The upcoming Zamna Festival on Saturday, August 5th at The Brooklyn Mirage is where the jungle meets lasers, and raves meet paradise. A one-of-a-kind outdoor venue in East Williamsburg, The Brooklyn Mirage will be transformed into an immersive experience, Zamna’s signature oasis of electronic music, art, and culture.
Since its beginnings in 2017, Zamna Festival has since become an epicenter of electronic music. What EDM.com called “Tulum’s premier dance music experience,” Zamna draws tens of thousands of attendees from more than 110 countries around the world every year. Now, Zamna will debut their bears for their very first New York City, bringing the spirit of Tulum to Brooklyn with a complete venue takeover of The Brooklyn Mirage.
The Brooklyn Mirage prominently boasts a state-of-the-art KV2 sound system in addition to stellar three-dimensional video projection mapping technology. Part of the Avant Gardner complex, the multifaceted events space was nominated for ‘Best Club’ in the 2019 International Dance Music Awards. Forbes says “World-renowned venue The Brooklyn Mirage delivers some of the world’s hottest talent such as Kaskade, Zedd, Alesso, Charlotte de Witte, Dillon Francis, Tae of Us, Adam Beyer, Excision and Fisher.”
As the Phish Summer Tour nears its seven-night run at Madison Square Garden (MSG) in NYC from July 28 to August 5, pre-shows and after-parties have been announced orbiting around Phish’s showings at MSG. Many of these events are being held by Creative Entertainment Group (CEG) with two additional events by PhanArt.
July 28
The six-piece rock band Kendall Street Company will be playing live at the Cutting Room at 11:55 p.m., with a $25 fee and an age limit of 21 and over. The band is based out of Charlottesville, VA, and incorporates elements of jazz, folk, bluegrass, and funk in their songs. Tickets and more information can be found here.
July 29
July 29 will feature one of two shows by PhanArt as a part of its Summer in the City event at Hill Country Barbecue. With music be Sweeping Views, PhanArt will include artists and vendors from across the jam scene and country selling wares made by the fans, for the fans. Admission is free, with doors opening at 1:00 p.m.. More information can be found on PhanArt’s website.
Also at Hill Country is the free after-party with One Time Weekend, an “innovative shred-funk” quartet out of Connecticut. Known for high-energy live shows, “We Grove – You Move” is the mantra of One Time Weekend. Doors open at 11:00 p.m., with the show starting at 12:00 a.m.. More information can be found here.
At the Cutting Room will be Duane Betts and Palmetto Motel, a guitarist and singer-songwriter from Sarasota, FL. Playing alongside Dickey Betts, his father, in his band the Great Southern, Betts would later act as one of the founders for the Allman Betts Band. Doors open at 11:30 p.m. and the show starts at 12:30 a.m.. More information can be found here.
July 30
Pre-Phish at the Cutting Room will be the 50th Anniversary of Watkins Glen Summer Jam. With 600,000 in attendance, the original Watkins Glen Summer Jam in 1973 won the Guinness Book of World Records entry for “Largest audience at a pop festival.”
The 50th Anniversary Event will feature the music of The Grateful Dead, The Allman Brothers Band and The Band through The Allmost Brothers Band, ALEO productions performance of The Band, and Near Dead Experience. Doors open at 1:00 p.m., the show starts at 2:00 p.m., and more information can be found here.
A Phish After-Party Elton Jawn: Philly Phunk x Elton Dance Party will be held at Hill Country Barbecue. The Knotty G’s will be joined by Felix Pastorius, Neal “Fro” Evans of Dopapod, and Jeremy Kaplan of Dogs in a Pile. Doors open at 11:30 p.m., the show begins at 12:30 a.m., and tickets are $15. More information can be found here.
At the Cutting Room will be Space Bacon, with doors opening at 11:30 p.m. and the show starting at 12:30 a.m.. Tickets are $18. More information can be found here.
August 1
Grateful Dead tribute band Stella Blue’s Band will be holding two shows on Aug. 1, with the latter being a Phish after-party. Both are being held at the Cutting Room. Committed to recreating the authentic experience of being at a Grateful Dead show, they are based in the Tri-State area. The show is for all ages, with doors opening at 11:30 p.m. and the show starting at 11:59 p.m.. It is an all-ages show with $25 tickets. More information can be found here.
Art Thief & LINKS will be holding their After-Party at Hill Country Barbecue. Art Thief is a science fiction rock band from New Paltz, and LINKS is a 10-piece electrofunk futureband from Brooklyn. Tickets are $18 with doors opening at 11:00 p.m. and the show starting at 12:00 a.m.. More information can be found here.
August 2
At the Cutting Room will be LaMP, a band from Burlington, VT. Combining the talents of Russ Lawton, Scott Metzger and Ray Paczkowski, the trio has played together since 2018. Doors will open at 11:30 p.m. and the show will begin at 12:30 a.m.. Tickets are $25. More information can be found here.
Also that night, the Phish After-Party featuring Dizgo will be held at Hill Country Barbecue. It will feature the music of Talking Heads, Gorillaz & Dizgo. Doors open at 11:00 p.m., the show begins at 12:00 a.m., and tickets are $15. More information can be found here.
August 3
Since Phish isn’t playing this evening, why not check out an up and coming band you might not otherwise get a chance to see? Mercury Lounge will host Hilltop on August 3rd, with the Albany-based band bringing Thursday night funk and jams to those looking to keep boogieing down in between Phish shows. Joining Hilltop at Mercury Lounge will be Whaley + Ernie & The Band opening the night. Tickets available here.
August 4
Perpetual Groove, a rock band from Savannah, GA, will be playing at the Cutting Room. Doors will open at 11:30 p.m. and the show will begin at 12:30 a.m.. Tickets are $25 for the event, and are available here.
Also on this day is Lava Party, a pre-show event from 4:20-6:20 p.m. Admission is free with great food and beer selections.
August 5
PhanArt’s second show of the MSG run will take place on Aug. 5, also at Hill Country Barbecue. Different vendors and artists will be present, with Sweeping Views spinning live for this event as well.
Admission is still free, with doors also opening at 1:00 p.m. for the Aug. 5 show. More information can be found on PhanArt’s website.
Later that night at the Cutting Room, the improv rockers Eggy will be playing. The band is comprised of guitarist and vocalist Jake Brownstein, keyboardist Dani Battat, bassist Michael Goodman and drummer Alex Bailey. Doors will open at 11:30 p.m. and the show will begin at 12:30 a.m.. Tickets are $20, available here alongside more information.
Cutting Room is located at 44 East 32nd Street between Madison & Park Avenues. It is a five minute walk from MSG. Hill Country, meanwhile, is located at 30 W 26th St between 5th and 6th Avenues. It is also a five minute walk from MSG.
Porno for Pyros has announced their Horns, Thorns en Halos tour, which will feature stops in Manhattan and Port Chester. This tour marks 30 years since the release of Porno for Pyros, and is the first tour for the band in 25 years.
Credit: Andi K. Taylor
Porno for Pyros was originally founded in 1992 by members of Jane’s Addiction, vocalist Perry Farrell and drummer Stephen Perkins, as well as vocalist and guitarist Peter DiStefano and bassist Martyn LeNoble. The band went on hiatus in 1998 after releasing Porno for Pyros in 1993 and Good God’s Urge in 1996.
The original members reunified in 2022, performing at a sold-out show in Los Angeles, CA. Following this, the Porn for Pyros has performed at Rockville, the Chicago Metro, and Lollapalooza. They have also been working on new material that they expect to release sometime this year.
Upcoming Tour Dates
Oct. 8 – Hard Rock Live Sacramento – Wheatland, CA
Oct. 10 – The Masonic – San Francisco, CA
Oct. 13 – The Wiltern – Los Angeles, CA
Oct. 15 – The House of Blues Las Vegas – Las Vegas, NV
Oct. 17 – The Union – Salt Lake City, UT
Oct. 19 – Fillmore Auditorium – Denver, CO
Oct. 21 – Steelhouse Omaha – Omaha, NE
Oct. 23 – The Sylvee – Madison, WI
Oct. 24 – Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom – Chicago, IL
The Great South Bay Music Festival 2023, one of the most highly anticipated events of the summer, is set to make a triumphant return this year after facing numerous challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The festival begins on Thursday, July 20 and runs through Sunday, July 23rd.
As Long Islanders emerge from quarantine and yearn for the joy of live music, this family-friendly festival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts of all ages. I had the pleasure of speaking with James Faith, the festival’s producer, about the festival’s journey and what attendees can expect this time around on The Long Island Sound Podcast
The Great South Bay Music Festival, held in the picturesque Patchogue, Long Island, has always been a celebration of local talent alongside renowned artists from various genres. What sets this festival apart is its commitment to creating a family-friendly environment, where attendees of all ages can enjoy music from both local acts and big-name performers across multiple stages.
James Faith – Producer of the Great South Bay Music Festival
James Faith, the festival’s producer, emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive atmosphere, stating, “We want to make sure that families can come and enjoy the music together. It’s not just about the headliners; it’s about showcasing the incredible talent from our local community as well.” This unique blend of local and established acts allows for a diverse range of musical styles and ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Putting the Pandemic in the Past
Reflecting on the impact of the pandemic, Faith described the challenges faced by the festival and its organizers. Despite the uncertainties and setbacks, they remained committed to delivering a memorable experience for attendees. “We had to adapt and overcome numerous obstacles, but we never lost sight of our goal: to bring people together through the power of music,” Faith explained.
We want to provide a platform for emerging artists to shine alongside the big names. It’s about fostering a sense of community and giving these talented musicians the exposure they deserve.
James Faith
Now, as the festival gears up for its 2023 edition, attendees can look forward to an impressive lineup that embodies the festival’s spirit. A few of the local artists have been my guests on The Long Island Sound Podcast, including, Matt Marshak, Kerry Kearney, Lex Grey and Phil Firetog.
Among the artists set to grace the stages are Phil Lesh and Friends, Gov’t Mule, Dave Mason, Hot Tuna, Dirty Heads, Cassandra House, Kerry Kearney, Gold Finger, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Duane Betts, Bad Fish, Tauk, Neighbor, Miles to Dayton, Lex Grey and the Urban Pioneers, oogee Wa Wa, Clifdiver, Harbour, The Joni Project, Phil Firetog Trio, Shecky and the Twangtones, Adam and the Metal Hawks, Jules Radino, Jack Licitra, and Matt Marshak.
The Great South Bay Music Festival goes beyond just the music, offering a range of activities and amenities to enhance the overall experience. Attendees can explore artisan craft vendors, indulge in delicious food from local vendors, and engage in interactive workshops and activities for all ages. From art installations to face painting, there’s something to captivate the entire family.
Faith encouraged attendees to immerse themselves in the vibrant Long Island music scene by exploring the Long Island Music Hall of Fame in Stony Brook. This esteemed institution showcases the island’s rich musical legacy and pays tribute to iconic musicians such as Billy Joel, Eddie Money, Joan Jett, and many more.
The Great South Bay Music Festival promises to be a thrilling experience for music lovers and a testament to the resilience of the Long Island community. With its four-day duration, family-friendly atmosphere, and a diverse lineup of local and renowned acts, this festival is set to reclaim its place as one of the region’s premier summer events.
I have my tickets to the Festival! So when you see a white haired guy, who looks like the picture below, make sure you say hello.
Hot 97’s annual Summer Jam always kicks off the summer season with a bang, and this year did not disappoint. The show moved away from its fully outdoor experience at Metlife Stadium and into a hybrid approach at UBS Arena in Belmont, NY.
2Rare and NLE Choppa performing on the Warner Records Stage. Photo By: Lucas Kurzweil.
Summer Jam started outside of the arena with the Warner Records Stage, featuring up and coming artists in the hip hop world and guest appearances from some of hip hop’s biggest names. NLE Choppa, who was a main stage performer, joined 2Rare on stage to perform their hit song “Do It Again,” and French Montana, another main stage act, came out to greet the crowd and get them hyped for the full day of music.
After a couple hours at the Warner stage, the show moved to the inside of the arena. NLE Choppa opened up as fans started to fill in their seats. Choppa performed some of his most popular tracks including “Walk Em Down.” After Choppa, Bed-Stuy’s Lola Brooke took the stage with a high energy performance complete with a dance team and guest appearances from BreezyLYN and Billy B. By the time Lola’s set was finished there was not an empty seat in sight.
Lola Brooke at Hot 97 Summer Jam. Photo By: Lucas Kurzweil.
This year’s event had an emphasis on women in rap, and every female act that took the stage shined a bright light onto the future of the rap game. Coi Leray, one of the biggest female stars in hip hop today, took the stage following Lola Brooke’s performance. Coi’s smooth choreography helped boost her performance as fans went word for word singing her hit song “Girls Is Players Too.” Dancers were doing flips and using red solo cups as props during Coi’s set and matching her every move as she graced the stage.
Coi Leray at Hot 97 Summer Jam. Photo By: Lucas Kurzweil.
Last year’s headliner and East Flatbush native Fivio Foreign followed Coi and turned the crowd up to another level. It was only fitting that Fivio opened up his performance with “City of Gods,” his song that features Alicia Keys and Kanye West, and refers to New York City as the City of Gods. Fivio then brought out two New York Rappers to assist his performance: Brooklyn’s Sleepy Hallow and Bronx’s Lil Tjay. Sleepy performed his popular tracks “2055” and “Deep End Freestyle.” Lil Tjay joined Fivio in performing their track “Zoo York” and stayed on stage to support Fivio as he performed “Big Drip.”
Lil Tjay and Fivio Foreign at Hot 97 Summer Jam. Photo By: Lucas Kurzweil.
Up next was Bronx Rapper Ice Spice. Her performance on the Hot 97 stage was action packed to say the least. Ice Spice brought out numerous guests and received a gold plaque for her song “Munch (Feelin’ U)” while on stage. She brought Lil Tjay back out to perform their song “Gangsta Boo,” and she also brought out Flo Milli, Kali and Kenzo B. The crowd welcomed the guests with open arms as Flo Milli performed “Conceded” followed by Kali and Kenzo B performing their viral song “Area Codes.” Ice made sure to show appreciation to the New York City crowd, thanking them for her recent success.
Ice Spice at Hot 97 Summer Jam. Photo By: Lucas Kurzweil.
In between sets, Hot 97’s DJ Funk Flex played tunes to keep the fans engaged. But after Ice Spice’s set, Funk Flex brought out another surprise artist. DaBaby joined Flex in the DJ booth before taking the mainstage to perform his new hit “SHAKE SUMN.” DaBaby then went into the crowd to play “SHAKE SUMN” a couple of times and his song “Suge.”
DaBaby in the crowd at Hot 97 Summer Jam. Photo By: Lucas Kurzweil.
After DaBaby, French Montana took the stage. Like many other mainstage acts, French also brought out many surprise guests, including: Luh Tyler, Capella Grey, Remy Ma and NLE Choppa. Montana played many of his most popular tracks including “Unforgettable” and his verse on “All The Way Up.” Following French Montana, The LOX took the stage for their 50 years of Hip Hop performance. Their set brought fans back to the earlier days of hip hop with tracks like Jadakiss’s “Who Shot Ya (Freestyle)” and “We Gonna Make It” Even with their nostalgic performance they too had special guests, Rakim and Scar Lip.
Closing out the action packed night was Washington Heights native Cardi B. Cardi’s performance featured numerous pyrotechnical visuals with fire and smoke shooting out of the stage. Cardi followed the trends of Summer Jam by also bringing out a surplus of surprise performers, her guests were Kay Flock, Glorilla, Latto and 21 Savage. She had the crowd going to all of her tracks as she went through her discography for the sellout crowd. Her performance showed the New York fans that Summer Jam will continue to be a staple in hip hop culture and although the event moved, its high quality performances stayed the same.
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) announced a benefit concert entitled “Funtastic 2023,” including performances from Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo with Taylor Dayne. The concert will take place at the Catholic Health Amphitheater at Bald Hill in Farmingville on July 23rd at 7:30pm.
The founding members created the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2004 as a place of community that inspires and explores Long Island music in all its forms. According to their website, their mission statement is, “to celebrate the rich music and entertainment heritage of Long Island and support music and arts education for future generations.”
Additionally, the organization has inducted over 100 musicians and music industry executives, including Benatar and Dayne.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for all Long Islanders to enjoy a terrific concert in a wonderful venue and support the Hall of Fame’s mission of keeping Long Island’s music heritage alive,” LIMEHOF board chairman Ernie Canadeo said.
Tickets for Funtastic 2023 are available for purchase here.
Max Schneider, the charismatic and multi-talented artist, set the stage on fire as he opened for Big Time Rush on June 9th at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, Long Island. With his infectious energy and undeniable talent, Max captivated the crowd from the moment he stepped foot on stage.
This highly anticipated show brought together fans who were eager to witness the magic unfold. As the sun set and the first notes reverberated through the air, it became evident that this night would be filled with unforgettable moments. The atmosphere was electric as fans anxiously awaited Max’s performance, knowing they were about to be treated to an extraordinary display of musical prowess and captivating stage presence.
Max Schneider, the versatile and dynamic artist, is making a name for himself with his magnetic blend of pop, R&B, and soul. Hailing from Manhattan, Max’s musical journey began at a young age, with songs like “Someday” from the Nickelodeon movie he starred in Rags. Since, he’s immersed himself in various genres and honing his craft as a singer and songwriter. With his undeniable talent and captivating stage presence, Max quickly gained attention and built a devoted fanbase.
His music is marked by infectious melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and an innate ability to connect with his audience on a deeply personal level. With breakout hits like “Lights Down Low” and “Love Me Less,” Max showcases his versatility as an artist, effortlessly blending catchy pop hooks with soulful vocals.
As he continues to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories, Max’s star continues to rise, solidifying his position as a rising force in the music industry. With a string of successful releases and an electrifying stage presence, Max Schneider is poised to captivate audiences around the world with his undeniable talent.
Max’s performance at Jones Beach Theater was an exhilarating display of his immense talent and showmanship. With a setlist that spanned his diverse discography, Max delivered a high-energy and unforgettable performance that had the crowd on their feet from start to finish.
Kicking off the set with the infectious hit “Love Me Less,” Max immediately established a powerful connection with the audience. The atmosphere was electric as he seamlessly transitioned into a medley of “Holla” and “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” infusing his own unique style into these iconic tracks.
Max’s versatility as an artist was on full display as he effortlessly shifted gears into the hypnotic and dreamy “Acid Dreams.” The crowd was captivated by his smooth vocals and mesmerizing stage presence, fully immersed in the musical vibes he created.
Taking a moment, Max performed a heartfelt mashup of “Someday” and “Me And You Against The World,” showcasing his ability to tug at heartstrings with his soulful delivery and emotionally charged lyrics. The audience swayed along, enveloped in the powerful atmosphere Max created.
The highlight of his set was the debut of a new, unreleased track titled “Say Less.” The funky and energetic song ignited the crowd, with its infectious hooks and irresistible groove. Max’s performance of this fresh offering left fans eager for what’s to come from his forthcoming album.
Continuing to dazzle the audience, Max delved into the energetic yet intimate “Blueberry Eyes,” a fan-favorite that showcased his vocal prowess, korean rapping mastery, and ability to evoke genuine emotions. The crowd sang along, creating a beautiful moment of unity and connection.
With “Strings,” Max demonstrated his artistry and musicianship, delivering a captivating performance that showcased his skill on the guitar. The intricate melodies and heartfelt lyrics resonated deeply with the audience, further solidifying Max’s status as a true musical talent.
The energy reached its peak as Max unleashed the infectious anthem “Satisfied.” The crowd erupted into cheers, dancing and singing along to every word. Max’s infectious energy and stage presence were contagious, filling the venue with an electrifying atmosphere.
A standout moment came with the performance of his chart-topping hit “Lights Down Low.” As the opening chords filled the air, the entire stadium was illuminated by the sea of phone flashlights held up by fans, creating a magical sight and a testament to the profound impact this song has had on listeners.
Closing out the set with the powerful and dynamic “Mug Shot,” Max left the audience craving more. In a moment of excitement and anticipation, he announced a forthcoming album, set to be released at the end of the year, accompanied by an accompanying tour. The crowd erupted into cheers, eagerly awaiting what promises to be another exceptional chapter in Max’s career.
His performance was a masterclass in showmanship, talent, and connection. With an electrifying stage presence, a versatile setlist, and an unwavering connection with his fans, Max proved once again why he is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. As fans eagerly anticipate his upcoming album and tour, it’s clear that Max Schneider will continue to rise, and his captivating performances leave an indelible mark on all who have the pleasure of witnessing his artistry.
Stay up to date with Max on socials and any updates from upcoming tour here.
MAX Setlist: Love Me Less, Holla / Drop It Like It’s Hot, Acid Dreams, Someday / Me And You Against The World, Say Less [Unreleased], Blueberry Eyes, Strings, Satisfied, Lights Down Low, Mug Shot
With Mass Appeal and Live Nation’s Hip Hop 50 Live show at Yankee Stadium less than a month away, new talent has been added to the already stacked lineup.
Some may think that having Run-D.M.C., Snoop Dogg and Lil Wayne already on the roster, there is no possible way to improve the show, but they would be wrong. The new additions include Wiz Khalifa, who will be joining Snoop Dogg for a joint performance, Bronx rapper A Boogie wit da Hoodie, Bronx DJ and Rapper Kid Capri, and Harlem’s own Cam’ron.
Fans can expect a performance of Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa’s hit song “Young, Wild and Free” along with many other classics that span the decades of their respective careers. A Boogie wit da Hoodie is hot off of his world tour, where he performed at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn last March in addition to stopping into Legacy Records in Dumbo to meet some of his fans.
A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie at his fan meet and greet at Legacy Dumbo. Photo By Lucas Kurzweil.
The Hip Hop 50 show is shaping up to be one for the ages as we celebrate a half decade of Hip Hop where it all started: The Bronx. Tickets for the show are available HERE on Ticketmaster.
The Pleasantville Music Festival 2023 was held on July 8th at Parkway Field, in Pleasantville. This year’s lineup featured many New York State based performers; including headliners, They Might Be Giants.
They Might Be Giants
Curating a one-day event with 18 musical acts, on three stages, is a daunting task. Aiding in the selection process, The Garage at Lucy’s. The Garage, a Pleasantville music club, hosted a series of battle of the band competitions. Victors were given the opportunity to open the day on one of the three stages.
Allison Ponthier
With the lineup complete, the festival was good to go. First up on the Pamnation Party Stage, Hunter Road. This Valhalla based group set the bar high for the following acts, with their rocking opening set. On the Party Line Chill Tent Stage, singer songwriter Ursula Hansberry performed solo, sharing her bluesy jazz style with the early attendees. On the main stage, overall battle of the band winner Summer Fling welcomed everyone with a distinctive funk, rock, pop sound.
Summer Fling
Kudos to the festival for their music traffic management allowing people to move from stage to stage without missing acts they would like to see. From Chill, to Party, to Main, the groove of each stage matched its description. The sequencing of bands was also spot on. When one band finished, the next one picked up where the last one left off, talking it to the next level.
Hunter Road
Mother nature made a special appearance at Pleasentville Music Festival 2023, bringing with her two rounds of pouring rain and lightning. This required the stoppage of music and the need for people to leave the park grounds till the storms passed. Even with two delays, many stayed through the end. In retrospect, instead of being a deterrent, the rain acted like a cleansing of the pallet, as if to prepare oneself for the next musical course.
Allman Betts Band
In addition to some of New York State’s finest musicians, there were notable national acts on the bill. Sophie B. Hawkins took to the Chill tent stage in bare feet, closing out that performance space. People were spilling out beyond the sides of the tent to get an earful of her music. On the main stage The Allman Betts Band shared originals while slipping in a few Allman Brothers tunes, to the crowd’s pleasure. Allison Ponthier was a glow with her indie pop sound, sharing a new unreleased song as part of her set.
Sophie B. Hawkins
Multi Grammy Award winners John Flansburgh and John Linnel, aka They Might Be Giants, brought the night to a close. With forty years of performing under their belt, they did not hold back. Backed by a full band (including The Horns), TMBG bestowed on the crowd their surreal, humorous, experimental style of music, jamming on tunes till it was time to go.
Main Stage
They Might Be GiantsAllman Betts BandAllison PonthierBlac RabbitSmooch w/Matt CrossettSummer Fling
Pamnation Party Stage
The CriticalsStrange NeighborsMoonunittSunDubSocial CreaturesHunter Road
Party Line Chill Tent Stage
Sophie B. HawkinsPete FrancisBrandi & The AlexandersThe Moonrise CartelDave Casale w/Petey HopUrsula Hansberry
Times Square Alliance has announced its this years schedule for its annual arts initiative, Times Square Live (TSQ LIVE).
This years TSQ LIVE will be a series of over 80 free, open-air performances across its public plazas, beginning this May and running through September 2023. Marking its biggest series to date with more partners than ever, TSQ LIVE will be NYC’s largest public program series featuring DJ sets, live concerts, and dance performances from some of the most prestigious organizations in NYC and beyond, including Pioneer Works, Carnegie Hall, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Ailey Extension, New York Live Arts, Rash Bar, Elsewhere, and Soul Summit.
“This summer we have the chance to turn over Times Square to the artists, musicians and performers that make New York City such an incredible place. In turn, the plazas of Times Square become a stage for over 80 free events – from punk shows to classical music; West African dance workshops to voguing classes -all timed to reach the millions in Times Square this summer heading home from work, to a show or visiting for the very first time,”
TSQ Arts Director Jean Cooney
Each year in the warmer months, the Times Square Alliance celebrates New York City’s creative community and vibrant arts ecosystem with TSQ LIVE, offering free and accessible programs nearly every weekday to the hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers and visitors that pass through the Crossroads of the World. The series spotlights the rich diversity of talent found on our city’s streets, and brings together artists, performers and cultural partners from quintessential New York institutions to share their work in one of the world’s most iconic public stages.
Programs
Tune in on Tuesdays to hear NYC-based DJs bring their expert craft to music lovers and passersby in Times Square. The series kicked off from May to June presented by Brooklyn-based Rash Bar, and followed with programs by Brooklyn venue Elsewhere to return in August. Once a month from July to September, DJ collective Soul Summit will bring their soulful house music to the plazas of Times Square, along with other local DJs joining the celebration each Tuesday in July at 5 pm.
Brooklyn-based leading nonprofit cultural center Pioneer Works, known for their experimental music program and residency, is curating and presenting a series of musical performances featuring past, current, and future musicians-in-residence across all genres, including Michael Foster, Corrine Jasmin, Avola, Greg Fox, H x H (Lester St. Louis & Chris Williams), Kwami Winfield, Ciarra Black, Brent Arnold, and Issei Herr.
Photo courtesy of Michael Hull for the Times Square Alliance.
Jazz at Lincoln Center is taking over Times Square to bring New York City’s jazz scene to Broadway, creating the feeling of an intimate club amidst the lights and sounds of the city. In keeping with its mission to entertain, enrich, and expand a global community for jazz through performance, education, and advocacy, the organization will present a dynamic array of musicians including Naledi Masilo, Mariel Bildsten Septet, and Roxy Coss Quartet.
Check out NYC’s buzziest up-and-coming talent live on Fridays in Times Square. Musicians from New York City and beyond will present free concerts, ranging from indie, pop, and electronic, many of whom will be celebrating the debut of new work or an upcoming summer album release.
Rescheduled due to inclement weather, Carnegie Hall will host a free concert in Times Square by accordionist Gregorio Uribe, known for his eclectic Colombian rhythms, celebrating sensational sounds from across the country and around the globe.
FULL JULY SCHEDULE
Wednesday, July 5, 5 pm: Live Music with Pioneer Works | The Manhattan Review of Unnatural Acts (Broadway & 43rd St)
Thursday, July 6, 5 pm: Live Music with Jazz at Lincoln Center | Winard Harper and Jeli Posse (Broadway & 46th St)
Friday July 7, 6 pm: Live Music on Summer Fridays | Julia Wolf (Broadway & 46th St)
Tuesday, July 11, 5 pm: DJ Sets with Soul Summit Music (Broadway & 43rd St)
Wednesday, July 12, 5 pm: Live Music with Pioneer Works | Ciarra Black (Broadway & 43rd St)
Thursday, July 13, 5 pm: Live Music with Jazz at Lincoln Center | Mariel Bildsten Septet (Broadway & 46th St)
Friday, July 14, 6 pm: Live Music on Summer Fridays | Brooke Alexx (Broadway & 46th St)
Tuesday, July 18, 5 pm: DJ Sets with Disco Tehran (Broadway & 43rd St)
Wednesday, July 19, 5 pm: Live Music with Pioneer Works | Brent Arnold: Solo Cello & Electronics (Broadway & 43rd St)
Thursday, July 20, 5 pm: Live Music with Jazz at Lincoln Center | Naledi Masilo [in honor of Nelson Mandela’s Birthday Celebration] (Broadway & 46th St)
Friday, July 21, 5 pm: Live Music with Carnegie Hall | Gregorio Uribe (Broadway & 46th St)
Tuesday, July 25, 5 pm: DJ Sets | (Broadway & 43rd St)
Wednesday, July 26, 5 pm: Live Music with Pioneer Works | Kwami Winfield (Broadway & 43rd St)
Thursday, July 27, 5 pm: Live Music with Jazz at Lincoln Center | Roxy Coss (Broadway & 46th St)
Friday, July 28, 6 pm: Live Music on Summer Fridays | (Broadway & 46th St)
FULL AUGUST SCHEDULE Tuesday, August 1, 5pm: DJ Sets with Elsewhere | Swami Sound (Broadway & 43rd St)
Wednesday, August 2, 5pm: Live Music with Pioneer Works | Issei Herr/Princess Princess feat. Concrete Husband (Broadway & 43rd St)
Thursday, August 3, 5pm: Live Music with Jazz at Lincoln Center | Grace Fox Big Band (Broadway & 46th St)
Friday, August 4, 6pm: Live Music on Summer Fridays | The Scarlet Opera (Broadway & 46th St)
Tuesday, August 8, 5pm: DJ Sets with Soul Summit (Broadway & 43rd St)
Wednesday, August 9, 5pm: Live Music with Pioneer Works | Corrine Jasmin (Broadway & 43rd St)
Thursday, August 10, 5pm: Dance with Ailey Extension | 50th Anniversary Celebration Hip Hop Class with TweetBoogie feat. LIVE DJ (Broadway & 46th St)
Friday, August 11, 5pm: Dance with Brickhouse NYC | 50th Anniversary Celebration Hip Hop Showcase (Broadway & 46th St)
Tuesday, August 15, 5pm: DJ Sets with Elsewhere | Jubilee (Broadway & 43rd St)
Wednesday, August 16, 5pm: Live Music with Pioneer Works | The Chutneys (Broadway & 43rd St)
Thursday, August 17, 5pm: Live Music with Jazz at Lincoln Center | Simon Moullier Quartet (Broadway & 46th St)
Friday, August 18, 6pm: Live Music on Summer Fridays (Broadway & 46th St)
Tuesday, August 22, 5pm: DJ Sets with Rash Bar | Time Four You to Get a Watch (Broadway & 43rd St)
Thursday, August 24, 5pm: Dance with OTA Vogue Academy | Dance Class (Broadway & 46th St)
Friday, August 25, 5pm: Live Music on Summer Fridays | Backwoodz Studioz Showcase featuring Fatboi Sharif, Fielded, Cavalier, and E L U C I D (Broadway & 46th St)
Tuesday, August 29, 5pm: Dance with Big Apple Ranch | Line Dancing with Jon Lee (Broadway & 43rd St)
Wednesday, August 30, 5pm: Live Music with Pioneer Works | H x H (Lester St. Louis & Chris Williams) (Broadway & 43rd St)
Thursday, August 31, 5pm: Live Music with Jazz at Lincoln Center | Endea Owens and the Cookout (Broadway & 46th St)
For more information, please visit Times Square Live’s website.
