Dance Party returns to Bryant Park for its 10th anniversary from May 1 to May 16. Each night will correspond to a different style of dance.
Dance Party events will take place every Wednesday and Thursday from May 1 to May 16. At each event, attendees meet at the iconic Bryant Park fountain to learn basic steps with expert instructors at 6pm. Afterwards, participants can test out their new moves to live music performed by a diverse selection of bands from 7pm-8:30pm.
The two week-long event sees over 10 different styles of dance for anybody to pick up and learn. A slew of talented individuals and groups makeup the festival’s lineup this year. This year’s series kicks off with New York City’s signature brand of Salsa and R&B served up by Uptown Royalty. Disco’s golden era is accentuated by The Disco Nights.
Other artists in the lineup include Judy Santos, Charles Turner & Uptown Swing, KD Browne, La Charanga Pacha and Jimmy Bosch Salsa Masters. Various different and diverse genres performed include salsa, disco, R&B, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Motown, Charanga, Cuban Salsa, and Cha Cha Cha.
For the last ten years, Bryant Park Dance Party has highlighted diverse cultures and traditions from around the globe and across the boroughs of New York City. More than 50,000 participants have danced on the Fountain Terrace and expert instructors have taught 32 different social dance styles ranging from Bhangra to Polka; Cumbia to Lindy Hop; Flamenco to Contra. After learning the dance steps, audiences immediately put those moves to use, dancing to live music from renowned bands.
Uptown Royalty
“Over the past ten years, Bryant Park Dance Party has grown to a new level, offering some of the most exciting, diverse, free entertainment in one of New York’s most beautiful settings. This year, we’re featuring a range of styles, both traditional and new, and the colorful lineup brings together so many different parts of the City. This series is so special to me because it brings so many New Yorkers together to dance and have the time of their lives.”
Talia Castro-Pozo Bryant, Park Dance Party Producer
For more information on the Dance Party festival at Bryant Park visit the parks website by clicking here.
Buddha Jams has announced the continuation of their Barefoot Concert Series, this time with special guest Laivy for an exclusive show on Long Island. The event is being held on April 18 at Buddha Jams Yoga in Glen Cove.
The show marks Laivy’s first headliner in Long Island, and his first in the New York area since last year. Laivy is the son of legendary reggae singer Matisyahu. Laivy sees the stage to perform his own acclaimed genre-transcending folk, reggae, and acoustic hits.
The Barefoot Concert Series continues at Buddha Jams Yoga in Glen Cove to bring strong soulful melodies to the community. The venue offers visitors an immersive experience designed to enlighten and fill your body, mind, and spirit with lasting positive energy and vibes.
Inspired by soulful artists who are relatable in their lyrics and sound, Laivy hopes to follow in their footsteps, those who can summon the common chord of a generation and unite them through song.
Buddha Jams Yoga and Event Center offers an event space complete with two stages, professional sound, along with a spiritual journey through yoga and music. Laivy sees the stage for this exclusive performance and hopes to draw in a crowd of fun-loving individuals of all ages.
Tickets are available now for $20 in advance, $25 day of show. Donât forget to bring your own water bottle. Get tickets at www.buddhajams.com.
After years of eager anticipation, the historic Brooklyn Paramount Theater reopened its doors to music enthusiasts on Wednesday, March 27, with a spectacular concert featuring reggae icons Damian and Stephen Marley. Part of their highly anticipated 2024 Traffic Jam Tour, the event delighted fans with a night of rhythm, melody, and cultural celebration.
A Brief History of the Brooklyn Paramount Theater
Originally opened in 1928, the Brooklyn Paramount Theater stood as a beacon of entertainment in the heart of New York City. With its stunning art deco architecture and state-of-the-art facilities, the theater quickly became a beloved landmark, hosting a plethora of performances ranging from live music acts to film screenings.
Like many historic theaters, the Brooklyn Paramount faced periods of decline and neglect over the years. By the late 1960s, it had ceased operations as a theater and was repurposed for various other uses, including a disco club and a basketball arena. Despite efforts to revive it, the theater remained largely dormant for decades, with its grandeur fading into memory.
The Renovation Project
In recent years, a dedicated group of preservationists and investors embarked on a mission to restore the Brooklyn Paramount Theater to its former glory. Drawing inspiration from its illustrious past, the renovation project aimed to breathe new life into the venue while preserving its historic charm.
Through meticulous restoration efforts guided by archival research and architectural expertise, the theater underwent a remarkable transformation. From refurbishing the ornate façade to upgrading its sound and lighting systems, no detail was spared in the quest to revive this cultural gem.
The Grand Reopening Concert
The reopening of the Brooklyn Paramount TheaterSetlist: was a momentous occasion, eagerly awaited by both locals and music enthusiasts from afar. And what better way to kick off this new chapter in the theater’s history than with a performance by two of reggae’s most influential figures?
Damian and Stephen Marley, sons of the legendary Bob Marley, graced the stage alongside their band, offering a mesmerizing display of their musical talent. Set against the backdrop of the newly renovated theater, the duo delighted the audience with a dynamic setlist.
The Music
Damian and Stephen Marley chose songs from their popular collection to create a setlist that pleased both longtime and new fans. They performed tunes about unity, love, and social justice, along with some catchy melodies. Some standout songs from the concert included”Welcome to Jamrock,” “Could You Be Loved,” “Exodus,” “Medication” “The Mission,” and “Rock Stone.” Each song transported the audience on a musical journey, infusing the Brooklyn Paramount Theater with the vibrant spirit of reggae and honoring the legacy of their famous father.
A Night to Remember
As the music ended and applause filled the air, it was obvious that the reopening concert at the Brooklyn Paramount Theatre was a big success. For those in attendance, it wasn’t merely a concert but rather a joyous celebration of culture, community, and the unifying power of music.
Damian and Stephen Marley – Brooklyn Paramount – Wednesday, March 27, 2024
Setlist: Big Youth – Intro, 10,000 Chariots, The Traffic Jam, So Much Trouble in the World, All Night, Pimpa’s Paradise, Still Searchin’, Tight Ship, It Was Written, Cast The First Stone, Jah Army, Medication, The Mission, Love and Inity / Punky Reggae Party, Jamming, Is This Love, Rock Stone, Road To Zion, Welcome to Jamrock, Exodus, Could You Be Loved
Tuesday nights are usually reserved for a simple McDonalds dinner after I sit through an hour of my daughter’s gymnastics class. This past Tuesday I decided to add the Mong Tong show at No Fun in Troy to the lineup of Tuesday’s to-do list. This turned out to be a welcome addition as I watched 2 men get on the stage, do a quick sound check, and then blindfold themselves before performing a very unique brand of Asian-infused Psychedelic sound.
Mong Tong is a 2 man instrumental group consisting of Taiwanese brothers Hom Yu and Jim Chi and are no strangers to the United States. They’ve performed multiple times in the South By Southwest festivals and have gathered a decent following. This particular appearance at NoFun is the 7th stop of their 9 location US tour with their 9th and final stop being at TV Eye in New York City on March 29th. This tour celebrates their new EP 銘 Epigraphy which dropped on March 8th.
Blindfolded musicians performing music is something everyone should see at least once in their lives. Dressed simply in black pants, white shirts, and red blindfolds, and using an arsenal of electric and electronic gear, the 2 brothers create intricate and complex arrangements that capture the essence of kung-fu movies mixed with punchy beats and well thought out melodies. Staccato guitar arpeggios dance over conga laden drum lines. Traditional Asian instruments and unidentifiable synth sounds mash together in a strange 70s Psychedelic rock jam. All accentuated by the smooth and groovy bass that anyone could get next to.
The duo takes you on a trip though soundscapes that vary from ethereal to hectic to confusing to serene and you’re not sure where its going next. The energy is positive and contagious and while some people are dancing, others are taking in the light show, and others are still amazed at the blindfolded-ness of it all, none are missing out on this one-of-a-kind experience.
With polyrhythmic beats and sampled and non-sampled traditional Chinese instruments it’s safe to say that Mong Tong has few competitors. Since I’m struggling to find a similar band to compare them to I’ll just say I’d classify Mong Tong as Psychedelic Asian Electro-Funk Trip-Hop with a dash of Techno. They’re continuing their tour of the US with shows at the Columbus Theater in Providence, RI on March 28th and at TV Eve in New York City on March 29th. Tuesday to-do lists aren’t the same any more.
Michael Franti and Spearhead || Photo Credit: Wayan Rodesh
The tour’s name, Togetherness, was birthed from Michael Franti’s idea that folks are simply not close enough to each other. Franti believes that we should connect with one another more often and feel that powerful togetherness.
Michael Franti and Spearhead will perform their funk, reggae, and jazz hits from April 6 through August 25. The tour will also include musical support from huge reggae artists like Stephen Marley and Trevor Hall. The show will consist of high-energy, uplifting and inspirational music for the spirit.
The tour will kick off April 6 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and wrap up in Santa Cruz, California. The tour will stop three times in New York – Kingston on June 20, Lafayette on June 22, and Pier 17+ on July 12. Franti and Spearhead’s music is all about the spreading of love and togetherness, which is the theme of this tour.
Pre-sales will begin February 7 at noon local time and general on-sale will begin Friday, February 9 at 10 a.m. local time at MichaelFranti.com. Newly added dates go on sale March 29 at 10 a.m. local time.
Michael Franti & Spearhead’s Togetherness Tour 2024 April 6 // Tortuga Music Festival // Ft. Lauderdale, FL April 10 // Soul Kitchen Music Hall^ // Mobile, AL April 12 // The Key West Amphitheater^ // Key West, FL April 13 // Florida Groves Music Festival // Orlando, FL April 28 // New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival // New Orleans, LA May 17 // Pure Imagination // Prescott, AZ May 24 // Los Colonias Park Amphitheater^ // Grand Junction, CO May 25 // Hipico^ // Santa Fe, NM May 26 // Durango Mesa Park^ // Durango, CO May 29 // Belly Up^ // Aspen, CO May 31 // Red Rocks Amphitheater$ // Morrison, CO June 1 // Chautauqua Auditorium // Boulder, CO June 3 // McGrath Amphitheatre*^ // Cedar Rapids, IA June 5 // EPIC Event Center*^ // Green Bay, WI June 6 // The Sylvee*^ // Madison, WI June 7 // Hilde Performance Center*^ // Plymouth, MN June 8 // KC Live!*^ // Kansas City, MO June 11 // Steelhouse*^ // Omaha, NE June 13 // Riverfront Live*^ // Cincinnati, OH June 14 // Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park*^ // Indianapolis, IN June 15 // Ravinia Festival+^ // Highland Park, IL June 16 // Evans Amphitheater*^ // Cleveland, OH June 18 // Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort*^ // Middlefield, CT June 19 // Summer Stage at Tree House Brew Co*^ // Deerfield, MA June 20 // Hutton Brickyards Retreat & Event Center*^ // Kingston, NY June 21 // Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course*^ // Grantville, PA June 22 // Beak and Skiff Apple Orchards*^ // Lafayette, NY June 23 // Maine Savings Amphitheater+^ // Bangor, ME June 25 // Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom+^ // Hampton Beach, NH June 26 // Freeman Arts Pavilion+^ // Selbyville, DE June 28 // Salvage Station+^ // Asheville, NC June 29 // Salvage Station#^ // Asheville, NC June 30 // Roanoke Island Festival Park#^ // Manteo, NC July 5 // Greenfield Lake Amphitheater^ // Wilmington, NC July 6 // Greenfield Lake Amphitheater^ // Wilmington, NC July 7 // Greenfield Lake Amphitheater^ // Wilmington, NC July 9 // The Chicken Box // Nantucket, MA July 10 // The Chicken Box // Nantucket, MA Aug. 25 // Mountain Sol Festival // Santa Cruz, CA
Newly Added Dates
July 2 // Coves Amphitheater^ // Union Hall, VA July 12 // Pier 17+ // New York, NY July 13 // Seaside Heights Beach Stage+ // Seaside Heights, NJ July 14 // Vibe Fest Presents Hearts and Hands at Ting Pavilion+ // Charlottesville, VA July 25 // The Sound%^ // Del Mar, CA July 26 // The Greek Theatre%^ // Los Angeles, CA July 27 // Pepsi Amphitheater%^ // Flagstaff, AZ July 31 // Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater at Deer Valley Resort%^ // Park City, UT Aug. 1 // Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater%^ // Nampa, ID Aug. 3 // Salmonfest // Ninilchik, AK Aug. 6 // Centennial Hall Convention Center // Juneau, AK Aug. 9 // Ironstone Amphitheatre@% // Murphys, CA Aug. 10 // Redding Civic Auditorium Outdoor Lawn%^ // Redding, CA Aug. 13 // Britt Pavilion%^ // Jacksonville, OR Aug. 14 // Hayden Homes Amphitheater%^ // Bend, OR Aug. 16 // McMenamins Edgefield Amphitheater%^ // Troutdale, OR Aug. 17 // BECU Live at Northern Quest%^ // Airway Heights, WA Aug. 18 // Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery%^ // Woodinville, WA Aug. 22 // Grand Theatre at The Grand Sierra Resort%^ // Reno, NV Aug. 23 // The Backyard%^ // Sacramento, CA Aug. 24 // Fox Theater%^ // Oakland, CA
Sitting on the corner of E. 29th Street and 2nd Avenue in Manhattan is a pub that has been home to Irish music legends both past and present. Take one step through the pub’s signature red door to be greeted by notes of the Irish whistle, guitar, bass, bodhrán, uilleann pipes, and drums. The music overflows from the stage and captivates one to the point where more Guinness has to be ordered, because you just can’t leave the authentic Irish music. The name of this pub that has been such a vital component of the New York City Irish music community is none other than Paddy Reilly’s.
https://youtu.be/AGkDTFjHNVU?si=AHw_h-wh_sxhDK_M
Hozier celebrates his 33 birthday at Paddy Reilly’s on March 17, 2023.
For 37 years, Paddy Reilly’s has been a staple in the New York City Irish music scene. Musicians, such as Paddy Reilly’s house band The Prodigals along with Black 47, Eileen Ivers, John Whelan, and Joanie Madden, have all performed at this pub. Global icon Jimmy Fallon stopped to sing a couple of songs himself in February of 2023. A month later, Hozier celebrated his 33 birthday at the pub, which just happens to coincide with St. Patrick’s Day. Videos of Hozier performing at Paddy Reilly’s quickly went viral, causing people to swarm to Paddy Reilly’s and pack the narrow pub, each person hoping to catch a glimpse of the Irish legend.
Celebrities have made stops at Paddy Reilly’s long before Fallon and Hozier did. Gregory Grene, lead vocalist of Paddy Reilly’s house band The Prodigals, reminisced when supermodel Christy Turlington and actor Jason Patric booked a party at Paddy Reilly’s. In the midst of the party, Turlington hopped on stage and began singing with the band. Good craic was to be found in every corner of Paddy Reilly’s.
Lead singer of The Prodigals, Gregory Grene, sings alongside supermodel Christy Turlington at Paddy Reilly’s.
Despite Paddy Reilly’s fame, the pub almost shut its doors permanently after the Covid pandemic. Like many other establishments, the pandemic and the subsequent stall of live music caused Paddy Reilly’s to take an economic hit. “We were looking at the end of an era,” The Prodigals singer Gregory Grene stated. Just as Paddy Reilly’s future started to look bleak, its previous manager Desi Murray along with Joshua Irwin and Aria Bai took over.
“We gave the bar a nice, big hug when we took over,” Desi Murrary, one of the new owners of Paddy Reilly’s, stated. The bar closed for two months from April to June of 2023 for renovations. “We restored Paddy Reilly’s charms, upgraded equipment, and kept the same cozy and authentic environment.”
Grene stated the three “reinvested without trying to reinvent.” The foundation and old bones of the pub were given new life while keeping the heart and soul of it intact. With the renovations complete, Grene stated, “The pub is thriving in a way that brings back the early days.”
On June 18, 1993, Pierce Turner with Electric String Quartet performed at Paddy Reilly’s. Credit: Fred Parcells.
Paddy Reilly’s was established in 1986. During the early days, crowds would line up out the door whenever Black 47 would play on a Saturday night. At that time, the pub was owned by Steve Duggan and his partner, Irish musician Paddy Reilly, who gave the pub a direct link to the music industry. It’s only natural then that musicians would conjugate at the pub.
One such musician who frequented Paddy Reilly’s was Joanie Madden. As the leader of all-girl group Cherish the Ladies, Madden is an Irish-whistle player who’s charismatic and friendly nature is bound to put a smile on your face. With her big personality, Madden became omnipresent in the Irish music scene, seeming to somehow have either played with or helped every band. Paddy Reilly’s house band The Prodigals is no exception.
The Prodigal’s lead singer Grene remembered booking his first gig at Paddy Reilly’s. At the time, the band consisted of Grene, Ray Kelly, Brian Tracy, and Andrew Harkin. Grene went to the pub and gave a warm County Cavan greeting to owner Duggan and asked for a gig around St. Patrick’s Day. Duggan turned to the one and only force of nature Joanie Madden and asked, “Well Joanie, what’d ya think?” She replied, “Of course, go for it!” With that, Madden helped cement The Prodigals as Paddy Reilly’s band for the next 27 years.
From left to right: Owner of Paddy Reilly’s and Irish balladeer Paddy Reilly with The Prodigals – Ray Kelly (guitar / vocals), Andre Harkin (bass), and Gregory Grene (vocals / button accordion). Circa 1997.
Live music has always played a vital part in Paddy Reilly’s success. Grene stated, “Owner Duggan recognized that Irish music played a unique role in the Irish society in New York and recognized the fact that to be proudly Irish in a city that welcomes eclectic, authentic culture was key.” Grene referenced authentic restaurants and bars in various parts of the city. He stated, “They survive and thrive by being so authentically themselves. They reach out beyond their own community. Steve Duggan did that with Irish music.”
The music is unapologetically its authentic self. Take the late Shane MacGowan, the lead singer of The Pogues. “He wasn’t trying to cater to some other crowd,” Grene stated. “He was trying to cater to his own truth.” Grene went on to say, “I think when you have music that speaks truthfully, it becomes extraordinarily translatable, because people hear it’s speaking of the human condition.”
By speaking to the human condition, classic Irish songs, such as “Black Velvet Band,” “Dirty Old Town,” and “Wild Rover,” speak to the soul, allowing them to remain popular throughout the years. Songs and tunes dating back to the 18th century are now continuing to be played in 2024 in Manhattan. Their universal themes allow them to remain mainstream for generations to come.
These songs truly speak to every generation. Just take a look at Paddy Reilly’s audience. “You’ll meet a 23 year old from California and a 38 year old from County Clare or a 75 year old from Galway,” Grene stated.
On September 18, 1990, Black 47 performed at Paddy Reilly’s. Lead vocalist Larry Kirwan is pictured center. Credit: Fred Parcells.
Paddy Reilly’s appeals and offers events for all. Every Wednesday night starting at 9pm, Niall O’Leary hosts Irish Traditional Night. Not only can classic Irish tunes be heard on Wednesdays, but a small stage is brought out for Irish dancing. If you know a jig or reel, hop up on the square stage to step dance. Or if you’re more vocally inclined, you can sing at their Open Mic Night every Tuesday at 6pm. As always, there’s live music every single night of the week. Irish tunes alongside rock, folk, alternative, and bluegrass continuously echo throughout Paddy Reilly’s walls.
To join in on the craic, head to 519 2nd Avenue, New York, NY 10016. Enjoy the Guinness on draft, and sláinte to 37 more years of authentic Irish music at Paddy Reilly’s!
There are dozens of Irish pubs offering the best in Irish music throughout New York City. But what’s really the best of the best? Let this list of the top Irish Pubs in NYC act as your tour guide for this upcoming St. Patrick’s Day – or any day you want to enjoy some jigs and reels!
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Hozier celebrates his birthday at Paddy Reilly’s on St. Patrick’s Day in 2023.
Located in the heart of Kips Bay, Paddy Reilly’s has grown into a staple for live Irish music. Just last St. Patrick’s Day, Hozier celebrated his birthday at the pub and performed there live. Except to hear music every day at Paddy Reilly’s, not just on St. Patrick’s Day! For the past 27 years, the pub has been the home to local Irish band The Prodigals. When The Prodigals aren’t playing, expect to hear a blend of Irish classics with rock, folk, and alternative songs. Pub goers can take their own hand at singing too every Tuesday night at Paddy Reilly’s Open Mic Night. The following night is Irish Traditional Night hosted by Niall O’Leary. Every Wednesday night starting at 9pm, Paddy Reilly’s provides a space to enjoy traditional Irish music and stepdance. If you’re in Kips Bay, go to Paddy Reilly’s, sit on a barstool, order a Guinness, and enjoy the music for some good craic.
Cillian Vallely of the band Lúnasa plays at The Dead Rabbit’s Sunday seisiún.
2) The Dead Rabbit – 30 Water Street, Manhattan
Since its opening in 2013, The Dead Rabbit has won numerous awards, and rightfully so! The Dead Rabbit was awarded “World’s Best Bar” in 2016 at the 9th annual Tales of the Cocktail’s Spirited Awards. One could see why when they step into The Dead Rabbit, which seems to be three separate bars seamlessly blended into one. The bar is split into the Taproom, the Parlor, and the Occasional Room. The Parlor hosts various cocktails and comfortable seating; while, the Occasional Room is available for private events. But if it’s live music and good craic you’re looking for, head no further than the Taproom. The Taproom hosts numerous artworks from various contemporary Irish creatives. The Dead Rabbit’s commitment to the arts is also heard every Sunday night from 6-10pm. The seisiúns (sessions) host different musicians every week. You’ll hear everything from the fiddle and guitar to the Irish whistle and bodhrán. Pair it with a Sunday roast and Irish coffee for the perfect way to end your weekend.
James Margolis Trio performs at An Béal Bocht Cafe.
3) An Béal Bocht Cafe – 445 W 238th Street, Bronx
Translating to “the poor mouth” in Irish Gaelic, An Béal Bocht Cafe is named after Irish novelist and playwright Flann O’Brien’s 1941 novel. Living up to its literary name, An Béal Bocht Cafe is covered in portraits of Irish literary legends, such as James Joyce. The pub has been home to the Arts in Riverdale for over 30 years. Every second Wednesday of the month is Writers / Poetry Night hosted by Melinda Wilson and Erin Lynn. Not only does the pub highlight literature but also music. An Béal Bocht Cafe is home to the Bronx’s longest running Irish traditional session. Spanning over 25 years, the session is hosted every Sunday from 4-7pm by Lindsey Ceitinn and Michelle Bergin. So head up to the Bronx, right next to Manhattan College, to join in on the live music every Sunday evening.
The perfect pint of Guinness poured at Grace’s in Manhattan.
4) Grace’s Pub – 252 West 14th Street, Manhattan
Opening just six years ago in 2018, Grace’s has already cemented itself into the weekly lineup of can’t miss Irish music sessions. Every Wednesday night starting at 8pm, Matt Stapleton and guests host an Irish music session where any musician can join in, such as Come From Away musician Pat Mangan, who has joined in on many a session at Grace’s. The traditional Irish music coupled with the pub’s classic Manhattan bar decor offers a comfy and chic atmosphere that is the perfect oasis from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you can’t get enough of Grace’s, head to its sister bar Hartley’s located at 14 Putnam Avenue, Brooklyn for an even homier atmosphere and for live music every Monday night starting at 8pm.
Musicians perform at Mary O’s weekly Thursday night session.
5) Mary O’s – 32 Avenue A, Manhattan
Located in the East Village, Mary O’s has been committed to keeping the tradition of Irish music alive since 2009. Even when Mary O’s was closed during the pandemic, musicians longed for the pub’s sessions so much that session regulars Catilin Warbelow and Chris Ranney started virtual Mary O’s sessions via Tune Supply on YouTube. The virtual sessions kept Mary O’s Irish music community alive, and now, the sessions can be enjoyed in-person every Thursday from 8-11pm with different guest leaders every week. Visit to join Mary O’s musical community while enjoying their staple Irish soda bread scones.
Afrobeats artists Shallipopi and Odumodublvck have announce a co-headline ‘Nigeria’s Most Wanted Tour 2024’, the first-ever joint tour in Afrobeats history. The nine-city tour includes a stop at Irving Plaza on Thursday, May 2.
Shallipopi (Crown Uzama), also known as Pluto Presido, stands as a testament to the boundless potential of creativity and the rapid influence of social media in the music world. Hailing from Benin in Nigeria, Shallipopi has crafted a unique niche for himself as an exceptionally talented singer and trendsetter.
It was 2023 that witnessed his meteoric ascent, as he unleashed his hit single “Elon Musk.” The song became an instant sensation, catapulting him into the spotlight and setting the stage for a series of subsequent triumphs. Hits like “Sharpiru” and the electrifying remix of “Elon Musk” further solidified his status as a musical force to be reckoned with.
Marking another milestone in his extraordinary journey, he launched his record label -“Plutomania Records” in October of 2023 with two signees – Zerrydl & Tega Boi Dc who have both featured on previous projects with him. Shallipopi’s fusion of raw talent, unrelenting determination, and unwavering dedication positions him as a true trendsetter.
Odumodublvck, born Tochukwu Gbubemi Ojogwu, has emerged as a prominent voice in Nigerian Hip-Hop, seamlessly blending drill, grime, and Afrobeat influences. His viral 2023 single, “Declan Rice,” showcased his shapeshifting flows, paving the way for his critically acclaimed mixtape “EZIOKWU” on NATIVE Records/Def Jam.
Despite his diverse musical aesthetics, Odumodublvck emphasizes the universality of his songs, aiming to connect with a broad audience. Originally a soccer enthusiast from Abuja, Odumodublvck absorbed Ghanaian music from his father’s collection and later drew inspiration from artists such as Sisqó, Sean Paul, Lil Wayne, 50 Cent, and JAY-Z. Stylistically influenced by 50 Cent and inspired by JAY-Z’s journey to superstardom, Odumodublvck navigates the music scene with determination.
Their joint single, “Cast” was released in November 2023 and peaked at #1 on TurnTable Top 100 and at Top 10 on Billboard US Afrobeats.
Shallipopi & Odumodublvck’s individual projects “Presido La Pluto” and “EZIOKWU” also peaked at #1 on the TurnTable Top 100 Albums lists with #1 hits “Elon Musk” and “Ex-Convict” from Shallipopi and “Blood On the Dance Floor” feat. Wale & Bloody Civilian + “Declan Rice” from Odumodublvck.
Blues legend Taj Mahal and Gambian legend-in-the-making Sona Jobarteh graced the stage of the Hart Theater at The Egg on Thursday, March 7 for an immaculate night of globe-spanning music.
Taj Mahal – photo by Conor McMahon
Sona Jobarteh is the first female griot kora master, hailing from one of the five principal kora-playing families in West Africa. With a history spanning 1,000 years, Sona continues a legacy handed down for generations, for the first time to a woman who makes her presence known on the stage and in her home of The Gambia. Jobarteh’s humanitarian activism has led to her founding The Gambia Academy, an institution dedicated educational reform for Africans on the continent of Africa.
Pairing her virtuosity on the kora and the guitar with ethereal vocals, Sona and her band blended traditional West African music with blues and pop from the Mother Continent, and in doing so created an original sound that is at times hypnotic. Walking out one at a time – first the percussion and bass, then guitar and finally Jobarteh – the audience was led immediately to engage in a call and response song, “Jarabi,” with an outset intention to engage all for this very full evening of music.
For an hour, Jobarteh demonstrated with precision the kora while her band crafted beats unlike any other. Each song was given an introduction, with meaning and spirituality invoked throughout, making the connection to the music deeper as the performance progressed. Jobarteh is a beacon of light from West Africa, shining farther west than her ancestors could have ever imagined.
Sona Jobarteh and her band at The Egg – photo by Pete Mason
Harlem-born Taj Mahal took the stage a short while later, strutting out to center stage in his signature Panama hat, surrounded by at least seven guitars of varying sound and size. Opening with “Wild About My Lovin’,” his vocals were tinged with age and rasp, perfect for a gritty blues love song. “Fishing Blues” and the classic “Corrina” followed, after Taj Mahal noted that he had a lack of radio hits over his career.
“Queen Bee” was dedicated to the guys in the audience, with a suggestion that they play this song for their girl the next chance they get. A hint of the Caribbean could be heard in the steel drums of Robert Greenidge (formerly of Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefers Band) throughout the evening, while the Hawaiian steel guitar of Bobby Ingano on a cover Santo and Johnny’s “Sleepwalk” creating a creole stew of blues from across the hemisphere.
Taj Mahal and his band with Sona Jobarteh and her band
For an encore, Sona Jobarteh and her band were welcomed back to the stage to perform, “Giant Step.” Watch the song below and photos by Conor McMahon.
Taj Mahal Setlist: Wild About My Lovin’, Fishing Blues, Corrina, Bettye and Dupree, Cakewalk into Town, Queen Bee, Slow Drag, Roscoe’s Mule, Lovin’ in my Baby’s Eye, Sleepwalk, Blackjack Davey, Giant Step (with Sona Jobarte and her band)
Slightly Stoopid and Dirty Heads have announced their 2024 “Slightly Dirty Summer Tour,” with a stop at Northwell Health at the Jones Beach Theater on July 20.
Formed in 1994 by the duo of Kyle McDonald and Miles Doughty, Slightly Stoopid is more than just a band—it’s a musical brotherhood. These childhood friends from Southern California set out to create a genre-defying fusion of punk, metal, folk, blues, rock, and reggae. Slightly Stoopid has dominated well-known festivals like Coachella, Lollapalooza, and New Orleans Jazz Fest. After founding Stoopid Records, they earned platinum and gold singles like “Collie Man,” “2am,” and “Closer To The Sun.”
These rockers are no strangers to the stage; their ‘Summertime 2023’ tour was a huge success. Now that Common Kings (exclusive to Holmdel) and The Elovaters are joining the fun, the “Slightly Dirty Summer Tour” is sure increase standards.
Slightly Dirty
Slightly Stoopid’s Miles Doughty expresses his excitement, saying “Slightly Dirty Summer 2024 is gonna be nuts! It’s been a minute since we did a full summer tour with our brothers the Dirty Heads and we are excited to get this party started”. Duddy B. of Dirty Heads chats about being back on the road. “Every time we get together, it’s nothing but good times, and I expect nothing less this summer!”
Dirty Heads
General on-sale starts March 8 at 10am on LiveNation.com. However, it goes beyond just the music—Dirty Heads and Slightly Stoopid are also giving back. Your concert experience will be even more meaningful given that $1 from each ticket sold will benefit Maui Food Bank.
