NYC-based singer-songwriter Steve Conte released a new official music video for his latest single, “Girl With No Name.” The video was filmed on the streets of New York, and shows iconic locations such as Times Square and the famous Flatiron Building.
Conte wrote “Girl With No Name” based on ideas of missed opportunity and attraction. He began writing it in 1984 and finished the track for his upcoming album. He cited influences such as The Beatles, XTC, and Diana Ross and the Supremes.
This is a song of regret…about missed opportunity and lack of skills in meeting someone you’re attracted to. When putting my new album together, I was looking for songs that would fit nicely alongside the songs that Andy Partridge and I had written for it and I kept thinking of this one. I wrote it back in 1984 and never forgot it – which was a good sign.
Steve Conte
Photo Credit: Anja Van Ast, 2020
Steve Conte is known as a longtime member of the rock group New York Dolls, as well as working alongside Paul Simon, Billy Squier, and Peter Wolf. Conte expanded internationally in recent years, working alongside Japanese composer Yoko Kanno to write soundtracks for anime series’.
On Saturday night, October 14, the Patchogue Theatre in New York came alive with the spellbinding music and visual artistry of the legendary guitarist, Andy Summers. The crowd gathered in anticipation of a performance that promised to be much more than just a concert. As part of his tour entitled “The Cracked Lens + A Missing String,” Andy Summers combined his exceptional guitar skills with a unique multimedia presentation.
The show kicked off with the hauntingly beautiful “Tru Nature,” setting the tone for what was to come. With his distinctive guitar style and unparalleled skill, Summers effortlessly transported the audience into a world of musical wonder. The setlist was an eclectic mix of his solo works and iconic songs from his time with The Police, making it an experience that catered to fans both old and new.
What truly set this evening apart were the interludes between songs, during which Summers shared captivating anecdotes. These stories offered a glimpse into the inspirations and experiences that shaped his music and life. One unforgettable tale involved an accidental overdose of Ambien, which left him with no memory of how he made it from the plane to his hotel. This candid storytelling offered a humorous yet humanizing perspective on the legendary artist.
The evening continued with songs like “The Last Dance of Mr. X” and “Tea in the Sahara,” which not only showcased Summers’ musical virtuosity but also his storytelling ability. Each song became more than just a composition; it transformed into a vivid narrative that resonated deeply with the audience.
Another remarkable story recounted Summers’ adventures with the late John Belushi, where they embarked on a journey involving magic mushroom omelets. The audience was transported into this wild and unexpected adventure through Summers’ vivid storytelling, making them feel like they were right there with him.
The visual component of the show was equally mesmerizing. Behind Summers, a large screen displayed a collage of photographs he had taken throughout his storied career. These visuals served as a stunning backdrop, creating a visual narrative that harmonized with the music. The result was an immersive experience that combined sound and sight, forging a profound connection between the artist and the audience.
The show culminated with the iconic “Message in a Bottle,” leaving the audience with a lasting memory of an extraordinary evening that transcended the boundaries of a typical concert.
Setlist: True Nature, Metal Dog, The Bones of Twang Zu, The Last Dance of Mr X, Tea in the Sahara, Round Midnight, Spain, Roxanne, Manha de carnaval, A Felicidade, Triboluminescence, Spirits in the Material World, Bring on the Night, Message in a Bottle
The Illusion, a Long Island based psychedelic rock band from the 1960s and 70s was recently inducted into the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHoF). At the induction ceremony, the group performed onstage for the first time in 51 years.
The Illusion made a name for themselves touring with the likes of The Who, The Allman Brothers Band, The Jimi Hendrix Experience, and more. The group’s first single was released in 1968, with their debut album, The Illusion, released on Steed Records the following year. The band continued with two more albums and ultimately dissolved in the early 1970s. The group notably worked alongside Jeff Barry (Tina Turner, The Crystals), who served as the band’s producer for all three of their albums.
The group was inducted into the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame on October 7, celebrating original members John Vinci, Rich Cerniglia, Chuck Alder, Mike Ricciardella, and the late Mike Maniscalco. Cerniglia, Alder, and Ricciardella took the stage alongside friends to play a selection of hit songs from their original discography.
The Illusion has had such a major impact and influence on so many of the performers who later themselves became inductees into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, it is high time they themselves became inductees. Congratulations to the Illusion on being inducted into the LIMEHoF.
Barry Fisch, General Manager of LIMEHoF
The Illusion is credited with being an influential figure in the Long Island rock scene, as well as a key influential figure for their friend and collaborator Jimi Hendrix. The group met Hendrix by chance at a recording studio early in their careers and went on to become close friends, frequently playing together across the country.
On October 14, a cool Brooklyn night, Elsewhere played host to an intimate and emotionally charged performance by the sensational Hannah Diamond, as she unveiled her latest album, Perfect Picture. The evening was a celebration of empowerment, self-confidence, and the universal struggles we all face in terms of self-perception, all wrapped in a visually and sonically captivating experience.
The tracklist of Perfect Picture takes us on a touching journey, each song delving into the complex web of emotions that revolve around self-identity and the pursuit of perfection. The album kicks off with the enchanting title track Perfect Picture, which immediately sets the tone for the night. As Hannah’s ethereal vocals blend with mesmerizing visuals, it’s clear that she is on a mission to explore the intricacies of human self-perception.
The theme of empowerment is prevalent throughout the album, and songs like “Affirmations” and “Unbreakable” stand out as anthems of self-confidence and resilience. These tracks evoke feelings of strength, freedom, and the realization that true beauty lies in embracing our flaws and imperfections. Hannah Diamond’s lyrics are a beacon of hope, reminding us that our self-worth should not be contingent on societal standards but on our ability to love ourselves.
The show was an intimate affair, which perfectly suited the album’s personal and vulnerable themes. The crowd’s energy was electric, with fans singing along and dancing in unison to the infectious beats. It was evident that Hannah had a genuine connection with her audience, making the performance feel more like an interactive conversation between friends rather than a traditional concert.
Hannah Diamond’s stage presence was nothing short of mesmerizing. She effortlessly navigated between her hit singles and the deep cuts from “No FX,” and it was clear that she was emotionally invested in every note she sang. Her humility and vulnerability on stage resonated deeply with the audience, as she encouraged everyone to embrace themselves.
Perfect Picture is an album that delves into the essence of human existence, examining the power of self-love and the beauty of imperfection. Hannah Diamond’s performance at Elsewhere Brooklyn was a testament to the depth of her artistry and her ability to connect with her fans on a profound level. In an industry that often perpetuates unrealistic ideals of beauty and perfection, Hannah’s music serves as a beacon of authenticity and self-empowerment, reminding us all that we are, indeed, perfect just the way we are.
The Museum of the City of New York opened a new exhibition, titled People, Place, and Influence: The Collection at 100. The exhibition celebrates 100 years of the Upper East Side museum, showing a selection of MCNY’s collection of over 750,000 objects.
The new exhibition opened on October 13, presented as part of the Museum’s Centennial celebrations. The selection includes rarely seen items such as a dress worn by opera star Marian Anderson, a golden Tiffany & Company tea and coffee set, a mouthguard used by boxer Joe Louis, and a 1985 street art painting by Sandra “Lady Pink” Fabara. Each object was selected from the museum’s collection of over 750,000 pieces, and reveals a unique perspective of the history of New York City.
Credit: Brad Farwell
A proud highlight of the exhibition, titled Produced by New York, shows a diverse collection crafted and sourced from New York City. Relics from pre-1973 Yankee Stadium, original runs of Broadway productions, Vera Maxwell masterpieces, and more show the rich and expansive culture of New York through the years.
For the last 100 years, MCNY has wrestled with the ambitious notion that a single institution can capture the history, physical transformation, and diversity of this complex metropolis. People, Place, and Influence is a testament to the enduring themes that have defined our museum over the last 100 years. We are not just showcasing objects; we’re weaving together the incredible narratives of a city that has shaped style, politics, and business on a global scale.
Lilly Tuttle, Curator, Museum of the City of New York
In addition to the selection of historical items, the exhibition also includes a look at the history and founding of the Museum of the City of New York. The museum stands as the first city museum in the United States, and is the only museum dedicated to telling the story of New York. People, Place, and Influence: The Collection at 100 is on display until April 21, 2024.
Credit: Brad Farwell
The Museum continues another centennial exhibition, This Is New York: 100 Years of the City in Art and Pop Culture. It features an interactive exhibit showcasing artists, writers, and creatives who were both inspired by and influenced the culture and development of New York City. This exhibit is on view through June 21, 2024.
The Museum is also hosting a monthly film and speaker series in celebration of the centennial, titled New York on Film: Decade by Decade. The events feature studio, independent, and documentary films that tell the story of New York City at the time they were made. A full schedule and lineup are available here.
Enso Taves, the New York-based Dominican singer-songwriter, has long been recognized for his unique fusion of Bachata with Latin American Bolero, Son, and Jazz. This remarkable combination of styles has earned him a dedicated fan base eager to embrace his upcoming release, “Tengo Sueños.”
Released on October 13, this single is not only a symbol of Enso’s artistry but also a testament to his ability to create contemporary music with the heart of traditional Bachata.
Enso Taves is more than just a singer-songwriter; he is a storyteller who weaves the rich cultural tapestry of his Dominican heritage into every note and lyric. His music can be described as elegant simplicity with a touch of sophisticated romance, a characteristic often associated with Bolero and Bachata. Yet, what sets Enso apart is his ability to infuse these traditional sounds with a modern twist, creating a unique listening experience.
“Tengo Sueños” begins with a warm and inviting melody, an unmistakable hallmark of Bachata. The song carries the heart of traditional Bachata with its gentle yet emotionally charged guitar strums, which form the backbone of the genre. The traditional bongo and maracas add a layer of authenticity to the rhythm, making you feel as though you’re dancing in a Dominican plaza.
But what sets “Tengo Sueños” apart is its fusion of these traditional elements with modernity. Enso Taves’ voice is velvety smooth, guiding you through the song’s narrative with a sense of intimacy and nostalgia. As the song progresses, a contemporary touch emerges with the incorporation of electric guitars and a richer percussive backdrop, hinting at the influence of pop and rock.
The lyrics of “Tengo Sueños” beautifully encapsulate the power of love to conquer adversity. As Enso sings:
“Tengo sueños tienes que dos también un verso que te quite el miedo de dorar fracto preñar tus sueños que esta historia empieza no… vamos a ver para fugar no donde quiera de no puedo corazón…”
Here’s the translation:
“I have dreams, you have two, a verse that takes away your fear, gilds the cracks, nurtures your dreams, this story begins now… let’s see where it goes, I can’t go anywhere, my heart…”
These words balance vulnerability and strength, emphasizing the importance of understanding each other’s dreams and fears in a relationship.
For Enso Taves, “Tengo Sueños” is not just a song; it’s a testament to his artistry and his commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of his Dominican roots while pushing the boundaries of contemporary music. Enso Taves will be taking this enchanting musical journey on the road with his upcoming “Bachata Bohemia 2023” tour, bringing this fusion of tradition and innovation to audiences around the world. The single promises to be a musical experience that transcends the barriers of time and tradition, carrying us into a world of love and dreams where the power of music knows no bounds.
The first episode of Saturday Night Live‘s 49th season aired on October 14, with former cast member Pete Davidson hosting, joined by musical guest and Bronx native, Ice Spice. The show had been on hold due to the recently ended Writers Guild of America strike.
Opening the show with an uncharacteristically serious message, Davidson discussed the events in Israel and Gaza, comparing the recent terrorist attacks to those of 9/11, when Davidson’s father Scott, a firefighter, was killed in the tragic events of that day. It was comedy – Eddie Murphy’s Delirious – that helped Pete deal with the childhood trauma he endured, and with saying that, Davidson shared he would try to be funny this evening.
And try he did, with a few fresh sketches – Wired Autocomplete Interview, Beach Day and Secretary – plus topical sketches including FOX NFL Sunday pregame coverage, where the hosts cannot stop talking about Taylor Swift, regardless of her lack of connection to football.
Davidson didn’t appear as Chad or at the Weekend Update desk as he would while a cast member, instead dialing all his energy into “I’m Just Pete,” a parody of “I’m Just Ken” from this summer’s Barbie movie. Self-deprecating to the core, Pete makes light of himself and criticisms of his character in a poignant and hilarious digital short.
Ice Spice served as musical guest for the first time on Saturday Night Live, having gained a following for her unique voice and style of rapping. This past week, the Bronx-native rapper won big at the 2023 BET Hip-Hop Awards for Best Breakthrough hip-hop artist, and coming up in November, she will open select dates for Doja Cat.
Standing stiffly on the Studio 8H stage, an LED box was created around Ice, with two dancers flanking her with a low LED ceiling and dancefloor, while she sang her hit “In Ha Mood.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4t2SKGjkTE
Ice Spice’s second song this evening was introduced surprisingly by Taylor Swift, with her new song “Pretty Girl” on, with Nigerian singer Rema joining her for a duet.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3FzkxeEACE
SNL returns on October 21 with host and musical guest, Bad Bunny.
Zach Bryan added new dates to his 2024 Quittin Time tour, including two shows on March 30 and 31 at UBS Arena.
The announcement comes a matter of weeks after Bryan surprised fans with the release of his Boys Of Faith EP, which has features from Bon Iver and Noah Kahan. That was preceded by his self-titled, self-written, and produced album which topped the Billboard 200 and Billboard’s Top Country, Rock & Alternative, Americana/Folk, and Rock Album charts. The most recent single from the album, “I Remember Everything (Feat. Kacey Musgraves),” also made history by topping the Billboard Hot 100, Hot Country Songs, Hot Rock Songs, and Hot Rock & Alternative Songs charts at once, being the first song ever to do so.
Support acts for Zach Bryan’s Quittin Time 2024 Tour will include Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Turnpike Troubadours, Sheryl Crow, The War And Treaty, Mt. Joy, Sierra Ferrell, The Middle East, Matt Maeson, and Levi Turner.
Fans can register for presale access for the newly added shows here, with presale beginning October 18. General on-sale begins October 20.
Broadway’s SPAMALOT is slated to begin performances on Tuesday, October 31, with the official opening ‘knight’ Thursday, November 16 at the St. James Theatre on 44th Street.
SPAMALOT features Tony Award nominee Christopher Fitzgerald (Waitress) as Patsy, Tony Award winner James Monroe Iglehart (Aladdin, Hamilton) as King Arthur, Taran Killam (“Saturday Night Live”) as Lancelot, Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer (Beetlejuice) as The Lady of the Lake, Tony Award nominee Ethan Slater (SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical) as The Historian/Prince Herbert, Jimmy Smagula (Billy Elliot) as Sir Bedevere, Drama Desk Award winner Michael Urie (“Shrinking,” Torch Song) as Sir Robin and Nik Walker (Hamilton) as Sir Galahad.
Additional cast include with David Josefsberg, Graham Stevens, Daniel Beeman, Maria Briggs, Gabriella Enriquez, Michael Fatica, Denis Lambert, Shina Ann Morris, Kaylee Olson, Kristin Piro, Drew Redington, Tyler Roberts, Anju Cloud, Darrell T. Joe, Lily Kaufmann, and Charlie Sutton. Iglehart, Kritzer, Smagula, Urie and Walker will be reprising their roles from the record-breaking sold-out run at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C.
SPAMALOT features SNL alum Taran Killam as Lancelot
The musical first galloped onto Broadway in 2005, featuring a book & lyrics by Eric Idle and music by John Du Prez and Eric Idle. The original Broadway production was nominated for 14 Tony Awards and won three, including Best Musical, Best Direction of a Musical (Mike Nichols) and Best Featured Actress (Sara Ramirez as The Lady of the Lake) and featured choreography by Casey Nicholaw. Josh Rhodes (Bright Star, Cinderella) will return from the Kennedy Center production to direct and choreograph on Broadway. Jeffrey Finn, Vice President & Executive Producer of Theater and Artistic Director, Broadway Center Stage at The Kennedy Center serves as lead producer.
The creative team also includes scenic and projection design by Paul Tate dePoo III, costume design by Jen Caprio, lighting design by Cory Pattak, sound design by Kai Harada & Haley Parcher, wig design by Tom Watson and music direction by John Bell. Casting is by JZ Casting, Matthew Lacey will serve as the Production Stage Manager and RCI Theatricals will serve as General Manager.
Gov’t Mule frontman Warren Haynes is hitting the road for three intimate solo shows in April, ahead of Gov’t Mule’s full spring tour, celebrating 30 years. Warren Haynes will playLove Rocks NYC at the Beacon Theatre in Manhattan on March 10.
Gov’t Mule performs for a sold-out crowd at the Salvage Station in Asheville, North Carolina on June 3, 2022. Photo by David Simchock
Love Rocks NYC is an annual charity event benefitting God’s Love We Deliver, a secular non-profit that prepares and delivers meals to sick New York City residents. The event takes place at The Beacon Theatre on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, and this year will feature performers including Mavis Staples, Hozier, Melissa Etheridge, Allison Russell, Larkin Poe, Tyler Bryant, David Shaw, and more. This year will mark Warren Haynes’ fourth appearance at the charity event on March 10.
After the past 2 years, I’m excited, like everyone else, to get back to doing what I love. With that in mind, I thought it would be fun to do a handful of intimate, solo shows before the Mule gets rolling.
Warren Haynes
Haynes will also make stops in South Deerfield, MA, and Ridgefield, CT along his solo run. In addition to Love Rocks NYC, Haynes will join his band Gov’t Mule at the Beacon Theatre on December 30 and 31. The group will tour in support of their most recent album, Heavy Load Blues, released in November 2021 to chart-topping success.
Pre-sale tickets for Love Rocks NYC go on sale Thursday, February 17th with the public on-sale starting Friday, February 18th at 10am ET. More information available here.
Tickets for the South Deerfield dates go on sale Tuesday, February 15th, at 6pm ET. Tickets for the Ridgefield show go on sale Wednesday, February 16th at 10am ET. For more details or to purchase, visit www.warrenhaynes.net.
For information on Gov’t Mule’s upcoming Spring 2024 tour, visit mule.net.
