ninja, a mash up of Hip-Hop, Punk, Metal, and Pop, wins hands down. These rockers from Brooklyn were mesmerizing. Their head banging, rapping, hip hop style of music and vocals drew you in and hooked you. As they flipped their dreads, shredded like a heavy metal band, and rapped tunes such as the Beastie Boys, they totally rocked their crowd. Total fun is how to describe these performers.

    As Saturday rolled around, the fun continued down on Varick Street with UMAF favorites HafaSass, Mark Kroos, Miss Marlow, and Ryan Montbleau. The Nail Creek Pub was the venue to be at Saturday night as HafaSass set the stage for the night with their spunky sound.  Next up, Mark Kroos returned to a full house and shared his magic. If I had to describe Mark’s talent, it would have to be as a prodigy. This young man is one of the best guitar players I have ever seen. Shredding out the catchiest of tunes on a regular acoustic guitar and a double neck electric guitar, his sound is pure magic. His one man band is all it takes to thoroughly entertain and ramp up a crowd. His ability to produce sounds on a guitar that mimic a train whistle, while playing a melody and singing a tune at the same time just leaves the crowd flabbergasted each and every time they see it. As his YouTube video of “Dueling Banjos” went viral, he jokes of how can he possibly follow that up. As he shares his new compositions, showcasing his amazing abilities to play a double neck guitar, I guarantee he will one day surpass that expectation of “Dueling Banjos” with an arrangement solely all his own.

    Miss Marlow, another crowd favorite, is one of the most unique bands to frequent UMAF. Traveling all the way across the pond from the Netherlands to O’Donnels Pub on Varick Street, Miss Marlow is a four piece rock band whose signature sound can only be described as a mix of Led Zepplin, Stevie Nicks, and Heart all rolled into one rocking band. We are fortunate to have them each year and hope they continue to return.

    Closing out the festival this year was Ryan Montbleau. First time seeing him, I was intrigued about him as I could get nowhere near the stage to shoot any photos. This standing room only crowd, packed in like sardines, were ready for Ryan to wow them, as was I. As he took the stage, he did exactly that. His style was one I could listen too forever. His sound to me was unique. His voice, melodic and sexy. His humor, candid and witty. Joined on stage by UMAF favorite, Jason Barady on mandolin, all I can say is what a perfect pairing. Peanut butter and jelly had nothing on these two. Jamming together on song after song, Ryan and Jason played for hours to an entranced crowd. Ryan’s seamless ability to just pull songs out of a set list in his head was evidence that this music was a part of him, a natural ability to perform, and a sound he just shares as a natural gift. If I had to describe his style, it would be Modern Folk mixed with Indie Rock. Their performance together was a gift and the perfect way to close out another successful festival.

  • Dierks Bentley Announces Utica, NY as Part of Second Leg of #RISERTOUR

    Included in the first round of announced cities for Dierks Bentley’s second leg of his Risertour is Utica.  In a genius of a marketing concept, fans are asked to unlock the cities by sharing the announcement.  As the percentage of shares increase, so do the list of cities until all cities and details are announced.

    Dierks Bentley
    Dierks Bentley

    Dierks Bentley will be joined on this leg of the tour by Randy Houser, Eric Paslay, and Tim Hicks.  Fans in attendance at the Taste of Country Music Festival this past June at Hunter Mountain saw first hand the amazing job Randy Houser did in the 9th hour, putting on an acoustic show as his bandmates sat with the broken down bus on the side of a Pennsylvanian highway.  Also performing at the Taste of Country was Eric Paslay who is quickly making a name for himself in country music with hits such as “Song About A Girl” and “Friday Night” and wowing the audiences.  Canadian country star, Tim Hicks, will join the group north of the Mason-Dixon line and will learn first hand just how much these northerners love their country music and these superstars.

    Randy Houser
    Randy Houser
    Eric Paslay
    Eric Paslay

    tim-hicks_bw

    Stay tune to NYS Music.com for more information on RISERTOUR.

  • Enter The Haggis Once Again Tops it off at Saranac Brewery Thursdays

    Enter the Haggis has become a well-loved tradition and crowd favorite at Saranac Thursdays lineup.  The lads always draw a sell out crowd, and this year’s event continued the custom.

    Enter The Haggis - Saranac Thursdays
    Enter The Haggis – Saranac Thursdays

    These five musicians make up one of the most dedicated bands I’ve had the privilege to meet and work with over the last few years.  They are always giving back to their fan base, lovingly referred to as Haggis Heads.  One of the first bands I know to successfully take over their own management by using Kickstarter and Pledgemusic.com, they are now three albums into making music on their own terms, exploring new avenues and pushing their limits musically and creatively.  This is what makes Enter The Haggis so amazing; They are never stagnant and always looking ahead to new creative ways to bring messages of love, life, and family to their listeners.

    Enter The Haggis - Saranac Thursdays
    Enter The Haggis – Saranac Thursdays

    Anxiously anticipating their upcoming release of their latest project, The Penny Black Project, this album is going to be solely for their fans, as the music has all been inspired by the stories submitted by Haggis Heads. This band continues to push their limits and stretching their capabilities to bring about the most diverse sounds. Not categorizing them into any one genre but giving them a unique mix of all their influences over the years.  I think this is what is most appealing to me as a music lover.  Their lyrics tell a story, the music accentuates their mediums, their sound is never the same – they evolve. Over the years this is what translates into musical longevity.  Times change, current events change, technology changes, and music should follow and evolve in the same manner.  Enter The Haggis identifies with change and embraces the opportunity to bring to their fans a piece of themselves.

    Enter The Haggis - Saranac Thursdays
    Enter The Haggis – Saranac Thursdays

    As they took the stage at Saranac, the audience was ready to party along with the band as they played some of their best-loved songs.  It never ceases to amaze me how this band can pump up an audience to the point of frenzy with “Lannigan’s Ball” and “Gasoline”. Those numbers incite an almost riot and singing and dancing each and every time they play them.  However it was their encore number, “Long Way Home”, that left me speechless this time as it’s flavor was a mixture of sounds of celtic, bluegrass, and folk instrumentally and lyrically.  Not sure as I’ve ever heard them play that one before and I must add, “Wow!”  Hoping this is part of the new sound they are turning towards in the impending album, because it’s uniquely distinctive and appealing.

    Enter The Haggis - Saranac Thursdays
    Enter The Haggis – Saranac Thursdays

    As always, Enter The Haggis’s performance at Saranac was amazing to say the least, and the CNY fan base just absolutely loves them.  Stay tuned to NYS Music in the near future for a preview and interview with the band about their new project and what fans reactions are.  If interested in supporting the project please visit their site for more information on their new album and upcoming shows.

    Enter The Haggis - Saranac Thursdays
    Enter The Haggis – Saranac Thursdays
    Enter The Haggis - Saranac Thursdays
    Enter The Haggis – Saranac Thursdays

  • Umphrey’s Mcgee triUMPH over storm at Saranac Brewery in Utica 08/03

    Diehard fans brave the elements during the summer season to enjoy their favorite band and songs with good friends. Umphrey’s McGee fans proved this to be true after enduring heavy rains and thunderstorms this past Sunday, August 3 at the outdoor venue at the Saranac Brewery in Utica. Light rain started the evening, progressing to heavy rains with the occasional lightning strike and booming thunder. For everyone’s safety, the concert was delayed for two hours with fans seeking refuge in the Saranac Brewery, a reminder that there are worse places to be stuck indoors. With the delay of the show, Umphrey’s could only perform one set with a show time of 9PM vs 7PM and a curfew of 11PM but what a set it was.

    Umphrey's McGee. Photo by Bryan Lasky
    Umphrey’s McGee. Photo by Bryan Lasky

    Touring to support their latest and 8th album, Similar Skin, representing their new label Nothing Too Fancy Music. Umphrey’s played some fresh music as well as classic favorites. The show opened with a groovy and hard “Ringo” as bassist Ryan Stasik laid down a funky doo-wop and the band hit heavy rock peaks only to sway down to a jazzy melody from keyboardist Joel Cummins. “The Linear” saw crisp vocals from Brendan Bayliss and fast paced rhythms from Andy Farag and Kris Myers. The set got dark with a haunting “Morning Song” with echoes from Jake Cinninger guitar picking before going into an upbeat “Out of Order”. Among the many reasons to enjoy an Umphrey’s McGee show is the light show. Lighting Designer Jefferson Waful’s lights are truly stunning especially with the raindrops reflecting every glow. The dimensions of color, light symmetry and precise timing soar as high as the music does. Umphrey’s McGee treated soaked fans to a three song encore, the reggae easy flow of “FF”, the electrifying boogie of “Bad Friday” followed by the first and only cover of the night, David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance”.

    Umphrey’s McGee is a powerhouse of improvisational progressive rock clashed with classic metal and electronic funk. Fans can download this show and past shows from umlive.net. Be sure not to miss Umphrey’s McGee when they return to Upstate NY as part of their fall tour to the Rapids Theatre in Niagara Falls on Oct 23 and the Forum Theatre in Binghamton on Oct 29.

    Setlist: Ringo, #5 > The Linear, In The Kitchen, Morning Song > Out Of Order, Example 1, Educated Guess, Wappy Sprayberry > Eat
    Encore: FF > Bad Friday > Let’s Dance

  • America’s Got Talent Breakout Star Robert Channing Awes & Amazes Central New Yorkers

    What do 45,000 runners, Howard Stern, and Jimmy Fallon all have in common?  They were all blown away by the amazing talent of Robert Channing, spell binding mentalist and artist from New Hartford, NY.  Most recently seen on this season’s America’s Got Talent, Robert Channing wowed the judges and audience collecting four straight “Yeses” to move on into the next round on the NBC summer hit show.

    As Utica prepared for the 2014 Boilermaker Road Race, a worldwide event with runners from all continents, it only seemed fitting to have a worldwide star like Channing take the stage at the beautiful and grand Stanley Theater in Utica the night before to send off positive vibes for all those racing the following day.

    As Channing began his performance, he immediately won the audience over with his charismatic presence and quick wit.  His unique talents, albeit different, demonstrated both Robert’s creative mind and talents splendidly. After being blindfolded by two complete strangers, Robert showed off his inept intuitive ability to identify articles, individuals, and facts, stupefying the audience more and more as the show progressed. This mental capacity to call out things that nobody could possibly know is an amazing gift.

    Robert Channing - Mentalist/Speed Painter
    Robert Channing – Mentalist/Speed Painter

    As Channing wrapped up his show, the last two minutes were the most impressive.  To paint a painting is a talent not many of us can achieve, and if a time limit was added to that task, the result would most likely resemble a round of drawing during a game of Pictionary for most of us.  This was not the case for Channing as he painted and danced in a performance, captivating the audience and leaving them on the edge of their seat to see who the subject of this artwork would become. Literally within two minutes, Robert completed his painting, and in cloud of glittery dust, a still life of the iconic Marilyn Monroe came to life on the stage.

    Channing’s works of art have become highly collectable pieces, being sought after with prices upwards of $100,000.  As the artist performed for Heidi Klum, Mel B., Howie Mandel, and Howard Stern on AGT, the artwork came to life, and Howard, who is never at a loss for words, was stunned by this amazing creation,while the other judges were left in jealous awe of what they had just witnessed.

    Robert Channing - Mentalist/Speed Painter
    Robert Channing – Mentalist/Speed Painter

    I had the opportunity to interview Robert and found him to be the most interesting individual.

    Kathy Stockbridge (KS) – How long have you been sharing your mental abilities with audiences? When did you discover this gift?

    Robert Channing (RC) – Since I was five years old, I have been messing with not only my mind skills, but other people’s thoughts.  It’s 35% Extra Sensory Perception, 35% Showmanship, and the rest is dumb luck.

    KS:  What is your most memorable mental performance?

    RC:  Performing in Monaco for Billionaire Alex and Carrie Vik and their lovely family for a private event at his home on the ocean. My family and I were flown first class and performed two private shows for the Vik’s and their clients. Amazing Place!

    KS:  Have you found this gift to be one that you can use in everyday life to help others?

    RC: The gift that was given to me and helps me put smiles on people’s faces and provides me the ability to help people in need. So far, over the last five years, I have helped raise over $150 million for a charity called “Hunger to Hope” with YUM Brands! as a sponsor alongside President Bill Clinton, Maria Carey, and Christina Aguilera. Yum Brands! It is the largest food organization in the world.

    KS: What are some drawbacks being able to read others thoughts?

    RC:  My reading of minds is just that..a show. A show of what you can do if you just tap into your own mind’s ability. Scientists believe we only use a fraction of our minds in a lifetime.

    KS: How did you begin painting?

    RC:  In 1988-1989 I performed with a gentleman named Denny Dent who did a speed painting show called “Two Fisted Art Attack”, and his performance and energy along with his ability to inspire people motivated me to study him and this performance art form. I’ve had this doormat for a few years and decided after some trials and tribulations in my life to express myself with painting, creating extraordinary pieces of art for clients, celebrities, family, and friends.

    KS: How did this speed painting using glitter come to be? And how did you know it should be part of your performance?

    RC:  It was something that I created with my daughter as an art project, and one that I was inspired to perform on stage by the reactions of my test audiences who first fell in love with my glitter paintings.

    KS:  As a contestant on AGT, how did it feel to completely surprise the unsurprisable Howard Stern?

    RC:  Being on America’s Got Talent, it was an exhilarating experience that will never be forgotten.  To have Howard, Heidi Klum, Mel B., Howie Mandel, and Nick Cannon give me over a 2 1/2 minute standing ovation along with the packed audience of over 5,000 people at Madison Square Gardens in NYC, and to have Howard Stern join me on stage to sign and ask to own my painting, was like a beautiful dream that I could only imagine.  That it came true is amazing to me!

    For those of you who have yet to see Robert live, your chance is right around the corner.  He will be returning to The Stanley Center for the Arts once again, November 15, 2014.  Tickets will go on sale this Friday, July 18 at noon.  Patrons can get them online at www.mvcc.edu/tickets and www.thestanley.org, by phone at (315) 724.4000, or by visiting the Stanley Box Office. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the BELIEVE 271 FUND, which provides awareness, educational programming, and financial assistance to volunteer firefighters, EMTs, and Ladies Auxiliary members in Oneida and Herkimer Counties who suffer from a life threatening illnesses.  Don’t miss your chance to see the phenomenal Robert Channing and his amazing works of art come to life this fall at The Stanley Center for the Arts.

    When asked to provide a quote for the readers, Robert left me with this thought that absolutely encompasses his performance and the man behind the spotlight:

    “Do not go where the path may lead…instead go where there is no path….and leave a trail”  Unknown author

  • Annual Tradition, Enter The Haggis Rocks Saranac Thursday, You In?

    One of the most anticipated shows of the Saranac Thursday line up  in Utica, NY is definitely the crowd favorites from Toronto, Canada –  Enter The Haggis.  This indie, roots rock, folk, celtic group blazes new trails for themselves each time they set out to create their music. This Thursday, July 17 at the Saranac Brewery in Utica, fans are hoping they may share a taste of what is to be material from the new album.  Join us at 6pm, whether they share or not, their catalog of music is riveting enough and you definitely won’t be sorry you came.

    With Brian Buchanan (vocals, fiddle, keyboards, acoustic guitar, and electric guitar), Craig Downie (vocals, highland bagpipes, trumpet, harmonica, whistle, acoustic guitar, and bells), Trevor Lewington (vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, octave mandolin, and keyboards), Mark Abraham (bass guitar and vocals) and Bruce McCarthy (drums and percussion ) – you know the music will be top notch. How could it not? with the most impressive collection of talent on stage.  Although their rousing sound never fails to get the toes tapping, the hands clapping, and the crowd screaming,  it’s their songwriting that takes them over the top and sets them apart from all the others.

    Enter The Haggis
    Enter The Haggis

    It’s a gift, their creativity.  Each album forges new trails for them and their audience, adoringly referred to as Haggis Heads.  The last album, The Modest Revolution came about based on one day’s news publication.  As they read through this news periodical, they found all the inspiration necessary to come up with a full album of music addressing topics from that day’s current events.

    Enter The Haggis
    Enter The Haggis

    As creative as that was, their new project, The Penny Black Project, is even more so.  Over the years touring, they have heard some of the most interesting stories and tales from Haggis Heads all over the world.  Putting out a request to all their fans to share their unique stories, there was only one catch.  It had to be submitted the old fashioned way, with pen and paper and sent via the postal service.  The anticipation to hear these stories and their interpretation of them is keeping their fans on the edge of their seats.  As mixing has commenced, it’s only a matter of time for the final release date to be announced.

    Enter The Haggis
    Enter The Haggis
    Enter The Haggis
    Enter The Haggis
    Enter The Haggis
    Enter The Haggis

  • Hometown Heroes moe. at Saranac Brewery in Utica

    It’s officially summer whenever moe. plays their first show of the year at Saranac Brewery. This year it actually was the first day of summer, and the clear skies and warm sun made it a bearable accompaniment to the second of two nights of moe. at Saranac Brewery. More than 1,000 fans filled the outdoor venue, drinking Saranac’s latest offerings as well as staples such as Pale Ale and Adirondack Amber. An attentive crowd, the brewery attracts a strong hometown crowd for the Utica summer concert series, but nothing like moe. brings in.

    hometown moe utica
    moe. Saranac Brewery

    Kicking off the night with three newer tunes, two off of the recent No Guts, No Glory release, warming the crowd up slowly with the more familiar “Billy Goat” followed by “Annihilation Blues” and “Do or Die”, all warmly received, but not as much as the next trio of songs. The classic combo of “Not Coming Down > Wormwood > Okay Alright” featured Conehead Buddha horns from Shaun Bazylewicz, Terry and Shannon Lynch on all but “Wormwood”, which had a more aired-out pace to it. “Nebraska” found the horns on stage once again,  as well as on “Late in the Evening”, a fully rhythmic version that had some interesting interplay between horns and percussion, as well as Marley Amico joining on saxophone . The classic jam vehicle “Moth” ended the set nicely, and set the stage for a phenomenal second set.

    Things began a bit dark, and not just because the sun went down. moe. took their time getting into “Spanish Moon”, working patiently into the intro that kept everyone guessing. Joined again by Conehead Buddha horns, the crowd erupted as Chuck sang through the Little Feat lyrics, taking their time to explore the entire composition. Local musician Jason Barady joined on mandolin for “Jazz Wank”, which took a meandering stroll through the improv-friendly composition before segueing ever so nicely into “Buster”, garnering the biggest cheers of the night – the anticipation was stroked ever so carefully on this one.

    “Buster” found its way into “Yodelittle”, which clocked in at over 20 minutes and featured a nice jam, segueing into “Four”. With two distinct improv-induced movements, there was full band contribution on making this version of “Four” a stand out among its peers, and made for the highlight of the night, and part of an instant classic second set. “Downward Facing Dog” closed the set, and after al.nouncements, “Same Old Story”, off No Guts No Glory, as well the song from which the lyrics give the album its title, started off the encore, while Blue Oyster Cult’s “Godzilla” stormed through the crowd. Of note in “Godzilla” are Rob’s vocals/sounds he was making during the open section of the 70s hit, and well worth a listen.

    moe. next plays in New York at Great South Bay Festival in Patchogue on July 19 (get tickets here) and from August 29-31 at moe.down XV in Turin, NY. Get tickets here.

    Listen to the show below courtesy of Archive.org

  • Spectacular Average Boys Bring Good Times to The Dev

    Good times are abound anywhere and anytime the Spectacular Average Boys hit a venue.  Members, Ned Brower on vocals, guitar, and banjo, Joel Shue on vocals and bass, Jeff Landry on drums, and Justin Ploutz on guitar, fiddle, and mandolin, bring to the audience a spectacular show of folk, rock, and Americana tunes that are sure to get you up and moving.

    Performing April 25th at the Dev in Utica, the Spectacular Average Boys shared their special blend of music with a full night of original tunes, including “The Devil In Winter”, “What You Did”, “Parting Words” and “Fire, Copper, & Gold.” To balance that out, the band employed an eclectic mix of covers, including Uncle Tupelo’s “Acuff Rose” , The Black Keys’ “Stack Shot Billy”, “Jesse James”, Tom Waits’ “Make It Rain” , and the Stone Temple Pilots’ “Plush”.

    Currently working on new music, their fans will be happy to hear the heavy flavor of banjo in the new releases.  Keep an eye on their website for the completed recordings, and check out their Facebook site to catch them the next time they rock your neighborhood and see why they truly are “Spectacular”

  • No Still Life at The Kirkland Art Center when The David Wax Museum Performed with Rusty Belle

    On May 2nd, The Kirkland Art Center hosted the much-anticipated David Wax Museum with opening act Rusty Belle.  As I entered the venue to prepare for the evenings photos, I knew I was in for a treat the minute I took note of the stage.  Foreshadowing for what was to come, I found a myriad of musical instruments, some common, some not so much.  Makeshift instruments, including coffee cans, baby shoes, canteens, washboards, and donkey bones, scattered across the stage as a hint of cultural sounds in store for us that evening.

    As Rusty Belle took the stage, this trio of musicians jumped right into the mix, treating audience members to a back home, feel-good, foot stomping, “what music is about” performance.  Comprised of brother and sister, Matt and Kate Lorenz along with friend, Zak Trojano, these three bring a distinct twist to their bluegrass sound.  Their unique approach using commonplace items brings you back to what it was like generations ago when music was a celebration of friends and family gathering to just enjoy the sound and each other’s company.  With our fast paced lives, Rusty Belle brought us back to those times and totally entranced the audience with their music.

    As David Wax, Suz Slezak, and the band members took the stage, the audience was primed with anticipation for their set to begin.  Clearly I was amongst a huge following and was excited to see what was in store as a newcomer.  They certainly didn’t disappoint either.  Their amazing mix of Americana and Mexican variety melted together with a distinctive sound all their own.  With the use of a donkey jaw bone as one of the instruments of the evening, the sound added a cultural percussion that amplified the effect even more so.  Numbers such as “Knock Knock Get Up”, “Harder Before Its Easier”, and “Yes Maria Yes” are only a few of the songs that sealed the fate noting them now as one of my favorite live shows to see. Joined on stage by Rusty Belle on a few numbers only exaggerated an already outstanding performance by this group.  As they all unplugged and came out into the audience, it was apparent why this band is held in such high esteem by followers.  Their connection to their music, each other, and their audience captivates and casts a spell over those in proximity.

    Even though the performance was held in an art museum, there was no still life in any proximity of this group. Audience members were dancing, clapping, stomping, and singing along as though they were part of the performance.  As the show ended, one could only feel as though they had truly experienced what American music is all about.  The blend of bluegrass, mexican, rock, country, jazz, and funk gave these two bands their unique sound, but also brought those in the room back to the roots of what music was all about: a celebration of family , friends, and the sounds around us in the art of music and culture.

  • Cher Lloyd and David Correy Turn Up The Heat at the Spring Meltdown

    Central New Yorkers have ushered out the cold winter weather for the past three years with the help of Mohawk Valley Community College and Kiss FM 97.9/105.5 as they host their annual Spring Meltdown each April.  This April’s event was even hotter than the previous years with the headlining British sensation, Cher Lloyd, and her special guest, David Correy.

    cher lloyd
    Cher Lloyd

    David Correy is more than just an amazing performer, he’s an inspiration to all of his fans world wide.  Looking back on his life to date, David ‘s course of history appears to be predestined.  Born in Brazil to a family in extreme poverty, his mother made the difficult decision to give David up for adoption to afford him more opportunities in life.  This selfless act gave a couple in Annapolis, MD the opportunity to be a part of David’s life and love him as their own.  Throughout his childhood David was always drawn to music and performing whether it was in school productions or singing and writing music where ever he could.  David’s love for music was recognized and awarded with a full scholarship to the prestigious Berklee School of Music in Boston, MA.  Off to refine his craft in Boston, David was dealt a horrendous blow in his sophomore year when he became ill and completely lost his voice.  Having to give up school, David returned home to recuperate.

    This, however, didn’t deter David though as he pushed through the roadblock to only bounce back with more determination to succeed. But shortly after that, fate once again had alternative plans for David when he was in a near fatal car accident.  Once again David proved what he was made of and how much of a fighter he was, as he recovered and pushed back once again with even more perseverance.  In 2012 David was a contender on the second season of the US version of the reality show, X-Factor, being a member of LA Reid’s team.  Even thought he was eliminated, the appearance on the show lent a hand to fate once again and brought David and his birth mother back together as she recognized his baby photos on the show.  Chronicling the reunion with all of his Facebook and Twitter fans as it unfolded, we all became part of his heart warming reunion with his mother and family in Brazil.  Since the reunion, David’s talents have extended past the shores of America to incorporate fans world wide.  He has had opportunities to work with greats such as Ne-Yo, Bow Wow, Omarion, and the likes over the last few years. This world wide acclaim has widened to now incorporate sports fans as David joins forces with Aloe Blacc on David’s new song “The World Is Ours”, the Coca- Cola 2014 FIFA World Cup Anthem.

    In March of 2014, David once again was dealt with one of life’s unfairnesses with the passing of his adoptive mother.  As he grieved, he picked himself up and pushed through the pain yet again.  Joining us at MVCC for the 2014 Spring Meltdown only a few short weeks after his loss, he dedicated the show to his late mother and his Central NY family, the family that first embraced him at his first big show in 2012 at MVCC’s first Spring Meltdown, and the crowd welcomed him home with open arms.

    cher lloyd
    Cher Lloyd

    With the amazing talents of David Correy opening, Cher Lloyd could feel the love within the Jorgenson Complex as the crowd chanted and went wild in anticipation of the superstar to emerge. Cher Lloyd, at a young age of 20, hails from the UK and is best known for her appearance in the seventh series of the X Factor in the UK.  Finishing fourth however didn’t deter her as she was signed immediately to Syco Music, Simon Cowell’s label.  Releasing her first single “Swagger Jagger” the single went immediately to number one on the UK charts and five on the charts in Ireland. With a second release of her collaboration with Mike Posner on “With Ur Love”, her success was apparent as the single went top ten again.  In October of 2011 Cher signed with Logan Entertainment and we saw the release of her premier album, Sticks & Stones here in the US shortly thereafter.  The single “Want You Back” immediately went top ten and she was a household name in no time.  In addition to her amazing musical talents, she’s a beauty.  Signed as a model with the prestigious Select Agency, she began to appear on magazine covers as well.

    Cher Lloyd
    Cher Lloyd

    As Cher took the stage at MVCC, it was an amazing site to see how this petit firecracker took control of the stage and wrapped her audience around her little finger.  Her stage presence spewed of passion, strength, and life on her own terms.  As she sang many fan favorites from her first album Sticks & Stones interspersed with songs from the upcoming new album, Sorry I’m Late, (to be released by end of May 2014) it was apparent that her musical talents were unique and genuine to her vision.  As she performed acoustic numbers such as “Goodnight” a ballad writen about her father, and “Sirens” you gathered an insight into this multi-talented artist as she is much more than a pop, rap, hip hop, contemporary R&B.  She is a truly gifted songwriter and an amazing performer.  When categorizing Cher Lloyd to any one genre, one would be pressed to select.  She credits artists such as Nicki Minaj in trailblazing the unique sound she has created as well as legendary country artist Dolly Parton.  With such a diverse inspirational background, it’s only inevitable that Cher would create an unique sound of her own.

    [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HvRV7zY75Ss&w=560&h=315]

    Touring since 2011 with the XFactor tour, and then accompanying Hot Chelle Rae in 2012 and Taylor Switft in 2013 on her Red Tour validates her upward climb to success in the US.  For those interested in catching her on tour this year, she will be out on the road with Demi Lovato on her 2014 Neon Lights Tour.

    Cher Lloyd
    Cher Lloyd

    Although Cher is only 20, her amazing talent and drive to the top signifies what a superstar this young lady is and will be in the future.  Many artists rise to the top with a few hits, but it’s her diversity in music and the ability to stay true to her craft that will maintain Cher on the top for many years to come.  It is the uniqueness of what she creates that makes her stand out above others.  It is her honestly in her songwriting and performing.  She’s definitely one that marches to the beat of her own drum, wearing her heart on her sleeve literally, proudly displaying her ink featuring her love of her father.  Cher develops an aura at her show.  By sharing details of her personal life with her audience she draws them in as friends and not just fans in an audience.  If we were to make predictions on future stars to watch for that will stay true to their music, true to their personal beliefs, and true to their creativity,  I would definitely place Cher on that list.  If I were to choose one word to describe Cher, it would be honest.  Cher is honest to herself and her fans, and that is why they love her.