NYS Music 2023

Category: Funk/Soul/R&B

  • SummerStage Brings Artists To Venues Across NYC

    NYC’s City Parks Foundation’s SummerStage is back for another year of concerts and entertainment. This season the series features everything from folk music icons to some of hip-hop’s most innovative voices. Most of the notable concerts will take place at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park. 12 different neighborhood parks across all five boroughs of NYC will also serve as venues. Concerts begin on June 3 and run until September 30. 

    Since its inception in 1986, SummerStage has established itself as one of New York City’s premier concert series. With 80 shows Summerstage showcases a diverse set of artists from various genres week after week. Apart from some ticketed benefit concerts, SummerStage events are usually open to the public and free.

    In addition to concerts, Central Park will also screen films and host a multitude of different celebrations. The iconic greenspace has become an inseparable from NYC, hosting some of the most well known artists throughout the years. Curtis Mayfield, Elvis Costello, Crosby, Stills & Nash, and Jazmine Sullivan have all graced the stage in Central Park.

    The other parks and outdoor spaces hosting SummerStage in 2023 include Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem, Tompkins Square Park in the East Village, Von King Park and The Coney Island Amphitheater in Brooklyn, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, Crotona Park in the Bronx, Stapleton Waterfront Park in Staten Island, and SummerStage’s flagship venue at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park.

    This year SummerStage will celebrate hip-hop as the genre celebrates its 50th anniversary. The series aims to highlight not only its significance to NYC but also the impact it has had worldwide. 

    As part of the celebration, a special edition showcase will take over Coney Island on August 6. The event will feature artists Special Ed and many more, hosted by Ralph McDaniels. Frankie Cutlass and Black Sheep’s Dres will join the festivities on August 12 in Staten Island. A day later DJ Funk Flex will bring his birthday celebration to Brooklyn on August 13.

    SummerStage’s 2023 roster boasts several international musicians but also tries to celebrate some of the city’s local artists. Argentina’s TRUENO and Puerto Rico’s Villano Antillano highlight the influence of Caribbean and reggaetón. Meanwhile Brooklyn-based artist Nick Hakim looks to bring his soulful R&B sounds back to his hometown. 

    We are thrilled to present another vibrant season filled with captivating artists from around the world and introduce music fans to their diverse sounds

    Erika Elliott, Executive Artistic Director of SummerStage. 

    A full list of shows can be found here.

    SummerStage Dates & Locations:

    Saturday, June 3, 7 p.m., Central Park – Hippo Campus & Gus Dapperton  – Benefit Concert

    Sunday, June 4, 6:30 p.m., Central Park – Indigo Girls – Benefit Concert

    Saturday, June 10, 6 p.m., Central Park – Opening Night American Blues – FREE Concert

    Wednesday, June 14, 7 p.m., Central Park – New York Sings Yiddish! – FREE Concert

    Thursday, June 15, 7 p.m., Central Park – Sammy Rae & The Friends – Benefit Concert

    Saturday, June 17, 4 p.m., Central Park – The Aussie BBQ – FREE Concert

    Sunday, June 18, 6 p.m., Central Perk – Buddy Guy’s Damn Right Farewell Tour – Benefit Concert

    Monday, June 19, 4 p.m., Central Park – Park Jams, a Juneteenth Celebration – Benefit Concert

    Tuesday, June 20, 7 p.m., Central Park – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Gabriella Reyes / René Barbera / Will Liverman and Dimitri Dover – FREE Concert

    Friday, June 23, 7 p.m., Brooklyn Bridge Park – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Gabriella Reyes / René Barbera/ Will Liverman / Dimitri Dover – FREE Concert

    Saturday, June 24, 5 p.m., Central Park – Stanley Clarke N 4ever / Kenny Garrett / Brandee Younger / DJ Logic in Association with Blue Note Jazz Festival – FREE Concert

    Saturday, June 24, 7 p.m., Jackie Robinson Park – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Erika Baikoff / Thomas Glass / Cierra Byrd / Juan José Lázaro – FREE Concert

    Sunday, June 25, 3 p.m. – Dreamland – Pride in Central Park – Benefit Concert

    Monday, June 26, 6 p.m., Williamsbridge Oval – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Erika Baikoff / Thomas Glass / Cierra Byrd / Juan José Lázaro – FREE Concert

    Wednesday, June 28, 6 p.m., Socrates Sculpture Garden – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Erika Baikoff / Thomas Glass / Cierra Byrd / Juan José Lázaro – FREE Concert

    Wednesday, June 28, 7 p.m., – Michael Franti & Spearhead – Benefit Concert

    Friday, June 30, 7 p.m., Clove Lakes Park – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Erika Baikoff / Thomas Glass / Cierra Byrd / Juan José Lázaro – FREE Concert

    Saturday, July 1, 5 p.m., Central Park – Andy Shauf / Leith Ross / Yves Jarvis in association with the Consulate General of Canada in New York – FREE Concert

    Sunday, July 2, 5 p.m., Central Park – Andy Shauf / Leith Ross / Yves Jarvis in association with the Consulate General of Canada in New York – FREE Concert

    Saturday, July 8, 5 p.m., Central Park – Catalan Sounds On Tour: Queralt Lahoz / Marala / Lia Kali with DJ sets by DJ Trapella in association with the Institut Ramon Llull – FREE Concert

    Sunday, July 9, 5 p.m., Coney Island – Tuff Gong Takeover feat Skip Marley & Friends – FREE Concert

    Monday, July 10, 6 p.m., Central Park – Noel Gallagher & High Flying Birds and Garbage – Benefit Concert

    Wednesday, July 12, 6 p.m., Central Park – Juanes / Conexion Divina in association with LAMC – FREE Concert

    Thursday, July 13, 5 p.m., Central Park – Bastille Day: Joachim Garraud & Marie Berson / Passi / Bénabar / Adèle Castillon in association with Consulate General of France – FREE Concert

    Thursday, July 13, 7 p.m., Von King Park – Works & Process at SummerStage: The Masterz at Work Dance Family with Courtney Washington – FREE Concert

    Friday, July 14, 6 p.m., Von King Park – Nick Hakim / June McDoom / Evan Wright – FREE Concert

    Saturday, July 15, 4 p.m., Von King Park – MIKE’S Young World III: Noname / Georgia Anne Muldrow / 454 – FREE Concert

    Saturday, July 15, 5 p.m., Central Park – TRUENO / Villano Antillano / Dawer x Damper / KEXP’s El Sonido with Albina Cabrera ft. Camola DJ set in association with LAMC – FREE Concert

    Sunday, July 16, 4 p.m., Coney Island – GOLDEN OLDIES ON THE BOARDWALK 2023 feat. The Duprees / The Coasters / Charlie Thomas’ Drifters w/ Jeff Hall / Bobby Wilson / Stan Zizka’s Del Satins / Vito Picone & The Elegants / The Chiclettes and More / Hosted by Joe Causi with DJ Vinnie Medugno in association with Fever Productions and Brian Rosenberg – FREE Concert

    Sunday, July 16, 6 p.m, Von King Park – dead prez / th1rt3en / Large Professor DJ Set – FREE Concert

    Wednesday, July 19, 5 p.m., Central Park – Julia Jacklin / Y La Bamba / Black Belt Eagle Scout -FREE Concert

    Thursday, July 20, 5 p.m., Central Park – Horsegirl / Iceage / Water From Your Eyes / Lifeguard – FREE Concert

    Saturday, July 22, 5 p.m., Central Park – Michael Brun Presents BAYO – Benefit Concert

    Saturday, July 22, 5 p.m., Flushing Meadows Corona – Kool and the Gang – FREE Concert

    Sunday, July 23, 5 p.m., Central Park – Taiwanese Waves: Waa Wei / The Dinosaur’s Skin / Mandarin Homework (DJ Mr. Skin) – FREE Concert

    Sunday, July 23, 6 p.m., Flushing Meadows Corona Park – DJ Rekha’s Basement Bhangra Bacchanal: DJ Rekha / Malkit Singh with live band / DJ Ana / Sikh Knowledge / Rolex Rasathy / Param Singh / Dholi Anuradha and guests – FREE Concert

    Monday, July 24, 6 p.m. – Café Tacvba – Benefit Concert

    Wednesday, July 26, 6 p.m., Central Park – Works & Process at SummerStage: Dorrance Dance – FREE Concert

    Saturday, July 29, 5 p.m., Central Park – Mdou Moctar / Meg Baird and Mary Lattimore / Rough Francis – FREE Concert

    Wednesday, Aug 2, 5 p.m., Central Park – The Comet Is Coming / Ibeyi / AceMo DJ Sets – FREE Concert

    Wednesday, Aug 2, 6 p.m., Crotona Park – Eddie Palmieri Salsa Orchestra / Lulada Club / DJ JFuse in association with The Salsa – FREE Concert

    Thursday, Aug 3, 6 p.m. – Bittersweet Daze – Benefit Concert

    Thursday, Aug 3, 6 p.m., Crotona Park – Ted Smooth’s Freestyle Jam ft. TKA and Judy Torres – FREE Concert

    Friday, Aug 4, 5 p.m., Crotona Park – “Birth of a Culture” Grandmaster Flash and Friends – FREE Concert

    Saturday, Aug 5, 5 p.m., Central Park – The Originals: Stretch Armstrong / Rich Medina / Tony Touch / Clark Kent / D-Nice – FREE Concert

    Saturday, Aug 5, 7 p.m., Crotona Park – Stonebwoy in association with Ghanafest-NY Crotona Park – FREE Concert

    Sunday, August 6, 4 p.m., Coney Island – Hip-Hop 50: SPECIAL EDITION: Nice N Smooth / Special Ed /Buckshot of Black Moon / Masta Ace / CL Smooth / Rah Digga / Rampage / Black Sheep Dres / Sweet Tee / Joeski Love / Sparky D / Hosted by Ralph McDaniels (Video Music Box) – FREE Concert

    Wednesday and Thursday, Aug 9 & 10, 7 p.m. Mt. Joy – Benefit Concerts – Sold Out

    Saturday, Aug 12, 5 p.m., Waterfront Park – Frankie Cutlass / The Original Cover Girls / Cynthia / Black Sheep / DJ Millo and DJ Medina in Association with Maker Park Radio Stapleton Waterfront Park – FREE Concert

    Saturday, Aug 12, 5 p.m., Central Park – VP Records Presents Roots Reggae Review – FREE Concert

    Sunday, Aug 13, 6 p.m., TBD – Orgullo Dominicano – Benefit Concert

    Sunday, Aug 13, 5 p.m., Coney Island – Funk Flex & Friends Birthday Concert Featuring Raheem DeVaughn, Rob Base & More – FREE Concert

    Aug 13, 5 p.m, Waterfront Park – Las Cafeteras / Natu Camara / Justy / DJ Kitty the Disc Jockey in Association with Maker Park Radio and La Isla Bonita Stapleton – FREE Concert

    Thursday, Aug 17, 7 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Works & Process at SummerStage: The Missing Element with The Beatbox House / LayeRhythm – FREE Concert

    Friday, Aug 18, 7 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Jason Moran and the Big Bandwagon: James Reese Europe and the Harlem Hellfighters: From the Dancehall to the Battlefield in Association with Jazzmobile – FREE Concert

    Saturday, Aug 19, 5 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Mixtape (Film Screening) / DJ sets by Ron G / Doo Wop / Mister Cee / Tony Touch / Brucie B – FREE Concert

    Saturday, Aug 19, 5 p.m. – Cautious Clay, Wet, Christian Kuria, and Zindelphia – Benefit

    Sunday, Aug 20, 4 p.m., Coney Island – Jose Alberto “El Canario” / The Big 3 Palladium Orchestra: The Music Of Machito, Tito Rodriguez and Tito Puente – FREE Concert

    Aug 20, 5 p.m., Central Park – Everyday People – FREE Concert

    Aug 20, 5 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Hip-Hop 50: Native Tongue Edition: Monie Love / Black Sheep Dres / Chi Ali / DJ Red Alert hosted by Ralph McDaniels (Video Music Box) – FREE Concert

    Wednesday, Aug 23, 4:30 p.m. – Manchester Orchestra and Jimmy Eat World – Benefit Concert

    Thursday, Aug 24, 8 p.m. – Regina Spektor – Benefit Concert

    Friday, Aug 25, 7 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Charlie Parker Jazz Festival: Orrin Evans and the Captain Black Big Band featuring Dianne Reeves / T.K. Blue in association with Jazzmobile – FREE Concert

    Saturday, Aug 26, 3 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Charlie Parker Jazz Festival: The Cookers / Endea Owens and the Cookout / Nduduzo Makhathini Trio / Akua Allrich and The Tribe – FREE Concert

    Sunday, Aug 27, 3 p.m., Tompkins Square Park – Charlie Parker Jazz Festival: Charles McPherson with Terell Stafford / Something Else! Vincent Herring Septet / HERA feat. Chelsea Baratz and Andromeda Turre /
    Michael Mayo – FREE Concert

    Sunday, Aug 27, 5 p.m., Central Park – Palmwine Festival: Show Dem Camp and Friends in association with Move Forward Music – FREE Concert

    Wednesday, Aug 30, 7 p.m. – Vance Joy with Dan Sultan – Benefit Concert

    Thursday, Aug 31, 6 p.m., Central Park – In Our Own Sweet Time Tour: Vance Joy / Dan Sultan Subaru Music Series – Benefit Concert

    Sunday, Sep 3, 5 p.m., Central Park – Emicida / Goyo / Screening: AmarElo: It’s All for Yesterday / in Association with 27th Inffinito Brazilian Film Festival – FREE Concert

    Thursday, Sep 14, 5 p.m., Central Park – Tanya Tucker / Nikki Lane Subaru Music Series – FREE Concert

    Saturday, Sept 30, 5 p.m. – Carl Cox – Benefit Concert

  • Upstate Boogie features Schleigho, Herbal Tonic, GRUB and more at Hemlock Fairground June 9-11

    Historic Hemlock Fairground located in the town of Hemlock, just 40 minutes south of Rochester, will host the annual Upstate Boogie Festival over June 9-11, 2023. The three day and night live music and art festival includes camping, regional and local live bands on two stages, plus vendors from the Finger Lakes and beyond.

    upstate boogie

    Livingston Country’s Hemlock Fairground is a national historic district and fairground, a notable landmark thanks to the racetrack and covered grandstand constructed in 1870. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2000. Hemlock Fair has been held for over 150 years.

    Tent and car camping available to Upstate Boogie ticket-holders, and for family camping, LITTLEVILLE will provide plenty of room for kids to play, right in the center of it all. Re-entry is available for those who are local and purchase a non-camping weekend pass. RV Camping is available at limited electric sites, for an extra charge. Indoor bathrooms are open 24 hours throughout the event with showers open dawn to dusk

    Local Artisans & Craftsmen will be selling their wares in the Vending Village, with a Food Court featuring fair and festival favorites.

    Upstate Boogie Live Music schedule

    FRIDAY JUNE 9
    DIGGIN’ ROOTS BAND (7pm)
    HIGH PINES (9pm)
    HERBAL TONIC (11pm)
    NICK LEDUC (12:30am)

    SATURDAY JUNE 10
    THE MIDNIGHT SCONCE (1pm)
    ADAM BROOKS BAND (3pm)
    ST. VITH (5pm)
    DRUM CIRCLE (7pm)
    GRUB (8pm)
    SCHLEIGHO (10pm)
    NIGEL FELONY (12:30am)

    SUNDAY JUNE 11
    ​JUDAH (11am)
    THE KIND BROTHERS BAND (1pm)

    Tickets are on sale now. A 3-day weekend pass is $60 in advance, and $80 at the gate, with children 18 & under are FREE with parents also attending. Single day tickets are $50 for Friday, $60 for Saturday, and $10 for Sunday. Cash only is accepted at the gate. Parking costs $20 for the weekend and $10 for a day pass.

    Get to know the artists of Upstate Boogies

    Schleigho has been a nationally touring jazz-fusion band since the early 1990’s and have released 5 CD’s, playing regularly at clubs and theaters up and down the east-coast, mid- west and west coast over the mid ’90’s and early 2000’s. Instrumental, energetic, raw and at times down-right sinister. Down from roughly 200 shows a year at the turn of the millennium, don’t miss Schleigho if they are in your neck of the woods. This is one of their few scheduled dates so far for their 30th anniversary in 2023.

    Herbal Tonic is a WNY feel good jam band, infused with island reggae, blues, and funk, and will surely have you out on the dancefloor craving for more!

    St. Vith is a Finger Lakes eclectic indie rock band whose sound is a mural of psychedelic jam, art rock and time honored American styles.

    Grub is a Psych Rock group based out of Niagara Falls. This multi-genre trio is capable of delivering funk-driven madness, improvisational bliss, and shoe-gazing glitch-o-matic electronic soundscapes. ​A live Grub performance showcases their original tunes as well as their improvisational chops, while captivating the crowd by teasing dancable and nostalgic covers from past decades.

    High Pines is a union of smooth grooves, contemporary funk, and neo-psychedelic explorations that evolve with each performance. A fusion of jazz appreciation and rock spirit, complimented by enchanting harmonies, creates music for your mind, body and soul.

    Diggin Roots Band plays an eclectic mix of music inspired by the various forms of American Roots Music including Blues, Funk, Rock n Roll, Soul, R&B, Bluegrass, and Gospel. Some songs may blend multiple genres together into a coherent sound while others might hang on firmly to a specific style.

    Nick LeDuc is an original artist hailing from Ogdensburg NY, playing a unique style of Refined Rock-groove to tantalize your ears and tickle your fancy. Combining classic guitar styles and intoxicating rhthyms, accented by his unique vocal style, Nick is one of the freshest sounds heard on the music scene in a very long time. From funk to blues, and rock to folk there’s a little something in between all of it that comes to make up the sound Nick LeDuc projects live or in studio.

    Judah is a four piece rock band from Rochester that has turned heads since their outset as high schoolers a few years back. Blending a soulful mix of rock and blues, Judah has expanded their touring around WNY and the Finger Lakes.

    The Midnight Sconce are Rochester’s next jamband that you will soon hear more about. These guys catch the groove and delivery, expect high energy jams and plenty of fun!

    For more info email, contact hemlockevents@gmail.com

  • Janelle Monáe to Visit Radio City And Kings Theatre

    Janelle Monáe recently announced her “Age of Pleasure Tour”, which will feature two stops in the Empire State. The Grammy-nominated artist will visit the iconic Radio City Music Hall and Kings Theatre in Brooklyn. The 26-city tour kicks off on August 30 in Seattle at the WAMU Theater. 

    The tour coincides with Monáe’s long-awaited fourth studio album The Age of Pleasure which is slated to drop on June 9. Monáe released her critically acclaimed concept album Dirty Internet more than four years ago. The project earned the artist two Grammy nominations including one for “Album of the Year”, it also peaked at number 10 on the Billboard 200. 

    Since her last album Monáe has explored writing and acting, appearing in the films Harriet and Glass Onion, she also received praise for her role in the series We the People. Earlier this May Monáe dropped the single “Lipstick Lover” to go along with her upcoming album. 

    Presale tickets started on June 1, while on-sale tickets are set to be released on Wednesday, June 6. Tickets and more information can be found here. 

    Janelle Monae ‘Age of Pleasure’ Tour Dates 

    Wed Aug 30 – Seattle, WA – WAMU Theater

    Thu Aug 31 – Vancouver, BC – UBC – Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre

    Sat Sep 02 – Portland, OR  – RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater

    Wed Sep 06 –Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex

    Thu Sep 07 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre

    Sat Sep 09 – Kansas City, MO – The Midland Theatre 

    Mon Sep 11 – Minneapolis, MN – Armory

    Wed Sep 13 – St. Louis, MO – Stifel Theatre

    Thu Sep 14 – Chicago, IL – Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom

    Sun Sep 17 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway

    Mon Sep 18 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met

    Wed Sep 20 – Montreal, QB – Mtelus

    Thu Sep 21 – Toronto, ON – Massey Hall 

    Sun Sep 24 – Washington, DC  – The Anthem*

    Tue Sep 26 – New York City, NY – Radio City Music Hall

    Thu Sep 28 – Brooklyn, NY – Kings Theatre 

    Mon Oct 02 – Charlotte, NC – Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre 

    Tue Oct 03 – Nashville, TN  – Ryman Auditorium

    Wed Oct 04 – Birmingham, AL  – Avondale Brewing Company

    Fri Oct 06 – Atlanta, GA – Fox Theatre Atlanta

    Mon Oct 09 – Dallas, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory

    Tue Oct 10 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center 

    Wed Oct 11 – Austin, TX – Moody Amphitheater

    Sun Oct 15 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre

    Tue Oct 17 – San Francisco, CA – Bill Graham Civic Auditorium

    Wed Oct 18 – Inglewood, CA – YouTube Theater

  • Boston Calling – Food, Fun & Lots of Music at Harvard On Memorial Day Weekend

    Beginning in the afternoon on Friday, May 26 through the late evening on Sunday, May 28, the 12th installment of the beloved Boston Calling music festival returned to its home at Harvard University in Boston (Allston), Massachusetts this past Memorial Day weekend.

    For three straight days, more than 40,000 fans of all ages passed through the gates into the Harvard Athletic Complex where they were welcomed daily to engaging activities such as a ride on a 100-foot Ferris wheel, delicious food served up by 29 local vendors, and of course, great music performed by 51 artists (17 each day) across four outdoor stages dubbed the Green Stage, the Happy Valley Red Stage, the Blue Stage and the Tivoli Audio Orange Stage, which championed acts with local ties to New England.

    Paramore | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger

    Inaugurated in 2013, the acclaimed Boston Calling festival is produced by Boston Calling Events, owned in part by Boston-based Crash Line Productions, whose hallmark of bringing new sounds each and every year was on full display again. In step with the festival’s commitment to securing an iconic mix of musical performances, headlining the festival on Day 1 (Friday) were Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Foo Fighters. Having played in New Hampshire two days prior, this would only be their second official concert following drummer Taylor Hawkins’ tragic death in March 2022. The Lumineers, soulful alternative-folk rockers from Denver, Colorado, headlined Day 2 (Saturday) of the festival. Day 3 (Sunday) of the festival was headlined by indie rock darlings Paramore, formed in Franklin, Tennessee in 2004. Paramore, having already performed at the festival back in 2018, made their triumphant return on the heels of releasing their sixth studio album, This is Why.

    Foo Fighters | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger

    Boston Calling also featured renowned co-headliners on each day, including The National and Boston natives Dropkick Murphys on Day 1, the latter who quickly stepped in for the art-punk trio Yeah Yeah Yeahs due to an undisclosed illness announced the day prior. The Celtic punk band’s frontman, Ken Casey, would announce to the crowd during their blistering set, “The Yeah Yeah Yeahs said ‘no no no,’ but we never say no!” Day 2 saw seven-time Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Alanis Morissette take the Red Stage, playing her first show in Boston since 2012. Queens of the Stone Age, alternative metal rockers from Seattle, Washington, brought their hard-pounding musicianship to Day 3 of the festival. Having recently announced their long-awaited eighth studio album, In Times New Roman, they thrilled their die-hard fans with two new tracks from this forthcoming release (June 16), including “Emotion Sickness” and “Negative Space.”

    Dropkick Murphys | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger
    Queens of the Stone Age | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger

    Joining these headlining and co-headlining acts were well-established artists such as Noah Kahan, Bleachers, The Flaming Lips (who celebrated the release of Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots by performing the 2002 album in its entirety), King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard (the psychedelic rock band from Australia who were forced to bow out of last year’s festival due to COVID-19), Mt. Joy, Maren Morris and many more.

    Bleachers | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger
    Mt. Joy | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger
    The Flaming Lips | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger

    The holiday weekend also offered its patrons plenty of performances from up-and-coming talent, including Razor Braids, The Beaches, The Aces and The Linda Lindas (an all-girl quartet ranging in age from 13 to 19 who easily won over the crowd after a personal introduction to their set by the Mayor of Boston, Michelle Wu), to name just a few.

    The Beaches | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger
    The Linda Lindas | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger

    Although the temperature each day of the festival was not as hot as it could have been for this time of the year, the sun did take its toll on some of the audience members who were not adequately hydrated. I witnessed firsthand at least five people who appeared to faint due to heat stroke, all of whom required to be quickly pulled out of the crowd by security and whisked away for treatment by EMT personnel.

    The only critique that I have for this year’s festival is also the same as 2022’s festival, the merchandise tent line was long, exceedingly long. As I talked to fans who were proudly wearing their new t-shirt or hat, I learned that time spent in line (and away from the stages) was a minimum of two hours! Often, the sought after merch had already been sold-out. However, fans were at least able to complete an order form for the requested item to be shipped at a later date.

    Fans soaking in the action at the Red Stage (Day 2) | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger

    No festival experience is considered complete without first meeting and interacting with fellow fans. My own personal encounters included talking to Paul from Toronto, Canada in front of the Green Stage for most of Friday afternoon. I learned that he and his 16-year old son drove for eight hours Thursday night and into the wee morning hours to see the Foo Fighters for the first time. Paul emotionally shared with me that his son “will always remember this, so it was well worth it.” On Friday, I also met Kirby from Danbury, Connecticut, an avid fan of all music genres, as well as a talented drummer and guitarist. He revealed to me that he was dealing with painful plantar fasciitis in both feet, so when I saw him again on both Saturday and Sunday along the rail of the Red Stage, I was glad he was able to still see the artists he loves up close and personal. Being a graduate of the University of Connecticut (UCONN), it was also a pleasure to spend time speaking with Seth for a few hours, a UCONN professor for nearly 20 years and an amateur live music photographer.

    Shane Hawkins Joins Foo Fighters Onstage | Video Credit: Michael Dinger

    During a festival filled with three days and nights of highlights, it’s easy for me to pick out my favorite one. Throughout the Foo Fighters’ two hour set, Dave Grohl’s devastation by the loss of his friend and bandmate was palpable – on his face and in his speeches to the audience. So, when Grohl welcomed to the stage “one of [his] favorite drummers in the world,” 17-year old Shane Hawkins, it was truly a goosebumps moment. With Shane taking a couple of minutes at the drum kit to adjust the stool height left for him by the Foo Fighters newest member, Josh Freese, Grohl stalled for time. “Hello Boston, how’s it going over there? Earlier, I was in my dressing room and I heard the audience going absolutely fucking bonkers for someone. And I was like, who the fuck is playing that someone is going [this crazy]? It was Niall Horan [of One Direction fame], is that his name? How’s it going there Shane? Oh my God, there is a curfew Shane. This is an old song from our first record and when we play it . . .” Abruptly, in came Shane with a thunderous drum roll to launch “I’ll Stick Around.”

    Day 1 (Friday)

    RAZOR BRAIDS

    THE BEACHES

    DROPKICK MURPHYS

    FOO FIGHTERS

    Day 2 (Saturday)

    NEEMZ

    THE ACES

    MT. JOY

    THE FLAMING LIPS

    Day 3 (Sunday)

    JUICE

    THE LINDA LINDAS

    BLEACHERS

    QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE

    PARAMORE

    The Fans & The Grounds

  • Rory Farrell from ‘New Rory & Mal’ Podcast Releases Debut Project ‘I Thought It’d Be Different’

    Popular Podcaster Rory Farrell has joined the ranks of the creatives with the release of his debut project, I Thought It’d Be Different. Known for his stint as one of the dynamic trio that helped propel The Joe Budden Podcast and as one half of Rory & Mal, this latest venture allows fans a glimpse into Rory’s full potential. Likewise, throughout his stint as a podcast personality Rory has been hailed for his music taste and offers intimate knowledge of the business side having worked at SONY.

    Rory Farrell enters a new chapter with the release of I Thought It'd Be Different.

    Aptly titled, I Thought It’d Be Different, the album tittle reflects the last few years in the newly-minted producers life and career. Nevertheless, this curation demonstrates the potential that Rory’s music taste has teased for years. However, the list of accomplished artists and the quality of songs made for a pleasant surprise. Notably, Rory was able to land features from Jay Electronica, James Fauntleroy, GoldLinK, DRAM, Ari Lennox and Conway the Machine, producing an impressively cohesive album. Labeled as an R&B album, Rory does an effective job of inserting emphatic rap verses, adding a bit of oomph to the soul leaning project.

    Consequently, Rory Farrell’s Magnum Opus sees him enter a new chapter in the public eye. For so long the former music exec has seen his public association tied to his once-friend, Joe Budden. However, this 13-track, impassioned project alters his perception and allows him to publicly stand on his own two-feet. After all, fans have watched the mostly calm and collected podcaster go through emotional ebb-and-flows throughout the years. From the deteriorating friendship with Joe Budden, to broken nuptials, and the announcement of a firstborn child during the album rollout, Rory’s oft-mythicized album offers a chance to experience Rory’s rollercoaster last few years through a musical hue.

  • Ballard Park In Westport Unveils Summer 2023 Concert Series

    Ballard Park in Westport will once again host a free, seven-week live music concert series. Performances will take place on Thursdays at 7PM, running from July 6 to August 17, 2023. This year’s lineup features everything from Beatles tribute bands to elite jazz musicians. 

    Ballard Park is perched atop a grassy hillside overlooking Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains of Vermont. This year, the park will also be home to the Westport-Wadhams Day concert on July 1. 

    Ballard Park was once the location of The Westport Inn, an illustrious grand hotel located in the heart of the Adirondacks. After the 1967 demolition of the building, Anne Ballard (“Petey”) Cerf, a long-time summer resident purchased the property. In 1989 she established Ballard Park in honor of her parents. 

    The park is open to the public and has both lake and beach access. In addition to the summer concert series, Ballard Park offers sledding and ice skating in the winter. 

    Organizers recommend that visitors bring blankets and low chairs. In the case of rain the concerts will switch over to the Whallonsburg Grange Hall.  More information and updates can be found here. 

    Ballard Park Summer Concert Series lineup

    July 1- STUDIO TWO, an early Beatles tribute band.                                  

    July 6- KAT WRIGHT, Vermont’s renowned blues and soul star.

    July 13- MYRA FLYNN, part of the “Roar of the Queen! Tour”, Flynn arrives to Ballard Park after headlining Burlington’s Discover Jazz festival.

    July 20- NICHOLAS EDWARD WILLIAMS, an American troubadour dedicated to preserving the songs and styles that shaped the United States .

    July 27- RAY VEGA, Vermont’s master of Jazz and a University Scholar at UVM

    August 3- MEADOWMOUNT SCHOOL OF MUSIC, Petey Cerf Memorial Concert— strings students from Westport’s renowned summer camp.

    August 10- PLOUGHMAN’S LUNCH, North Country musicians known for bluegrass, swing and covers.

    August 17- RYAN CLARK, from his hometown of Lake George to new home in Nashville, Ryan has received national acclaim for his talent and voice.

  • In Focus: Prince Bowie & Escaper at Putnam Place

    The temps are heating up outside, and so is the music scene in the Capital District in New York, including two of the most exciting bands on the scene right now. On Saturday, May 20th, New York City-based band Escaper warmed everyone up for the main act, Prince Bowie.

    Escaper

    Escaper is possibly the most appropriate name for a band in the history of band names — after all, it is impossible to ascribe a specific genre to this act. Will Hanza (guitar, vocals), Phil Kadet (keys) Sam Crespo (drummer from Space Bacon), and Luke Bemand from (bassist from Lespecial) have truly escaped a label of any kind. They enjoy being known as “one who breaks free from confinement,” and this comes across in every note that they play. If you haven’t had a chance to check out this band yet, you are truly missing something special. If you want to get right on it, you can check out their music on SoundCloud.

    Prince Bowie

    Prince Bowie is one of the most unique acts I have ever seen, covering the songs of Prince and David Bowie like you’ve never heard before. Prince Bowie almost never has the same lineup twice. This has no effect whatsoever on their level of talent, however, it is impossible to tell that they rarely play together as they gel quickly on stage.

    Saturday Night’s Lineup

    Saturday’s lineup included some local favorites as well as some glorious out-of-town guests. Featuring Eric Gould (Bass, Pink Talking Fish), Cal Kehoe (Guitar, Pink Talking Fish), Alric “AC” Carter (Keys, TAUK), Rory Dolan (Drums, lespecial), Chris Brouwers (Trumpet, The Horn Section / Cool Cool Cool), Greg Sanderson (Tenor Saxophone, The Horn Section / Cool Cool Cool, Josh Schwartz (Baritone Saxophone, lead vocals, The Horn Section / Cool Cool Cool) and Matt Wayne (Alto Saxophone, Bobby Deitch Band), they were joined for a few songs – “Under Pressure” and “Kiss” among them – by local legend Shannon Lynch (Saxophone, vocals, Midnight Sun, Conehead Buddha).

    Prince/Bowie – Putnam Place, Saratoga Springs – May 20, 2023

    Set: Let’s Go Crazy, Let’s Dance, Delirious, Ziggy Stardust, 1999, Starman, KISS, Under Pressure, DMSR, Young Americans, I Wanna be Your Lover, Fame > Cream, Space Oddity, I Would Die For You, Controversy, Moonage Daydream
    Encore: Life on Mars, Purple Rain

  • Danielle Ponder Releases New Spiritual Single “Roll the Credits”

    Rising soul and R&B artist, Danielle Ponder, released her new song “Roll the Credits” on May 5th. Her single is accompanied by a cinematic music video directed by Broadway choreographer and dancer Hettie Barnhill. Originally from Rochester, the singer has left her mark on New York’s music scene for more than a decade.

    “Roll the Credits” takes listeners into a passionate and pulsating world of spirituality. Filmed in the city of San Juan, Puerto Rico, the video allows listeners to connect the spiritual relationship that Ponder speaks of in her dynamic lyrics with culture, dance, music, and nature. Throughout the verses, the artist shows off her range and confidence in her weighty, graveling vocal style along with her clarity and evocation in her alternative gospel-like chorus.

    After playing the song in various live shows, it has clearly become a crowd and fan favorite throughout North America as well as Europe. The video itself has reached over 16,000 views in the past two weeks and continues to rise.

    Ponder’s new single is produced by Grammy nominated musician Gianluca Buccellati who has worked with artists ranging from Lana Del Ray to Paris Texas. The pair collaborated on Ponder’s debut album Some of Us Are Brave which was released last year.

    When speaking about her biggest influences Ponder comments, “We couldn’t listen to secular music so, I was listening to a lot of gospel early on, like Shirley Caesar, John P. Kee, the Blind Boys of Alabama — a mix of old and new school stuff. However, the blues is where I really developed a desire to sing. Listening to Big Mama Thornton and Koko Taylor, I wanted to know how to do that.“

    After taking the risk of leaving her career as a public defender behind in 2018, the artist has followed a path of expression and music all the way to the lime-light. She has unveiled her voice and passion with the world, landing her television appearances on “Late Night with Seth Meyers” and “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

    In order to celebrate and share her new music, Ponder has set out on a twenty-four date tour. Her live show will be performed in select cities throughout North America and Europe.

    Danielle Ponder Live Shows

    May 12 – Miramar Beach, FL – Brandi Charlie’s Mothership Weekend

    May 13—New Orleans, LA—Toulouse Theatre

    May 16—Austin, TX—Antone’s Nightclub

    May 18—Dallas, TX—Eric Nadel Birthday Benefit

    May 19—Houston, TX—The Heights Theater

    May 21—Phoenix, AZ—Valley Bar

    May 22—San Diego, CA—Voodoo Room at House of Blues

    May 24—West Hollywood, CA—Troubadour

    May 26—San Francisco, CA—Cafe Du Nord

    May 27—Napa, CA—BottleRock Napa Valley

    June 2—Ogden, UT—Ogden Music Festival

    June 17—Manchester, TN—Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival

    June 22—Rothbury, MI—Electric Forest Festival

    June 29—Montreal, Québec—Montreal International Jazz Festival

    July 1—Werchter, Belgium—Rock Werchter

    July 5—Aix-les-Bains, France—Festival Musilac

    July 7—Rotterdam, Netherlands—North Sea Jazz Festival

    July 29—Newport, RI—Newport Folk Festival

    August 5—Chicago, IL—Lollapalooza

    August 18—North Adams, MA—MASS MoCA

    August 29—Red Bank, NJ—Count Basie Center for the Arts

    August 30—Syracuse, NY—Chevy Court Stage

    September 14 – September 17—Louisville, KY—Bourbon & Beyond

    September 29 – October 1—Dana Point, CA—Ohana Fest

    Watch the official music video for Danielle Ponder “Roll the Credits” below.

  • An Evening with John Legend: R&B Star Announces Pair of November Beacon Theatre Performances

    Multi-platinum, R&B icon John Legend will be bringing his talents to New York’s historic Beacon Theatre for a pair of live, mid-week performances dubbed, “An Evening With John Legend.” Scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday on November 7 and 8, this special solo performance will feature intimate reimagining’s of Legend’s greatest hits.

    John Legend will be bringing his talents to the Beacon Theatre

    Since the release of his debut in 2004, John Legend has delivered some of music’s most soul-touching records and moments. His 2013 single “All of Me,” hit number 1 on the Billboard charts and the accompanying music video — featuring his wife Chrissy Teigen — has over 2 Billion views on Youtube. Other crowd pleasers will include his Grammy-nominated records “Ordinary People,” from his debut album Get Lifted, and “Tonight.” The latter which featured as the lead single from the soundtrack to the 2012 romantic-comedy film Think Like a Man.

    Together with the medley of chart-topping hits, An Evening With John Legend will also include selections from his latest album Legend recently released via Republic Records. Not to mention, unexpected stories from the legendary musician’s life and career.

    Ticket sales will begin with an artist presale on Wednesday, May 17 at 10 a.m. until Thursday, May 18 at 10 p.m. before the general on-sale on Friday, May 19 at 10 a.m. at LiveNation.com. 

  • Sterling Stage Folkfest Lines Up Driftwood, Hayley Jane and more for Memorial Day Weekend Bash

    Sterling Stage Folkfest will mark its return from a three-year hiatus over May 25-28, bringing the Central New York kickoff to summer back to Sterling, NY for Memorial Day weekend.

    Since 1995, Sterling Stage Folkfest has been a spirited kick off to summer at Sterling Stage Kampitheater and features a fun mix of folk, roots and jamband music as well as Artist’s Village, food and craft vendors, morning yoga, camping and more.

    More than 20 acts are scheduled for the four-day event, including Southern Tier standouts Driftwood, who will headline with two sets on Saturday, May 27. Sunday nights will see headliner Hayley Jane, who will be playing two sets with an absolutely incredible band that she has assembled for the night, including Rob Compa, Chuck Jones, and Neal “Fro” Evans (3/4th of Dopapod) along with Josh Hobbs.

    CNY jam faves Count Blastula get the party started on Thursday May 25 with two sets, and will also have the honor of christening a new main stage at the venue, the Artist’s Stage. Friday night will keep the CNY vibe going with the debut of Marilyn’s Cookies, featuring former members of Grateful Dead tribute band Pearly Baker’s Best, including lead guitarist Eric “EB” Brown who has been playing Sterling Stage since the inaugural event in 1995.

    sterling stage folkfest

    Other Folkfest highlights include Folkfaces from Western NY playing late night on Saturday and Rochester’s The Forest Dwellers late night on Friday; debuts from an eclectic mix of groups include The Sorters from Pennsylvania, Motherwort from Ithaca/Finger Lakes, and a funky new project from NY saxophone great Jesse Collins, called Honey Jar Habit.

    The 2023 Sterling Stage Folkfest is the first of 3 multi-day music and camping events that Eric McElveen’s new company Elven Productions, is organizing at the Sterling Stage Kampitheater. Next up is 2023 Sterling Stage String Fling July 6-9 featuring a jam grass theme with Sicard Hollow and Sam Grisman Project headlining. Closing out the season and and the second year replacing the long running Last Daze of Summer festival is Happy Sterling Festival August 31-September 3.

    All tickets include overnight camping and BYOB privileges. Coolers and campfires are allowed (no glass bottles). Advance festival passes are just $80 ($95 at gate) and space is limited. Tickets are available here.

    2023 Sterling Stage Folkfest Lineup

    DRIFTWOOD (2X Saturday)
    HAYLEY JANE (2X Sunday) w/Rob Compa, Chuck Jones, Neal “Fro” Evans, and Josh Dobbs
    MARILYN’S COOKIES (2X Friday)
    COUNT BLASTULA (2X Thursday)
    FOLKFACES
    THE FOREST DWELLERS
    THE SORTERS
    MOTHERWORT
    HONEY JAR HABIT
    SUPER SPICY PEPPER
    NATURAL MEDICINE
    OLD DEER ENSEMBLE
    HAL & PALS
    DUBIOUSLY DEAD
    ALLEN HARRIS
    CHAR DENNIS BAND
    KATIE ALESSANDRA (of Turkey Blaster Omega)
    SAM MONEY
    PAUL LECLAIR
    MOE MICHNICK
    DUFFY
    FRANK HARRIS
    AARON MEKKELSON

    Sterling Stage Folkfest Schedule

    ARTIST’S STAGE (MAIN)

    Thursday May 25
    10pm – 11:30pm – Count Blastula

    Friday May 26
    4pm – 5:10pm – Char Dennis Band
    6pm – 7:10pm – Natural Medicine
    8pm – 9:10pm – Marilyn’s Cookies
    10pm – 11:30pm – Marilyn’s Cookies

    Saturday May 27
    2pm – 3:10pm – Allen Harris
    4pm – 5:10pm – Honey Jar Habit
    6pm – 7:10pm – The Sorters
    8pm – 9:10pm – Driftwood
    10pm – 11:30pm – Driftwood

    Sunday May 28
    2pm – 3:10pm – Old Deer Ensemble
    4pm – 5:10pm – Hal & Pals
    6pm – 7:10pm – Motherwort
    8pm – 9:10pm – Hayley Jane
    10pm – 11:30pm – Hayley Jane

    SINATRA LOUNGE STAGE
    Thursday May 25
    11:45pm – 1am – Allen Harris

    Friday May 26
    5:15pm – 5:55pm – Duffy
    7:15pm – 7:55pm – Sam Money
    9:15pm – 9:55pm – Sam Money
    11:45pm – 12:30am – The Forest Dwellers
    12:35am – 12:50am – Katie Alessandra
    1:00pm – 2am – The Forest Dwellers

    Saturday May 27
    3:15pm – 3:55pm – Aaron Mekkelson
    5:15pm – 5:55pm – Paul LeClair
    7:15pm – 7:55pm – Dubiously Dead
    9:15pm – 9:55pm – Dubiously Dead
    11:45pm – Folkfaces

    Sunday May 28
    3:15pm – 3:55pm – Frank Harris
    5:15pm – 5:55pm – Moe Michnick
    7:15pm – 7:55pm – Katie Alessandra
    9:15pm – 9:55pm – Katie Alessandra
    11:45pm – Super Spicy Pepper