Tag: Music News

  • Hank Williams Jr. Announces 2024 US Tour

    Singer-songwriter Hank Williams Jr. has announced his upcoming tour, including stops at Broadview Stage at SPAC on August 23 and EFCU Amphitheater at Lakeview on August 24.

    Hank Jr. has continued to redefine the boundaries of rock and country music with the genre crossing and top charting release of his new album Rich White Honky Blues, debuting at number one on the current Country, Americana/Folk and Blues album charts. The album delivers reinvigorated classic blues sounds infused with William’s signature rock and country twist. As a touring artist Hank Jr. was a pioneer in bringing arena rock production values to country music and remains one of the most consistent ticket sellers in music, turning into one of the most dynamic live performers ever to take the stage.

    In addition to Williams Jr. the upcoming tour will involve support from many other artists including Whiskey Myers, Neal McCoy, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Charley Crockett, Marty Stuart His Fabulous Superlatives, and Old Crow Medicine Show.

    Marking the official 45th anniversary of the release to hit single and album Family Tradition back in 1979. The 13 city tour kicks off on Friday, April 5 at Legacy Arena at The BJCC in Birmingham, AL, making stops across the US highlighting pit stops in New York on August 23 and 24 at the Broadview Stage in Saratoga Springs and EFCU Amphitheater in Syracuse.

    Tickets are on sale Friday, December 8 at 10am local, please visit here.

    HANK WILLIAMS JR. 2024 TOUR DATES:
    April 5 – Birmingham, AL – The Legacy Arena at The BJCC
    April 20 – Bossier City, LA – Brookshire Grocery Arena
    May 17 – Raleigh, NC – Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
    May 18 – Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live
    June 7 – Hartford, CT – The XFINITY Theatre
    June 8 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center
    June 21 – Cuyahoga Falls, OH – Blossom Music Center
    June 22 – Clarkston, MI – Pine Knob Music Theatre
    August 9 – Charlotte, NC – PNC Music Pavilion
    August 10 – Virginia Beach, VA – Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach
    August 23 – Saratoga Springs, NY – Broadview Stage at SPAC
    August 24 – Syracuse, NY – Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview

    September 14 – Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center

  • Mackenzie Shivers shares Love Song “Pedestal”

    New York folk-pop artist Mackenzie Shivers released her newest single “Pedestal” on November 30, the second track from upcoming album Primrose was in Season.

    Mackenzie Shivers

    Shivers boldly gives us a glimpse into her healing process after loss during her first pregnancy, capturing a depth of feeling that illuminates both her resilience, strength and vulnerability. A mix of electric guitar, organic drums, dance beats and Shiver’s trademark piano bolster highlighting her most adventurous work to date.

    “Pedestal”, at it’s core is a love song, overcoming hardship with the one you love and enduring the face we show to the world and to ourselves. Shiver’s illustrates a powerful portrait of feminine inner fragility and strength, intertwining magic with grief. “Pedestal” follows the release of album opener’s, “A cautionary tale”, that stands as an ethereal pop track capturing internal struggles confessing that Shivers is not always as put together as she seems, while pulling the listener into a stunning musical terrain.

    “The creation of ‘a cautionary tale’ and the subsequent nine tracks that would make up my upcoming album was creative and buoyant, bringing joy to a very difficult time in my life. I was struggling to get pregnant and stay pregnant. I felt like the odds were against me, like I couldn’t gain control of my own life. But in the studio, I felt like I had some control over what I was making, and I was also having a blast.”

    – Mackenzie Shivers

    For more information visit here. Listen to Mackenzie Shivers “Pedestal” below.

  • Gogol Bordello and Bernard Summer Release Cover of “Solidarity”

    Gogol Bordello and Bernard Summer have released their cover of “Solidarity” by Angelic Upstarts.

    Ukrainian frontman Eugene Hütz of international punk rock band Gogol Bordello, have announced the re-launch of his label Casa Gogol Records and set to showcase the sound of the New York scene and collaborate with legends of the punk rock community. Casa Gogol first started as a touring series curated by Hütz, focusing on bringing like-minded artists on the road with Gogol Bordello. 

    Casa Gogol released a cover collaboration on November 27, with Gogol Bordello and Bernard Summer of Angelic Upstarts’, “Solidarity”, to honor tribute to the anti-soviet movement to benefit Ukraine and stand in solidarity with oppressed groups worldwide. Aiming to provide proceeds to Ukrainian soldiers recovery, aid children affected, support needed medical supplies and provide other resources.

    This is a particularly meaningful collaboration for us. To do this tribute with one of the most masterful and brilliant pioneers, Bernard Sumner, is truly epic and timely.”

    – Eugene Hütz

    “Solidarity” uses powerful lyrics that is upbeat, influential and highlights the importance of Ukraine while they sing, “As the people of Ukraine take their stance, and behind them, every honest living man.” They chant, “Give them hope, give them strength and give them light,” to tribute and bring peace to the people of Ukraine. A strong backbeat sews the song together with violin, guitar, and synthesized sounds on the keyboard that pulls punk and rock into a moving tune.

  • Poolside Announce 2024 “Blame It All On Love Tour,” New Single “Lonely Night”

    Poolside has announced their 2024 headlining North American Tour with a pit stop at Brooklyn Steel on February 17, and new single “Lonely Night (French version)” released on November 14.

    Poolside is the recording project of producer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jeffrey Paradise. In 2011, Poolside has set out to produce chill music for summer soirees, a light and danceable kind of music with liquid rhythm that was named “Daytime Disco”.

    “When Poolside sent me the demo for Lonely Night, I was immediately inspired by the song. I first wrote the lyrics in French and sent it to Jeff and he proposed the idea of having a version in English as well” 

    – MUNYA

    Jeffrey Paradise revealed the French version of “Lonely Nights” with MUNYA on November 14, from his latest album Blame It All On Love and is pleased to announce upcoming tour dates for 2024 starting in Santa Barbara at the Soho Music Club on January 19.

    While this is Poolside’s fourth studio album, Paradise leaves the shallows and enters the depths of his own creative voice. The eleven tracks are funky, playful, laidback and full of hooks that elevate Poolside’s sound to poignant pop heights. The lo-fi ballad “Lonely Night” co-written with MUNYA incorporates all the sweet things that make an easy to love song and blends it with romantic melancholy that adds a softness of verses in French.

    All general ticket sales begin Friday, November 27, for more information please visit here.

    Upcoming Poolside Tour Dates:

    2024 ‘Blame It All On Love Tour’

    Jan 19 – Santa Barbara, CA – SoHo Music Club

    Jan 20 – San Luis Obispo, CA – Fremont Theater

    Jan 25 – Del Mar, CA – The Sound

    Jan 26 – Los Angeles, CA – The Wiltern

    Jan 27 – Oakland, CA – The Fox

    Jan 28 – Sacramento, CA – Ace of Spades

    Jan 30 – Boise, ID – Treefort Music Hall

    Feb 01 – Portland, OR – Wonder Ballroom

    Feb 02 – Seattle, WA – Showbox

    Feb 03 – Vancouver, BC – Hollywood Theatre

    Feb 06 – Denver, CO – Ogden Theatre

    Feb 08 – Minneapolis, MN – The Fine Line

    Feb 09 – Chicago, IL – The Vic

    Feb 10 – Detroit, MI – The Majestic Theatre

    Feb 13 – Toronto, ON – The Opera House

    Feb 14 – Montreal, QC – El Studio

    Feb 15 – Boston, MA – The Sinclair

    Feb 17 – Brooklyn, NY – Brookyln Steel

    Feb 18 – Philadelphia, PA – Brooklyn Bowl

    Feb 20 – Richmond, VA – The Broadberry

    Feb 21 – Washington, DC – The Atlantis

  • The Egg Hosts Appreciation Concert For Veterans and Responders

    The Grooving Classic Rock Legends Tribute band provided an intimate performance at The Egg’s Swyer Theater on Saturday, November 25, 2023.

    The show featured tribute bands playing classic rock and pop hits from the 60s and 70s from artists such as The Beach Boys, The Jimi Hendrix Experience, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. Grooving Classic Rock Legends plays at major theaters and festivals throughout the Northeast, recreating those sights and sounds.

    'Groovin' Classic Rock Legends

    This group of veteran musicians have been playing classic rock for decades, specializing in songs from the era. They perform their songs with authentic instruments, costumes, and stage presence, and even recreate some of their legendary live performances. Proceeds from the show went to local non-profit organizations in the community.

    The show was a blast for fans of classic rock, who enjoyed singing along, dancing, and reminiscing about the good old days when they played at Yezzi’s. The bands delivered high-quality performances that captured the spirit and sound of the original artists. The band also honored veterans and first responders who attended, by dedicating some songs to them and thanking them for their service. The three hour show was a success, despite the low attendance due to Thanksgiving weekend. The venue was cozy and comfortable, and the staff was friendly and helpful.

    Jim Anderson and Gary Weinlein served as promoters, with Weinlein also performing in the show, which had ‘appearances’ from Jim Morrison, Grace Slick. The Doors, Santana and Linda Ronstadt, who brought back memories of Governor Moonbeam, and all the craziness of that time. The night closed with Eric Clapton, a standing ovation and the crowd getting a chance to meet the performers in the lobby.

    Over the past 8 years Groovin’ Legends has performed at Proctors, The Palace Theatre and The Egg, donating over $30,000 to local Veteran groups through ticket sales. The Veteran groups include The Gold Star Mothers, Blue Star Mothers, Gold Star Families Memorial at Lafayette Park in Albany, NY, Tri County Council Vietnam Era Veterans, and the Veterans Miracle Center.

  • R&B Star Fridayy To Headline Webster Hall On December 5

    Grammy-nominated R&B sensation Fridayy is heading to New York City as part of his “A Night w Fridayy” tour. The Def Jam signee is in the midst of his first country-wide trek following the release of his self-titled debut-album in August of 2023. Moreover, the Haitian-bred singer will hit 4 major markets during a 4-date mini troop. Presented by Live Nation, the Philadelphia native will perform in four of the countries biggest markets, further establishing himself as a force in the industry. With this intention, the tour will begin with a sold-out show in Atlanta on Friday, December 1, followed by a two-night east coast run — icluding a hometown performance in Philadelphia’s Theater of Living Arts — and a stop at Manhattan’s Webster Hall. Altogether, “A Night w Fridayy” culminates with another sold-out show in Los Angeles.

    Fridayy to perform at Webster Hall
    Grammy-nominated Fridayy heading to Webster Hall on December 5

    Fridayy’s Comeup

    Following years laying groundwork, Fridayy gained mainstream traction with features on DJ Khaled’s “God Did” and Lil Baby’s “Forever,” with the former’s success earning him 3 Grammy-nominations. Since then, the R&B crooner has gone on to release his debut project while continuing to set personal milestones. Accordingly, he made his  BET Soul Train Awards debut this past Sunday as he performed his latest single, “When It Comes To You.”

    Tickets for “A Night w Fridayy”can be found here.

  • ‘A Very Merry Punxmas’ Returns to New York City

    New York indie pop punk label, Manic Kat Records is bringing the gift of pop punk, rock, emo and alternative to NYC with it’s annual holiday celebration A Very Merry Punxmas at The Bowery Electric on Saturday, December 16.

    A Very Merry Punxmas will feature sets from Todd Morse, The Lucky, Just Happy To Be Here, Triple Word Score, A New Violet and Cult Classic, with more special guests and surprise announcements to follow in the coming weeks. The artists include a versatile roster from alternative, rock, punk, and metal producing a unique curated lineup, highlighting bands known for their dynamic performances, raw talent and unapologetic realness.

    Manic Kat Records encourages a thriving hub for emerging talent fueling the underground scene, pushing artists to new heights and authenticity in music, keeping the punk spirit ignited.

    This years event is presented by NYC staple, 7 Crown, along with Glass Fun, the first platform that helps you earn exclusive rewards and experiences from your favorite brands and Boston America, manufacturer/distributor of creative and fun products to the gift and novelty market. The doors for the long awaited holiday performance open at 5:30pm with the final act wrapping up at 11pm, followed by the exclusive after party for VIP guests.

    “We love our local scene, but we felt this year to better accommodate the talent coming in from all over the country, it would be easier to hold the event at the crossroads of the world, New York City.”

    – Founder/CEO of Manic Kat Records, Peter James

    The annual holiday festivities tradition will be breaking down traditional expectations for holiday music at The Bowery Electric. This December, come feel the energy of mean, green punk-rock revival for yourself and don’t miss out on this unforgettable show. For more information please visit here.

  • Hip Hop Supergroup Czarface Release New Album ‘Czartificial Intelligence’

    Hip hop purists can rejoice as Czarface, one the genre’s most creative outfits, returns with Czartifical Intelligence. This hip hop supergroup, consisting of Wu Tang Clan’s Inspectah Deck and Boston underground hip hop acts Esoteric and 7L, bring fans along on an abstract journey where cosmic hip hop, boom bap and comic book culture all intersect. Since their debut in 2013, the like-minded outfit has seen their “Czarface” centered music-verse expand beyond their wildest dreams.

    Czarface press photo
    Czarface. From left to right (Esoteric, 7L, Inpectah Deck). Photo by Billy X.

    In fact, collaborations with other colorful and imaginative MC’s the likes of MF Doom, Ghostface Killah, Roc Marciano, Conway the Machine, Mayhem Lauren, Method ManAction Bronson, Vinnie Paz, Frankie Pulitzer and GZA have earned the group and series a cult-following. Chiefly, through intricate verses and captivating production, Czar and their guests — who accompany Czarface on missions and side-quests — have created a fruitful series of tapes with hundreds of merch drops including limited edition comics, apparel, action figures, art, shoes, and more featuring artwork illustrated by Lamour Supreme. Additionally, the group contributed the songs “Good Guys, Bad Guys” and “Today’s Special” to the soundtrack for the Marvel movie, Venom: Let There Be Carnage.

    Czarface album cover.
    The album cover for Czarface’s latest project “Czartificial Intelligence”

    Czartificial Intelligence

    The new album comes equipped with chaos, order and everything in between. It’s like a swirling vortex of cosmic carnage, but we bring it down to earth in places. We are, after all, in a new era. I hope what we made resonates with the people.

    – Esoteric

    The new album consists of 10- track and continues Czarface’s exploration of various themes along with similarly cutting-edge and technically proficient bars. Czartificial Intelligence features Logic, Kool Keith, Nems, Frankie Pulitzer and is set for release on December 1.

  • AJR Releases “The Maybe Man” at Irving Plaza

    In an exhilarating double-header on November 12th, the vibrant pop trio AJR surprised their New York City fanbase with an extraordinary day of music. The city that shaped their artistic journey witnessed a surprise daytime performance at Madison Square Park, paving the way for an epic night at Irving Plaza to commemorate the release of their latest album, “The Maybe Man.”

    From the heart of Chelsea to the iconic Irving Plaza stage, the Met brothers, Adam, Jack, and Ryan, guided their audience through a musical odyssey, unveiling both the fresh creations from their new album and the cherished classics. The unexpected nature of these events added an extra layer of thrill, transforming an ordinary Friday into an extraordinary experience for fans who found themselves captivated by AJR’s distinctive soundscapes and infectious energy.

    Hailing from the bustling streets of Chelsea in New York City, AJR is a dynamic pop trio comprised of brothers Adam, Jack, and Ryan Met. Their musical journey began in the living room of their city apartment, where they cultivated a distinctive sound that defies easy categorization, blending pop, indie, and electronic elements. Influenced by the diverse energy of NYC, their breakout single “I’m Ready” showcased their knack for catchy hooks and innovative sampling.

    With hits like “Weak” and “Burn the House Down,” AJR has captivated a dedicated fanbase, exploring themes of self-discovery and modern life complexities through their music. Natives of Chelsea, the trio’s artistic DNA is deeply rooted in the city’s diversity and constant buzz, shaping their evolution into one of the most exciting and innovative acts in contemporary music. From the urban landscapes of Chelsea to the global stage, AJR’s journey reflects the enduring spirit of creativity inspired by the heartbeat of New York City.

    “The Maybe Man” stands as the latest sonic adventure from the chart-topping trio, AJR. Released on November 10, 2023, this marks their fifth studio album and a notable transition as it becomes the first under their newly inked deal with Mercury Records. The anticipation for the album began to build during their 2022 world tour, where the sneak peek of the unreleased track “I Won’t” served as the catalyst. Fans eagerly speculated on the album’s title, unraveling the mystery on November 12, 2022, as “TMM” was revealed, prompting imaginative guesses like “The Music Men” and “Ten Meter Men.”

    Building up to the release, the band strategically dropped singles, including the emotionally charged “God Is Really Real,” a poignant tribute to their father, Gary. The animated teaser video released on August 28, 2023, featuring Jack Met’s journey through various landscapes, culminated in the revelation of the album’s title track, “Maybe Man.” The tour announcement on November 8, which includes 2 shows at Madison Square Garden in April 2024, further underscores the grandeur surrounding this remarkable album release, inviting fans to immerse themselves in the magic of AJR’s musical universe.

    The Irving Plaza show itself was a rollercoaster of emotions, pranks, and heartwarming moments that left fans buzzing with excitement. Jack kicked things off with a resolution to be more positive towards Ryan during this album cycle, but true to form, couldn’t resist poking fun at him after the first song, “Maybe Man”. Ryan, on the other hand, shared a humorous anecdote about a dozing-off 10 year old fan during “100 Bad Days,” emphasizing the cyclical enthusiasm whenever eye contact was made.

    The band playfully teased the young fan chasing Ryan’s approval and pretended to entertain on fan song requests like “Thirsty” and an impromptu tattoo-drawing session. Jack continued the brotherly teasing, asserting that a young fan was seeking Ryan’s approval, deeming it underrated. Fan interactions included an acapella rendition of “Thirsty” by their photographer Austin, responding to a fan’s sign, and collaboratively drawing a fan’s next tattoo, with Jack humorously criticizing Adam’s addition.

    “Steve’s Going to London” became a heartwarming sing-along, and the brothers shared a poignant moment, expressing gratitude for their late father, Gary, whose favorite thing surpassed even pastrami sandwiches (#2) and his sons (#3) — the fans. A Gary chant echoed through the crowd, and Jack revealed their dad heard the new album before his passing.

    Drumming up nostalgia, Jack joined in on the drums for “Don’t Throw Out My Legos,” and a production breakdown preceded the track. “Inertia” got its inspiration from a friend’s inertia-laden job at a bank, adding a humorous touch to the performance. The show concluded with a faux farewell, leading into the encore with “Weak” and “2085,” leaving the audience on a high note and cementing AJR’s reputation for unforgettable live performances.

    In tandem with the recent album promotion, AJR is making a stop at Rough Trade Records in NYC for an in-store record signing for “The Maybe Man”.

    Be sure to also catch the band on their first arena tour this spring when they bring their incredible energy to the stage at Madison Square Garden!

    Setlist: Maybe Man, Touchy Feely Fool, Burn the House Down, Sober Up, Yes I’m a Mess, The Dumb Song, 100 Bad Days, DJ is Crying for Help, World’s Smallest Violin, I Won’t, The Good Part, Inertia, Don’t Throw Out My Legos, Steve’s Going to London, Bang
    Encore: 2085, Weak

  • Benny The Butcher Snags Lil Wayne Feature With New Album On The Way

    Benny The Butcher has graced fans with a prolific new single from his forthcoming album, Everybody Can’t Go. Featuring the legendary Lil Wayne, Big Dog is the first new music from Benny since 2022’s Tana Talk 4 broke inside the Top 25 on the Billboard 200 album chart last year, and notably his first release for Def Jam Recordings, who he signed with after his contractual obligations to his cousin Westside Gunn’s Griselda imprint ended.

    Cover art for the new Benny The Butcher single "Big Dog."

    Co-produced by famed hip hop producer, Alchemist, “Big Dog” sees Benny The Butcher try his hand at another lyrical back-and-forth with a platinum selling rapper. His last effort, Johnny P’s Caddy — featuring J. Cole — peaked #14 Hot Rap Songs hit. Moreover, it was Benny’s first single to break inside the Hot 100. Furthermore, the Buffalo native was able to earn his first gold record and the first for any Griselda affiliate.

    “Big Dog”

    The new single is a change of pace for Benny The Butcher as the sped-up production departs from his usual laid-back, soulful, or sample heavy beats. What remains the same is his fervor, as he perfects his aggressive, braggadocios, grimy style. Backing him up is a looping classically inspired beat full of urgency. In like manner, Benny attacks the beat with the same intensity as if he was rapping about bricks on the table over a Daringer beat. Rather, Benny follows a formulaic song structure. While his subject matter remains close to home, the production and flow is a nice change of pace. Likewise, Lil Wayne continues to prove that he remains a rapper to be reckoned with, delivering a prolific verse in his own right in the duo’s first collaboration since “Timeless” from Benny’s 2020 album, Burden of Proof.

    Over the last year, Benny has spent time promoting his Black Soprano Family artists including Fuego Base and Rick Hyde. However, the first quarter of 2024 will see Benny release his new album, Everybody Can’t Go.