NYS Music 2023

Tag: Music News

  • In Focus: Punk-Rock Icon Patti Smith Returns to the Brooklyn Steel for Birthday Show

    This past Friday, December 29, punk-rock icon, singer-songwriter, poet, artist, and New York Times Bestselling author Patti Smith graced the stage at the Brooklyn Steel for two nights. Patti returned for her birthday show, this time commemorating turning 77. Fans from all generations came to see Patti’s incredible, lively performance at Brooklyn’s intimate, 1800-capacity venue.

    Patti Smith, photographed by Sarah Hyun

    Patti Smith, though raised in South Jersey, moved to NYC at the ripe age of 21 to study art and poetry. Her bestselling novel, Just Kids, which details her experience living in NYC, brought a new wave of people—especially younger ones—to Patti’s fanbase and show. Although Patti is not currently touring, she frequently returns to NYC to play with her band which consists of Lenny Kaye, Jay Dee Daugherty, Tony Shanahan, and Jackson Frederick Smith (her son!).

    Patti Smith, photographed by Sarah Hyun

    Patti opened the night with an extraordinary rendition of “So You Want to Be a Rock ‘n’ Roll Star.” Scaling around the stage with incredible ease and her nimble dance moves, Patti made the crowd go wild with her performance. Her silver braids almost seemed to glow under the stage lights, drawing all eyes to her throughout the whole concert. One fan screamed, “I love you Patti! I’m your number one fan!” 

    After playing “Free Money,” Patti stopped and began conversing with the crowd about how confusing TV remotes are. “It’s unbelievable right? You need one to put the TV on, the other for volume, and the other to get the Netflix or whatever you want on. It’s taken me hours just to get the TV on.” A fan screamed “Happy Birthday!” where Patti responded with, “Not yet! Don’t age me any faster than I am.”

    Ending the night on a powerful note, Patti played “Because the Night” and “People Have the Power,” where she brought out her daughter Jesse Paris Smith and her high school friend Laura to sing. Patti Smith is truly legendary, and her show was nothing short of that.

  • mxmtoon, Live in Brooklyn!

    On December 15th, the indie-pop luminary mxmtoon/Maia wrapped up her “plum blossom (revisited) tour” in style at the cozy Roulette venue in Brooklyn, her adopted home. Despite her Bay Area origins, the artist warmly acknowledged the show as a second hometown gig, solidifying the special bond she shares with the Brooklyn crowd. The night was a whirlwind of distinctive moments, from a fan capturing the event with a 3DS to the collective knuckle-cracking orchestrated by Maia, showcasing both the uniqueness of her fanbase and her penchant for the offbeat.

    In a touching moment, the emotional crescendo transpired during the performance of “Stuck.” Overwhelmed by a fan project featuring signs proclaiming “you are more than enough for us,” Maia paused and restarted the song, getting overwhelmed with emotion and tearing up a bit over the profound connection her music forms with her dedicated followers.

    The concert became an interactive experience when Maia encouraged the audience to join her in a spirited rendition of “Prom Dress,” a poignant moment of shared emotion. Adding layers of sentimentality, Mxmtoon revealed that “Hong Kong” held a special place in her heart, as it was her mom’s favorite among all her compositions. The setlist, a carefully curated blend of fan favorites and surprises, included an unreleased jewel titled “Sarah,” a clever and quippy exploration of the concept of hate-watching YouTube videos.

    The night unfolded as more than just a concert; it was a narrative journey with Maia providing glimpses into the stories behind her songs. The anecdote about “I Feel Like Chet,” a song where her youthful enunciation led to amusing misinterpretations (like “I feel like shit”), showcased her ability to infuse humor into her reflections. The concert concluded with an encore, featuring a cover of Vance Joy’s “Riptide,” cementing the evening as a nuanced exchange between artist and audience, leaving an indelible mark on all those present.

    Setlist: cliché, the idea of you, mona lisa, sad disco, fever dream, porcelain, i feel like chet, temporary nothing, sarah (unreleased), hong kong, stuck, feelings are fatal, prom dress

    Encore: Riptide (Vance Joy cover)

  • Stephen Sanchez Triumphant Return to NYC

    Returning to the vibrant heart of New York City, Stephen Sanchez brought his magnetic presence back to the city that never sleeps, echoing his last unforgettable performance at Irving Plaza in February. The anticipation hung in the air as fans, eagerly awaiting this reunion, gathered at Terminal 5.

    Sanchez’s return was not just a concert; it was a homecoming, a testament to the enduring connection between the artist and the city that has played witness to his musical evolution. As the first notes reverberated through the venue, it was evident that this wasn’t merely a performance; it was a celebration of the artist’s journey, marked by growth, passion, and a profound connection with the diverse tapestry of New York’s music-loving community.

    Stephen sanchez

    Stephen Sanchez’s concert at Terminal 5 unfolded as a captivating saga, weaving together the artist’s soulful melodies and a profound connection with his dedicated fanbase. Earlier in the day, Sanchez set the tone with a fan meetup and popup in Brooklyn, creating an intimate space for admirers to engage with the artist whose music had become the soundtrack to their lives.

    As the night descended, Terminal 5 pulsed with anticipation. The setlist, featuring gems like “Something About Her” and “I Need You Most of All,” became a tapestry of emotions, each note echoing the artist’s journey. Sanchez’s stage presence was magnetic, drawing the audience into his world, especially the adoring fangirls who swooned with every nuanced movement. The unexpected covers of “Oh, Pretty Woman” and “Unchained Melody” showcased Sanchez’s ability to infuse timeless classics with his unique, soul-stirring style.

    The concert reached its zenith during the spirited performance of “Shake,” where the venue echoed with the energy of both the artist and his ardent fans. The soulful ballad “Death of the Troubadour” revealed the depth of Sanchez’s songwriting, creating a poignant contrast in the midst of energetic numbers. The night concluded on an emotional crescendo with “Until I Found You,” leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who witnessed Sanchez’s musical brilliance. This wasn’t just a concert; it was an immersive experience, a testament to the profound connection between an artist and the community that cherishes his every note.

    Setlist: Something About Her, Evangeline, I Need You Most of All, Only Girl, No One Knows, Doesn’t Do Me Any Good, Be More, [Oh, Pretty Woman (Roy Orbison cover)], High, Shake, Death of the Troubadour, Send My Heart With a Kiss, Howlin’ At Wolves, Unchained Melody (Hy Zaret & Alex North cover), The Pool, Until I Found You

  • Chris Garneau Releases New EP ‘Out Of Love’

    New York artist Chris Garneau has released his new EP Out Of Love on December 8, preceding a pair of new singles titled “Millions” and “First Man”.

    Chris Garneau Out Of Love
    Photo by Michael George

    Chris Garneau is an American alternative indie singer and songwriter who entered the music scene in 2006 after releasing debut album Music for Tourists. Garneau explores themes of excitement, heartbreak, surprise with the sound of electric guitar, upright bass and drums to round out powerful narrative anthems.

    “’First Man’ isn’t just about a first crush but more importantly an initial recognition of a person’s queerness. My boyfriend wrote the lyrics, basing it on his memories of falling in love with the macho action movie characters from his youth. The concept led to a laid back, folk rock country vibe, and that informed the other songs on the EP. I wanted the production to be mostly acoustic, back porch summer nights with a smoky saloon atmosphere. And thanks to JOFF art direction and styling, and photographer Michael George, the shots look like movie stills. Throughout the shoot, it felt like I was acting and inhabiting these characters’ spaces — that was the point of this whole EP, that’s exactly what we set out to do.”

    – Chris Garneau

    The EP is made up of four songs that are character driven and capture the feeling of being transformed by the way of love. This is Garneau’s first collaboration with his boyfriend Marc Briz, a lyricist and fiction writer. Garneau and Briz acknowledge their first recognition of being queer and veer towards the Americana; the lovesick cowboy, the celebrity actor who pines for the spiritual, the addict who leaves this earth with love for the life he lived.

    The EP sparks a lush and soulful ballad which emerges emotive songwriting and displays a layered sonic landscape, speaking truth towards owning your identity and casting off shame. The songs are powerful, poignant, and mesmerize the intensity of the story despite its dark subject matter. Chris continues to pursue a diverse array of sound that influence an otherworldly and sensible talent.

    Listen to “Out of Love” by Chris Garneau below.

  • Velocihamster Release Lap Steel Version of Mr. Mister’s “Broken Wings”

    Lap steel band Velocihamster have released a tribute to 80s band Mr. Mister with a cover of their #1 hit, “Broken Wings.”

    Mr Mister Broken Wings Velocihamster
    Cover artwork by Steven Bossler

    Velocihamster has been dubbed the worlds only lap steel metal band showcasing the external limits of steel guitar landscape and inspires the limits of the instrument. This single marks the first entirely solo effort in instrumentation with the exception of fretless bass played by longtime collaborator and friend Matt Turner (Static Chicken, Greg Koch). The tribute track honors Mr. Mister’s biggest hit “Broken Wings” released in 1985.

    Mr. Mister was an American pop rock band from Phoenix, consisting of Richard Page on lead vocals and bass guitar, Steve George on keyboards/backing vocals, Pat Mastelotto on acoustic and electronic drums/percussion and Steve Farris on guitars/backing vocals.

    “I’m hell-bent on extending steel guitar to musical eras, styles and genres you probably wouldn’t expect to hear the instrument, I’m proud to add this ’80s classic to an already diverse catalog of metal inspired lap steel mania. With this track, I’ve also earned my first credit as a drummer.”

    – Sean Williamson

    “Broken Wings” was the leading single on Mr. Mister’s second album release Welcome to The Real World, the song peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The song is a mix of synth, digitally delayed guitar, bass and drums. Velocihamster took a lap steel spin creating a unique version and an electric adaptation.

  • Gus Dapperton Takes Webster Hall by Storm

    Gus Dapperton’s performance at Webster Hall on November 30 was a captivating journey through a sonic tapestry, opening with a unique touch of vintage charm.

    Gus Dapperton, the moniker of Brendan Rice, emerged as a defining force in indie-pop, forging a musical path that blends nostalgia with contemporary vibes. Hailing from Warwick, NY, Dapperton rose to prominence with his breakout single “Prune, You Talk Funny,” showcasing a distinctive sound marked by dreamy melodies and introspective lyrics. His debut album, Where Polly People Go to Read, exemplifies his genre-defying approach, capturing the essence of his journey as an artist who seamlessly navigates between past influences and modern expression. With each release, Gus Dapperton continues to evolve his musical narrative, creating a unique space in the indie-pop landscape.

    As the band entered the stage, the crooning notes of “Fly Me to the Moon” reverberated from an old-timey speaker, setting an enchanting tone. From this moment, the audience was transported into the dreamy world that Dapperton effortlessly creates.

    The setlist unfolded like a carefully crafted narrative, seamlessly blending fan favorites and surprises. “Give It To Me Straight” and “Prune, You Talk Funny” showcased Dapperton’s signature blend of indie pop and funk-infused beats, keeping the crowd in a perpetual state of dance. The playful Drake-infused intro to “My Favorite Fish” added an unexpected twist, revealing the artist’s willingness to experiment within his established sound.

    Throughout the performance, Dapperton’s stage presence was magnetic, engaging the audience with every beat. The cover of Bruce Springsteen’s “I’m on Fire” demonstrated not only his vocal versatility but also his ability to reinterpret classics. A mysterious interlude came in the form of “Flatline,” injecting an element of suspense that kept the audience hanging onto each note.

    The energy reached its zenith during the encore, featuring “Horizons” and a lively rendition of “Twist and Shout.” Dapperton’s ability to connect with the audience and curate a setlist that seamlessly blended genres left concertgoers with a euphoric afterglow. The night stood as a testament to Dapperton’s artistry and showmanship, making it a performance to be remembered.

    Setlist: Fly Me to the Moon (In Other Words), Sunset, Palms, Give It To Me Straight, Ditch, [Prune, You Talk Funny], My Favorite Fish (With ‘In My Feelings’ by Drake intro), Medicine, [Gum, Toe and Sole], I’m Just Snacking, I’m on Fire (Bruce Springsteen cover), Flatline (Mystery song), First Aid, Midnight Train, Don’t Trust Me (3OH!3 cover), Fill Me Up Anthem, Wet Cement, Don’t Let Me Down, Post Humorous

    Encore: Horizons, Twist and Shout (The Top Notes cover)

  • Jersey Native Wiseboy Jeremy Releases New Single ‘Do I Not?’

    The drowned-out, underwater, lyrical east-coast sound is alive and well. In like manner, New Jersey native Wiseboy Jeremy brings the perspective of a hip hop every man while rhyming over jazz-tinged, contemplative production. His latest release, “Do I Not,” featuring Phoenix James is an ode to feeling like an underachiever and underwhelming life circumstances and “battling with ego.” Using a drowsy, sub-merged flow he sings on the chorus, “Do I not do enough, Do I not do enough for you.”

    ‘Do I Not?’ is for those lost within. Those looking elsewhere to find the answers that they end up discovering within themselves.

    – Wiseboy Jeremy
    Wiseboy Jeremy releases new single "Do I Not?"b.
    Wiseboy Jeremy plays the role of hip hop every man on “Do I Not?”

    Moreover, Wiseboy Jeremy has released an equally expressive music video for “Do I Not?” directed by himself and redbrags. In like manner, the music video tells a similar story of every day lethargy. From taking the train, doing laundry, a date night with your girl and the mental quarell between following your dreams and holding down a job. All in all, Jeremy paints the picture of he build up of inadequacy within every day life.

    Furthermore, “Do I Not?” sets the stage for Wiseboy Jeremy’s forthcoming project, Pumpkin Seeds, set for release in January of 2024. His last effort, 2022’s Still Chldrn is a meditative collection of stories painted over unquantized, Blues & Hip-Hop laced production. Its success led Jeremy to the eyes of publications such as Pigeons & Planes (where he won Best New Artist), Bandcamp, Frank Ocean’s Homer Radio, Daily Chiefers, Sheesh Media & more.

  • Charlie Wilson to Headline R&B Love Fest At UBS Arena On Mother’s Day

    R&B powerhouse Charlie Wilson will be headlining UBS Arena this upcoming mother’s day as part of Jammins Events’ R&B Love Fest 2024. Featuring KEM and legendary r&b group, Dru Hill, this soul-watering experience is set for Sunday, May 12. Presented by concert promotion/production mainstays, Jammins Events, R&B Love Fest 2024 will feature performances from legendary and contemporary artists.

    Charlie Wilson to headline R&B Love Fest 2024 at UBS Arena
    Charlie Wilson at the main stage during Stavernfestivalen in Stavern on 08. July 2016. Lineup: Charlie Wilson (vocal)

    To be able to do this with Charlie Wilson, KEM and Dru Hill – the entire line-up of talented artists, we are truly excited.

    – Jammins Management Team

    After all, the one nicknamed “Uncle Charlie” is a musical force that has maintained relevancy in a career spanning six decades. Overall, the music icon has garnered 13 Grammy nominations, while topping the R&B charts 13 times with number one singles. Not to mention decades of sold-out concerts, a New York Times and Washington Post best-selling memoir, I Am Charlie Wilson, a BET Lifetime Achievement Award and a Soul Train Icon Award. As such, he has both a star on the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame and will be receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2024. 

    https://youtu.be/25VQZA7yL-c?si=knXVaRnlo2n0LkC-

    Additionally, R&B veterans Dru Hill and KEM will be making guest appearance at R&B Love Fest. Of course, the former has cemented their place in R&B folklore through a series of No. 1 hits, while KEM has been a steadfast presence in the r&b landscape. Meanwhile, Dru Hill has received multiple awards and performed internationally and has topped the Billboard Music charts multiple times. 

    Tickets for R&B Love Fest go on sale to the general public on Friday, December 15 at 10 a.m. via Ticketmaster.

  • Benny The Butcher Drops Scintillating New Single And Music Video Ahead of New Album

    Benny The Butcher continues to ramp things up in anticipation of his Def Jam debut, Everybody Can’t Go. His latest drop, the thumping new single “One Foot In,” features frequent collaborator Stove God Cooks and sees Benny The Butcher continue his evolution into the mainstream.

    Benny The Butcher "One Foot In" covert art

    Accompanied by a scintillating music video, Benny The Butcher and Stove God exchange bars on life in the streets. Meanwhile, the hook illustrates this duality as Benny examines a life with one foot in the streets and one in the rap game. In like manner, the music video illustrates the parallels between life and the streets and life as a successful rapper. Coupled with more digestible production, the uptempo street anthem offers to fill the void of authentic street records that littered hip hop of yesteryear. However, despite the uptick in production budget, the Buffalo native has maintained his raw and descriptive style, with lyrics full of vivid imagery.

    And this one for the hustlers I was handing ounces. Now look at God, I wrote this in my Grammy outfit.

    – Benny The Butcher

    After all, “One Foot In” follows the release of Benny’s previous single, “Big Dog,” featuring Lil Wayne, who is no stranger to hard-hitting, lyrical bangers. Correspondingly, the record has already amassed 3.2 million Spotify streams and counting, with the music video tracking an additional 2.5 million views. With Everybody Can’t Go slated for a January 26 release, Benny continues to build anticipation for what could be a trajectory defining-album.

  • Music at Noon Series Returns to Troy Dec. 12 with Alan Goldberg

    Troy Savings Bank Music Hall returns with the free Music at Noon series, beginning with singer and song writer Alan Goldberg on December 12.

    Alan Goldberg

    Since 1988, on the second Tuesday of each month from October to May, the free Music at Noon concert series has presented exceptional musicians with a diverse mix of musical styles. Program sponsors include FAM Funds, Troy Redevelopment Foundation, New York State Council on the Arts, Fagan Associates, Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, MVP Healthcare, and the Saratoga National Bank. This show will feature the MVP Health Care Coffee Hour.

    Join the fun early for a FREE cup of Stacks coffee 11am -12pm before the show begins.  Shows are free to attend and be sure to bring your lunch.

    For more information please visit here.

    Dec 12 – Alan Goldberg – Americana/ Original Singer/ Songwriter 

    Jan 9 – Heliand Consort – Woodwind ensemble/ Vermont based 

    Feb 13 – CelloGayageum – Korean Classical Fusion 

    March 12 – Yvonne Chavez Hansbrough, Young Kim, and Paul Quigley – Flute/piano/guitar 

    April 9 – Spira – Chamber Quartet 

    May 14 – Findlay Cockrell – Piano