On Sunday, October 13, Marcus King took the stage at Brooklyn Paramount, delivering a solid performance that highlighted his powerful vocals and guitar work.
With his new album Blood Orange recently released, the show was a blend of older fan favorites and fresh material, showcasing King’s mix of blues, rock, and Southern soul.
Backed by a talented band, King was joined by Jack Ryan on drums, Drew Smithers on guitar, Mike Runyon on keys, and Eric Vogel on bass, all of whom contributed to the full, rich sound of the night. Kicking off with “The Well,” King set a steady pace. His voice carried depth, particularly on tracks like “Hero” and “Beautiful Stranger,” while “Goodbye Carolina” brought a bluesy vibe that resonated with the crowd. Songs from Blood Orange reflected a more refined sound, thanks in part to Rick Rubin’s stripped-back production, which allowed King’s musicianship and storytelling to come through clearly.
One of the highlights of the evening was a cover of “Me and Bobby McGee,” where King invited opener Brittany Spencer and 18-year-old guitarist Grace Bowers to join him on stage. Their performance of the classic song was a nice change of pace, and the blend of voices and guitar added a fresh layer to the song.
Brittany Spencer opened the night with a strong set of her own, performing tracks like “Night In,” “If You Say So,” “Bigger Than The Song,” and “My First Rodeo.” Spencer’s voice was clear and powerful, and she kept the audience engaged with her mix of country and soul influences. Over the years, she’s shared stages with artists like Willie Nelson and Jason Isbell, and her reputation as an up-and-coming artist continues to grow.
For the encore, King returned with a soulful rendition of “When a Man Loves a Woman,” followed by a cover of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs.” Grace Bowers joined him again for the latter, adding a punch to the performance with her impressive guitar skills.
Overall, Marcus King’s show at Brooklyn Paramount was a solid mix of blues, rock, and heartfelt performances. The new material from Blood Orange stood out, marking a step forward in King’s evolving sound, while the mix of covers, collaborations, and a talented backing band made the night memorable for fans.
Setlist: The Well, Hero, Inglewood Hotel, Beautiful Stranger, Honky Tonk Hell, Die Alone, Bipolar Love, Goodbye Carolina, F*** Up My Life Again, Lie, Lie Lie, Me and Bobby McGee, Delilah, Wildflowers & Wine
On Sunday, September 22, Forest Hills Stadium in Queens was transformed into a musical time capsule, as the Marley Brothers united for the first time in two decades to celebrate the enduring legacy of their father, Bob Marley.
The Marley Brothers Legacy Tour, which kicked off in Vancouver, brought together Damian, Stephen, Julian, Ziggy, and Ky-Mani Marley for an epic 22-date journey across North America, paying tribute to their father’s timeless work. The tour, which ends in early October in Miami, features a nostalgic setlist of nearly 30 of Bob Marley’s most cherished songs, bringing generations of fans together to rejoice in the spirit of reggae music.
A Family United by Music
The significance of this tour cannot be overstated. Though each of the Marley brothers has had successful solo careers, it has been 20 years since the five have shared a stage. Bob Marley’s influence, both on reggae and on global consciousness, is unparalleled, and the brothers’ reunion not only honors their father but also the rich musical heritage he helped to create. Performing together, their synergy is unmistakable, and their collective energy invokes memories of Marley’s original performances while breathing new life into the music.
The Show: A Journey Through Bob Marley’s Greatest Hits
The Forest Hills Stadium show, one of the highlights of the tour, featured an electric atmosphere, with the Marleys delivering a setlist packed with classics. From revolutionary anthems like “Get Up, Stand Up” and “Buffalo Soldier” to love ballads like “Is This Love,” the brothers brought Bob’s music to life, reviving both the message and the passion that defined his career.
The crowd erupted during timeless hits such as “Three Little Birds,” “Iron Lion Zion” and “Positive Vibration” singing along in unison, while more politically charged songs like “War” and “Exodus” reminded the audience of the power of music as a vehicle for social change. Damian, known for his harder-edged, dancehall-inspired sound, added a modern twist to the night with fiery performances while Ziggy’s soulful voice channeled the spirit of his father throughout. The setlist for the tour has been consistent with nearly 30 songs, a true testament to the power and breadth of Bob Marley’s work.
Honoring a Legend: The Life of Bob Marley
Bob Marley was born on February 6, 1945, in Nine Mile, Jamaica. Rising from humble beginnings, Marley became the voice of reggae and a symbol of resistance and hope for millions around the world. He started his musical career in the early 1960s with The Wailers, along with Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer. The group became known for their unique fusion of ska, rocksteady, and reggae.
Marley’s music was more than entertainment; it was a message. Songs like “Get Up, Stand Up,” “One Love,” and “Redemption Song” became anthems for unity, resistance, and peace. His blend of spirituality, activism, and culture resonated far beyond the Caribbean, elevating reggae to international acclaim. Tragically, Marley passed away from cancer in 1981 at the age of 36, but his legacy has continued through his children, who have carried on his mission and music.
A Night of Unity and Celebration
The Marley Brothers Legacy Tour is more than just a reunion; it’s a celebration of Bob Marley’s profound influence and a reminder of the unifying power of music. At Forest Hills Stadium, the brothers’ performance felt like a historic moment, one that bridged the past and the present. With each song, they brought their father’s message to new ears while giving long-time fans the opportunity to experience Marley’s magic once again.
As the tour continues across the country, fans from all walks of life will have the chance to partake in this once-in-a-generation experience. Bob Marley’s legacy lives on through his music, and through his sons, who have proven that the message of love, peace, and unity is more relevant now than ever.
Whether in Vancouver, New York, or Miami, the Marley Brothers Legacy Tour is a testament to the enduring power of Bob Marley’s music—and to the familial bond that keeps that legacy alive for generations to come.
Setlist: Natural Mystic, Get Up, Stand Up, So Much Trouble in the World, Coming in From the Cold, Positive Vibration, The Heathen, Concrete Jungle, Wake Up and Live, Shalom Salaam, War/No More Trouble, Running Away/Crazy Baldhead, Three Little Birds, Is This Love, Don’t Rock My Boat, Buffalo Soldier, Jammin, Easy Skanking, Boom Draw, New Heights, Medication, Kaya, Iron Lion Zion, Exodus, Could You Be Loved, One Love
On September 24th, the iconic Dropkick Murphys kicked off their highly anticipated fall tour with a powerful and energetic performance at the Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York City.
Supported by Pennywise and The Scratch, this show marked the first of many tour dates across North America, with stops in cities like Philadelphia, Detroit, Las Vegas, and even Canadian dates in Vancouver, Calgary, and Winnipeg. The tour is set to conclude in their home state of Massachusetts on October 27th before the band heads overseas for a 2025 leg that includes shows in Germany, the UK, and Austria.
The night started with Dublin-based The Scratch, whose unique blend of Irish traditional music and heavy metal got the crowd moving early. The three-piece band, who first made waves with their 2020 debut album Couldn’t Give a Rats, followed up with their 2023 release Mind Yourself, which has further solidified their growing fanbase. Their high-energy set was the perfect introduction to the night’s punk-centric lineup.
Next up was punk rock legends Pennywise, whose veteran presence brought the crowd’s energy to another level. Kicking off their set with “My Own Country” and “Every Single Day,” Pennywise proved why they’ve remained a staple in the punk rock scene for decades. With Fletcher Dragge on guitar, Byron McMackin on drums, Jim Lindberg on vocals, and Randy Bradbury on bass, they delivered a blistering set that included classics like “Date with Destiny,” a cover of The Ramones’ “Blitzkrieg Bop,” “Society,” and closed with their fan-favorite anthem “Bro Hymn.”
When Dropkick Murphys took the stage, it was clear the crowd was there to celebrate one of Boston’s most beloved bands. Since their formation in 1996, the Dropkick Murphys have carved out a unique space in the music world, blending traditional Irish instrumentation with punk rock energy. Over the years, they’ve become synonymous with anthemic singalongs and songs that reflect working-class pride, rebellion, and community spirit.
Ken Casey, the band’s frontman, may have been wearing a boot due to a torn Achilles, but that didn’t slow the band down one bit. The energy radiating from the stage was electric, and Casey, along with Tim Brennan (guitar, tin whistle, accordion), Jeff DaRosa (guitar, banjo, mandolin), Matt Kelly (drums), James Lynch (guitar), and Kevin Rheault (bass), gave a performance that had the entire rooftop shaking. Opening with “Barroom Hero” and “Boys on the Docks,” they ripped through a setlist packed with fan favorites, including “The State of Massachusetts,” “Surrender,” “Forever,” and the socially charged “Which Side Are You On?”
The band also played their new song, “Sirens,” a politically charged anthem addressing the growing divide in America. With lyrics that take aim at the billionaires profiting from societal division, Ken Casey delivered a fiery message:“For nearly a decade, the division between red and blue, right and left, has grown deeper, darker and uglier — dividing families and ending friendships. Nobody enjoys this more than the billionaires, who are making record profits off the blood, sweat, and tears of the working class. They love it when we fight amongst ourselves because their biggest fear is us joining together to come after them… THE REAL ENEMY.”
The night ended with a three-song encore that brought the house down. The crowd roared along to “Rose Tattoo,” “Worker’s Song,” and the band’s signature anthem, “I’m Shipping Up to Boston,” a fitting conclusion to a night of celebration, energy, and defiance.
With more than two decades under their belt, Dropkick Murphys have solidified themselves as legends of Celtic punk, known for their intense live performances and deep connection with their fanbase. Despite the absence of co-lead vocalist Al Barr, who took a leave of absence in 2022 to care for his ailing mother, Ken Casey has taken over full lead vocal duties, and the band hasn’t missed a beat. Barr’s return remains uncertain as he continues to focus on family, but fans hold hope for his eventual comeback.
As Dropkick Murphys power through their fall tour, their message remains as strong as ever: unity, pride, and standing up for what’s right. With the release of “Sirens” and plans for an expansive 2025 tour, the Murphys are showing no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re catching them stateside or overseas next year, one thing’s for sure—Dropkick Murphys will continue to bring their unmistakable energy and passion to stages worldwide.
Pennywise Setlist: My Own Country, Every Single Day, Staright Ahead, Same Old Story, Date With Destiny, Fuck Authority, Blitzkrieg Bop, Pennywise, Society, Broken, Stand By Me, Bro Hymn
Dropkick Murphys Setlist: Barroom Hero, Boys on the Docks, The State of Massachusetts, The Boys Are Back, The Spicy McHaggis Jig, Surrender, The Gauntlet, The Fields of Athenry, Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ya, Sirens, Smash Shit Up, Forever, Captain Kelly’s Kitchen, My Hero, Caps and Bottles, Which Side Are You On, The Hardest Mile, Good As Gold, Bastards on Parade, The Irish Rover, Until Next Time, Rose Tattoo, Workers Song, I’m Shipping Up to Boston
Janeâs Addiction has officially canceled the remainder of their tour with Love and Rockets following a string of incidents involving frontman Perry Farrell. Tensions within the band became evident during their September 10th performance at The Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York City, where Farrell appeared incoherent on stage, leading to an underwhelming show.
This came just days before a public altercation between Farrell and guitarist Dave Navarro during a concert in Boston, where Farrell lashed out, escalating tensions.
Jane’s Addiction at Pier 17 9/10/24
Love and Rockets, who had been opening for Janeâs Addiction on this tour, brought their own legacy to the stage with their unique blend of gothic rock and alternative sound. Fans were excited to see the iconic band reunite after years of absence, and their performances were well-received throughout the tour. However, the tension within Janeâs Addiction cast a shadow over the shows. While Love and Rockets delivered solid sets, the unpredictability surrounding Janeâs Addictionâs headlining performances often left audiences uncertain about the night’s outcome.
With the tour now canceled, Love and Rocketsâ involvement has come to an abrupt end as well, disappointing fans who were eager to see both bands share the stage.
Love and Rockets Pier 17 9/10/24
The band announced their decision on Monday via Instagram, stating they were taking time away due to Farrellâs ongoing struggles with mental health. Navarro, along with drummer Stephen Perkins and bassist Eric Avery, also issued a joint statement citing concerns for Farrellâs well-being and the safety of the entire band. Their message expressed regret over the cancellation but emphasized the need to prioritize safety and ensure a stable environment for future performances. The tour, which was set to run through October, was cut short, leaving fans disappointed but understanding of the difficult situation.
Perry Farrell Pier 17 9/10/24
Farrell later issued an apology to the band and fans, acknowledging his behavior during the Boston incident and taking full responsibility for his actions. He expressed regret over reaching a “breaking point” and the impact it had on those around him. Despite hopes that the band would return to the stage soon, no further tour dates have been announced, and refunds for the canceled shows are being offered to fans.
Dave Navarro Pier 17 9/10/24
This sudden breakdown has cast a shadow over what was expected to be a high-energy tour, leaving the future of Janeâs Addiction unclear. Fans are left wondering what lies ahead for the band as they face these internal challenges.
Jane’s Addiction Setlist: Kettle Whistle, Whores, Pigs in Zen, Ain’t No Right, Ted, Just Admit It, Summertime Rolls, Jame Says, Then She Did, Mountain Song, Three Days, Ocean Size, Stop, Chip Away
Love and Rockets Setlist: The Light, Kundalini Express, No Big Deal, The Dog End of a Day Gone By, Haunted When the Minutes Drag, No New Tale to Tell, An American Dream, So Alive, Ball of Confusion, Mirror People, Yin and Yang
On Saturday, September 7, the PNC Bank Arts Center in New Jersey was treated to a powerhouse lineup of rock and industrial legends, featuring Filter, Ministry, Alice Cooper, and Rob Zombie. The diverse crowd, a mix of metalheads, goths, and rockers, gathered for a night of electrifying performances, each act bringing its signature style and energy to the stage.
Filter Opens with Grunge-Industrial Anthems
Filter kicked off the evening, setting the tone with their grunge-tinged industrial sound. Opening with “You Walk Away,” the band immediately captured the crowd’s attention. Their setlist included fan-favorite hits like “Take My Picture” and the iconic “Hey Man, Nice Shot,” which sent waves of nostalgia through the audience. Richard Patrick’s intense vocals and the band’s tight instrumentation delivered a strong start, with plenty of sing-alongs and headbanging from the early crowd.
Ministry took the stage next, delivering a relentless barrage of industrial metal. Al Jourgensen and company wasted no time diving into their gritty catalog with tracks like “Stigmata,” “Just One Fix,” and the iconic “Jesus Built My Hotrod.” The band’s machine-like precision and pounding beats had the crowd entranced, while Jourgensen’s snarling vocals added an extra layer of chaos to the performance. With their dark, aggressive sound and pulsating light show, Ministry left a lasting impact, keeping the energy at a fever pitch for the next act.
Alice Cooper’s Theatrical Horror Show Steals the Spotlight
The legendary Alice Cooper, at 76 years old, proved he’s still the undisputed king of shock rock. Entering the stage through a massive “Banned in New Jersey” newspaper, Cooper launched into “Lock Me Up,” immediately immersing the crowd in his signature blend of rock and theatrical horror. Backed by a stellar band, Cooper’s set was filled with classic hits like “No More Mr. Nice Guy,” “I’m Eighteen,” and “Poison,” each song complemented by a dizzying array of visual spectacles.
From impaling a paparazzo to draping a boa constrictor around his neck and battling a Jason Voorhees-style monster, Cooper’s showmanship was on full display. The crowd was particularly captivated by “The Ballad of Dwight Fry,” where Cooper, in a straitjacket, met a chilling end at the guillotine – only to return for an explosive rendition of “School’s Out” to close out his set. His energy, despite his age, was awe-inspiring, leaving fans thrilled and cheering for more.
Rob Zombie’s Horror Extravaganza Caps Off the Night
Rob Zombie closed out the night with his high-octane, horror-infused set. Bursting onto the stage with “Demon Speeding” Zombie’s performance was a technicolor feast for the eyes, featuring scenes from his horror films and retro visual effects flashing behind him. The crowd was treated to a wild ride through Zombie’s discography with songs like “Living Dead Girl” and “Superbeast.”
Though longtime guitarist John 5 was absent, having joined Mötley Crüe, Zombie’s current lineup – Mike Riggs on guitar, Rob “Blasko” Nicholson on bass, and Ginger Fish on drums – delivered a blistering performance that kept the energy sky-high. Zombie’s stage presence, with his high kicks and dramatic flair, kept the crowd engaged, dancing, and screaming for more until the very end.
Rob Zombie Setlist: Demon Speeding, Super Charger-Heaven, Feel So Numb, Well, Everybody’s Fucking In A UFO, What Lurks on Channel X?, Superbeast, The Lords of Salem, Dead City Radio and the New Gods of Supertown, The Triumph of King Freak, Drum Solo, The Satanic Rites of Blacula, More Human Than Human, Living Dead Girl, Thunder Kiss ’65, Dragula
Alice Cooper Setlist: Lock Me Up, No More Mr Nice Guy, I’m Eighteen, Under My Wheels, Billion Dollar Babies, Hey Stoopid, He’s Back, Snakebite, Feed My Frankenstein, Poison, Guitar Solo, Black Widow Jam, Ballad of Dwight Fry, Killer/I Love the Dead, Elected, Schools Out
The Second Peace and Unity Festival, held at Snug Harbor on Staten Island, was a celebration of community, culture, and music. Hosted by the K Woods Foundation, this event brought together a diverse lineup of performers, both established and emerging, to uplift and engage the community.
Kareem “Kay” Woods and Method Man
Founded by Kareem âKayâ Woods, the K Woods Foundation is a Staten Island-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting underprivileged communities with a particular focus on youth development, education, and community engagement. Through events like this festival, mentorship programs, and educational initiatives, the foundation aims to empower young people and foster a positive impact on Staten Island and beyond. Their collaborations with local schools, community centers, and other organizations play a crucial role in this mission.
This year’s “Peace and Unity Festival” also partnered with POLARIS, a Black-owned television network, to launch a 2024 voter registration drive that successfully registered many attendees. POLARIS worked directly with Kay Woods to raise awareness around voter registration, tying this crucial initiative to the cultural significance of the hip-hop festival. POLARIS will continue voter registration activations over the next two months and plans to host a celebrity roundtable discussion as part of their efforts to engage the community in the electoral process.
Smif-N-Wessun
The festival featured a mix of local talent and established artists, creating an electric atmosphere that united the community in celebration. Among the performers were local acts such as Cosi PARI, Heff, JoJo Pellegrino, Who is Bravi, Waterteam Stumik Dezeagle, Yap City, and Smiff N Wess. Their performances showcased the rich musical diversity and talent within Staten Island.
Ghostface
The highlight of the festival came toward the end of the event with a series of unforgettable performances by some of hip-hop’s most legendary figures. Method Man, who had made a special appearance earlier in the day, returned to the stage alongside Ghostface, Raekwon, Cappadonna, and Sheek Louch, delivering a powerful set that captivated the audience. Beanie Sigel and Freeway kept the momentum going with their dynamic performance, setting the stage for the festival’s finale. Closing out the night, Jim Jones, Juelz Santana, and Freekey Zekey took the energy to its peak, leaving the crowd buzzing with excitement.
Beanie Sigel & Freeway
The 2nd Peace and Unity Festival was more than just a music event; it was a testament to the strength and resilience of the Staten Island community. By bringing people together through music and culture, the K Woods Foundation continues to make a lasting impact, fostering a spirit of unity and empowerment that will carry on long after the festival’s final note.
On Saturday, August 24th, the LIMEHOF celebrated the induction of three iconic DJs: Davy DMX, DJ Hurricane, and DJ Jazzy Jay. The event was a tribute to their contributions to hip-hop and the music industry, filled with heartfelt speeches, special performances, and an outpouring of admiration from peers and fans alike.
Davy DMX, Kurtis Blow and DJ Hurricane at the LIMEHOF
Before the induction ceremony, I had the opportunity to ask them a few questions about their careers and perspectives on hip-hop. Kurtis Blow, who was present to induct Davy DMX, also shared his thoughts.
DJ Hurricane, known for his pivotal role in shaping the Beastie Boys’ sound, reflected on his contributions. He described his style as “b-boyish” and “hip-hop,” explaining that he brought a swag and attitude that complemented the group, especially since MCA was the only member from Brooklyn. Hurricane reminisced about the early days, recalling their first meeting at the Def Jam office, although it felt like they had known each other forever. He also discussed the evolution of hip-hop, pointing out that today’s shorter verses and lack of recognition for DJs mark a significant shift from the past.
Kurtis Blow at LIMEHOF
Kurtis Blow, one of hip-hop’s pioneers, expressed his love for the genre, which has been his life for the past 50 years. He encouraged young artists to stay positive and continue to inspire change, emphasizing the importance of returning to hip-hop’s roots of peace, unity, love, and fun. His message was one of hope, urging the new generation to use hip-hop as a tool for global change.
Davy DMX, reflecting on his role as a DJ and producer, stressed the importance of keeping the art of scratching alive. He acknowledged the incredible heights that DJing has reached but emphasized that DJs must remain a central part of hip-hop culture.
DJ Johnny Juice at LIMEHOF
The night kicked off with DJ Johnny Juice taking the stage alongside the honorees, showcasing the skills that have made him a respected figure in the DJ community. Although DJ Jazzy Jay couldn’t attend due to a personal emergency, DJ Johnny Juice graciously accepted the award on his behalf, honoring the legacy of the pioneering DJ.
Davy DMX and Kurtis Blow at LIMEHOF
One of the highlights of the evening was Kurtis Blow’s appearance to induct his longtime friend and collaborator, Davy DMX. In his speech, Kurtis Blow delivered a heartfelt tribute, reminiscing about their early days in Hollis, Queens, and their unforgettable performances, including a legendary night at the Apollo. He credited Davy DMX as a crucial part of his success, particularly for stepping in as his DJ on tour after Run-DMCâs Joey broke his arm. Kurtis praised Daveyâs skills on the turntables and expressed deep gratitude for his unwavering support throughout their global travels. The speech culminated in a powerful moment as Kurtis Blow performed his classic hit, “The Breaks,” to the delight of the audience.
DJ Hurricane and Wife Dawn at LIMEHOF
DJ Hurricane’s induction was equally touching, with his wife, Dawn, taking the stage to honor her husband. She spoke passionately about his impressive career, which began in 1977 and saw him collaborate with legends like Run-DMC, The Beastie Boys, and Davy DMX. Dawn highlighted the challenges Hurricane faced, particularly as a DJ for an all-white group during the early days of hip-hop, and expressed her admiration for his resilience and contributions to the genre. Her words resonated with the crowd, underscoring the impact Hurricane has had on hip-hop culture.
The evening was a powerful reminder of the lasting influence of these legendary DJs, who have shaped the sound and spirit of hip-hop for decades. The LIMEHOF induction ceremony was not only a celebration of their achievements but also a recognition of their contributions to the music world and beyond).
Continuing his Soho Sessions residency, Grammy-nominated singer and guitarist Marcus King returned to the iconic Stephen Talkhouse in Amagansett for a special performance on August 21. Known for his soulful voice and electrifying guitar work, King brought his unique blend of blues, rock, and southern soul to an intimate audience, making the night unforgettable.
Marcus King at Stephen Talkhouse
The Soho Sessions, a premier music-driven community, has built a reputation for curating extraordinary live music experiences in both New York City and the Hamptons. What makes these sessions stand out is not just the incredible music but the cause behind them. More than just a good time, these performances support organizations such as God’s Love We Deliver, a distinguished charity dedicated to providing nutritious, medically tailored meals to individuals too sick to shop or cook for themselves.
Before the show, I had the opportunity to speak with Greg Williamson and Nicole Rechter, the co-founders of Love Rocks. They shared their passion for combining music with philanthropy, explaining that while Love Rocks, their annual benefit concert at the Beacon Theatre, is a major event, Soho Sessions allow for more frequent, intimate performances. These sessions, often featuring notable artists like Gary Clark Jr. and Warren Haynes, bring the music closer to the fans while continuing to support important causes like God’s Love We Deliver.
Greg Williamson, Nicole Rechter and Stephen Covello
Stephen Covello, Chief Philanthropy Officer at God’s Love We Deliver, provided deeper insight into the organization’s mission. Founded in 1985 by Gonga Stone, God’s Love We Deliver began as a response to the AIDS crisis, providing meals to those too ill to cook. Today, the organization has expanded its reach, delivering medically tailored meals to individuals with over 210 different diagnoses, including cancer, Alzheimer’s, and HIV/AIDS. As they approach their 40th anniversary, God’s Love We Deliver has delivered 4.3 million meals, a testament to their impact and commitment.
Marcus King
Marcus King’s performance at Stephen Talkhouse was nothing short of spectacular. He delivered soulful renditions of his songs like “Wildflowers and Wine” and “Hero,” as well as crowd-pleasing covers of classics like “The Weight” and “Can’t You See.” Marcus King was joined by his drummer, Jack Ryan, a key member of the Marcus King Band, who brought his signature groove to the performance and Eric Folder on bass.
The night was a perfect blend of music, community, and charity, highlighting the power of live music to bring people together for a greater cause. As Marcus King continues his Soho Sessions residency, it’s clear that these performances are about more than just entertainmentâthey’re about making a difference.
Setlist: It’s Too Late, Scuttle Buttin, Rolling & Tumblin, Sins A Good Man’s Brother, Aim High, Hero, One Day She’s Here, Killing Floor, Pain, Save Me, Always, Manic Depression, Fallin For The Devil, Lie, Lie, Lie, Wildflowers & Wine, The Weight, Can’t You See
The K Woods Foundation is excited to announce the return of the highly anticipated second edition of the ‘Peace & Unity Festival,’ a pride and unity festival in Staten Island on Saturday, August, 31, from 1 PM to 8 PM.
The event this year will be held at the stunning SnugHarbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden and will feature performances by Jim Jones, Julez Santana, Smiff N Wessun, Beanie Sigel, Freeway, Connie Diamond, Abby Jasmine, Chey, Freekey Zekey and more, in addition to a special by Ghostface Killah & Friends. Hosted by Rayyy Rayy, this yearly festival seeks to unite the Staten Island community for yet another remarkable experience of harmony and unity, building on the success of its first year.
Kareem “Kay” Woods established the K Woods Foundation to empower young people in the Park Hill neighborhood of Staten Island and beyond. The foundation offers tools and chances for youth to grow, learn, and achieve through various projects and programs. The organization is leaving a lasting impression on the lives of innumerable people by constructing new leisure areas and organizing neighborhood gatherings like the Peace & Unity Festival.
“I’m so proud to see the youth in my neighborhood finally get what they deserve. A nice, clean, safe space to play and enjoy their childhood. I am so blessed to have grown up here and be in the position to come home and open up new possibilities for learning and growth for so many kids who don’t have the opportunities I did,” said Kareem “Kay” Woods, head of the K Woods Foundation, who has been proactive with several projects benefiting the youth of Park Hill this year including spearheading the groundbreaking of a new basketball court and playground.
Snug Harbor, one of Staten Island’s most famous locations, will host the Peace & Unity Festival. It offers the ideal setting for a day devoted to honoring the community and promoting unity. Family-friendly activities, local talent showcases, food vendors, and well-known performers’ live performances will all be at the event.
Creating Bridges and Honoring Community, Peace & Unity Festival celebrates a day of song, tradition, and unity.
For more information about the event, including the full schedule and artist lineup, please visit the K Woods Foundation’s official website at k-woodsfoundation.com. For updates, follow the K Woods Foundation on Instagram.
See NYS Music’s coverage of the first Peace and Unity Festival here.
Vicki Peterson, known for her role as the lead guitarist and vocalist of the iconic all-female rock band The Bangles, joined her husband, John Cowsill, drummer and vocalist for The Beach Boys, for a memorable performance at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame. Additionally, the duo’s show marked a poignant tribute to John’s late brothers, Bill and Barry Cowsill, with a selection of songs from their upcoming album, Long After the Fire. The project, which features songs written by Bill and Barry Cowsill, is set for release in early 2025.
Vicki Peterson: From Bangles to New Beginnings
Vicki Peterson’s journey in the music industry began with The Bangles in the early 1980s. Formed in Los Angeles, the band became one of the most successful female-led rock groups of the decade. Moreover, with hits like “Manic Monday,” “Walk Like an Egyptian,” and “Eternal Flame,” The Bangles carved out a significant place in the annals of pop and rock music. Peterson’s intricate guitar work and harmonious vocals were key elements in the band’s distinctive sound, which blended 1960s garage rock with the melodic sensibilities of the 1980s.
Following the band’s initial disbandment in 1989, Peterson pursued various musical projects, including working with the Continental Drifters and releasing solo material. However, the Bangles reunited in 1999, continuing to perform and record, allowing Peterson to revisit and expand upon the band’s musical legacy. Her collaboration with John Cowsill on Long After the Fire represents a new chapter in her career, blending her musical past with new inspirations and partnerships.
John Cowsill: Carrying the Legacy of The Beach Boys and The Cowsills
John Cowsill’s musical roots run deep. As a member of The Cowsills, a family band that rose to fame in the late 1960s, John was part of hits like “The Rain, The Park & Other Things” and “Hair.” Similarly. the Cowsills’ music was characterized by rich vocal harmonies and a pop sensibility that mirrored the era’s optimistic sound. In 2000, John joined The Beach Boys as their drummer and vocalist, a role he has embraced for the past 23 years. In addition, his dynamic performances have helped sustain the band’s legendary status in the music world.
A Heartfelt Tribute and Personal Insights
After their performance, I had the opportunity to speak with both Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill. Peterson shared insights into the couple’s evolving musical chemistry, noting that each night of their collaboration feels fresh and enjoyable. Her favorite track from their new project is a soulful song she sings, along with a timeless piece written by Barry Cowsill. She also highlighted the significant contributions of Paul Allen, a multi-instrumentalist from Nashville, who played various instruments and produced the album.
In my conversation with John Cowsill, he introduced their new project, Long After the Fire, a labor of love that has been in the works for the past few years. The project faced delays due to John’s commitments with The Beach Boys and Vicki’s touring schedule. Much of the recording took place at their home studio allowing the couple to work closely and intimately on the music.
John discussed the challenges they faced in navigating the modern music industry, such as understanding ISWC codes, ISNI numbers, and metadata management. He expressed concern that without these codes, they risk losing revenue from their music. The complexities of securing consistent publishing were also a hurdle, as companies can be bought or absorbed, changing the original agreements.
Looking Forward
As Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill prepare to release Long After the Fire in early 2025, their performance at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame offered a glimpse into a project that honors the legacy of John’s late brothers while showcasing the couple’s unique musical bond. Furthermore, their dedication to preserving the music of Bill and Barry Cowsill, combined with their passion for creating new sounds, promises to make this album a standout addition to their respective careers.
