Category: Festival News

  • Dispatch and The Revivalists to Headline Memorial Meltdown in Lake George Over Memorial Day Weekend

    The 2024 summer concert season kicks off this Memorial Day weekend with in Lake George with Memorial Meltdown, headlined by Dispatch, The Revivalists, Mihali and more.

    Taking place at Charles R. Wood Park in downtown Lake George on Saturday, May 25 and Sunday May 26, Memorial Meltdown 2024 will feature headliners The Revivalists (Saturday) and Dispatch (Sunday), along with performances by Ryan Montbleau Band, The Mallett Brothers Band and Rob Beaulieu Band on Saturday and Mihali (Live Band), The Samples and Annie in the Water on Sunday.

    Memorial Meltdown

    Formed by Chadwick Stokes and Brad Corrigan, Dispatch has forged its own path outside the mainstream music industry as one of the most successful bands in the roots rock scene. With 8 studio albums, 6 live albums, and over 25 years of touring and festivals under their belts, the band has become one of biggest success stories in independent music history, selling out three nights at Madison Square Garden and drawing over 100,000 fans to a massive outdoor show in their adopted hometown of Boston without any traditional radio or major label support.

    Throughout their rise, Dispatch has taken every opportunity to use their success for good, launching charitable organizations to address social justice issues, raising funds and awareness for domestic hunger, education reform, sexual harassment in the music industry, and organizations serving children and communities in Zimbabwe. Chadwick Stokes’ Calling All Crows joins bands and fans together in collective activism, while Brad Corrigan’s Love Light + Melody help simplify the stories of children who live in extreme poverty.

    Eight-piece rock ‘n’ roll collective The Revivalists have made the journey from hole-in-the-wall gigs to sold-out shows at hallowed venues, multiplatinum success, more than 800 million streams and major media praise.  Renowned for their live prowess, soulful alt-rock anthems, distinct mix of many of the classic styles of American music, and outward generosity through their philanthropic Rev Causes initiative, The Revivalists make the kind of rock ‘n’ roll that grabs you and doesn’t let go, whether for a joyful release or a pensive observation about life.

    Mihali, who’s band Twiddle has headlined Memorial Meltdown the past two years, returns this year with his live band, which also features Twiddle members Zdenek Gubb (bass) and Adrian Tramontano (drums), along with Scott Hannay (keys) and a horn section.

    The two-day event, produced by the same folks who produce Adirondack Independence Music Festival at the same location, will also feature a variety of food and craft vendors. 

    Gates open each day at 2:30pm with music set to begin at 3:30pm and run until about 11:00pm.  Tickets for Memorial Meltdown 2024, an all-ages event, are on sale now. For more info visit memorialmeltdown.com.

  • 8th Annual Beau Fleuve Music & Arts Celebration Announced

    Beau Fleuve Music & Arts has announced its eighth annual celebration for Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024, on the historical grounds of the Buffalo Central Terminal.

    Beau Fleuve Music & Arts strives to celebrate all music, arts, and culture. In 2017, they launched the annual celebration to drive their purpose and mission by standing on the pillars of diversity to build bridges in the community through the arts. Beau Fleuve has been attracting artists and visitors from across the region and abroad throughout New York State, Southern Ontario, and the Northeast to enjoy the festivities.

    The Annual Celebration has built a reputation and niche for hosting featuring nationally and internationally touring artists as their careers are ascending, such as Danielle Ponder, Benny the Butcher, Super American, DJ Shub, Venzella Joy, Zuri Appleby, Stove God Cooks, Eric Van Houten, and more.

    “I’m always extremely grateful for what we are able to cultivate each year and provide spaces for all to enjoy,” said Lindsey Taylor, Founder. The festival has multiple stages from regional, national and international musical acts, art installations & exhibitions, interactive activation spaces, a family fun zone, live podcast, Canna Lounge, Pullup & Pitch contest, street art, fashion, sports culture, film, backyard games, food trucks, beer & wine garden,  mind + body + soul health & wellness, vendors village and more.

    Photo by John Adams II.

    One of the confirmed artists for this year’s Beau Fleuve Music & Arts Celebration is a soft rock sibling band from New York City INFINITY SONG. With a blend of tight vocal harmonies, dreamy lyricism, and sublime guitar riffs, the band creates a transcendent experience – amassing millions of views and attention from some of Hollywood’s biggest names. Their sound has led many listeners to compare the band to legendary 70s groups such as Fifth Dimension, The Mamas and the Papas, and ABBA.

    Through Beau Flueve’s foundation, they create music and arts programs for Inner City Youth ages 5-22 and service the community at large through arts, cultural, and community placemaking such as after-school programs and workshops, summer arts programs, public art initiatives, paid summer internship program, community cleanups, seasonal givebacks, high school scholarships, and more.

    For more information about Beau Fleuve, visit here.

  • Syracuse Jazz Festival 2024 Lineup Announced

    The Syracuse Jazz Festival 2024 lineup has been announced, returning from June 26-30, 2024 with headliners Kenny G, The O’Jays, The Mavericks, and more.

    Syracuse Jazz Festival 2024

    Syracuse Jazz Fest is an annual four-day free admission jazz festival staged outdoors in downtown Syracuse at historic Clinton Square Park and indoors on opening night at various clubs, bars, restaurants, and hotels in Armory Square, Havorver Square, and the Downtown Entertainment District.

    The festival kicks off on June 26 from 5-10 p.m. Artists include Marissa Mulder & Jon Weber, Joe Magnarelli Organ Band featuring Akiko Tsuruga, Tish Oney’s Salute to Sarah Vaughan, Wayne Tucker & The Bad Motha’s, Avenue, Sam Wynn’s All-Star Tribute To Donny Hathaway, and so many more.

    Thursday, June 27 brings icons to the historic Clinton Square Park, including The Mavericks from 9:30-11 p.m., an Americana music band that originated in the late 1980s in Miami, Florida. The core band today consists of Cuban-American Raul Malo (lead vocals, bass guitar), Paul Deakin (drums), Eddie Perez (lead guitar), and Jerry Dale McFadden (keyboards).

    Other artists that day include McKinley James, the Catherine Russel Band, Bill O’Connell’s Latin Jazz All-Stars, and The Katz Pajamas Jazz Band.

    The Syracuse Jazz Festival 2024 continues on Friday, June 28 with the SU Student Jazz Combo Orange Juice from 4-4:45 p.m. Other acts include Jane Bunnett & Maqueque, Freda Payne Big Band, Gunhild Carling Big Band, and headliner Kenny G from 9:25-11 p.m.

    Kenny G is a living legend and iconic American jazz saxophonist, composer, and producer, and one of the best-selling artists of all time, with global sales totaling more than 75 million records. He is making his third headline appearance at the festival, where he delighted audiences with back-to-back performances in 2012 on the OCC Campus, and in 2013 at the 30th Anniversary edition staged at Jamesville Beach State Park.

    The final day begins with the SU Faculty Jazz Ensemble starting at 5 p.m. Other artists include the James Carter Quintet, Gino Vanneli, and headliners The O’Jays. They are an American R&B group from Canton, Ohio, formed in the Summer of 1958 – originally consisting of Eddie Levert, Walter Lee Williams, William Powell, Bobby Massey, and Bill Isles. The O’Jays made their first chart appearance with the “Lonely Drifter” in 1963, and their greatest level of success once the producers Gamble & Huff signed them to their Philadelphia International label in 1972. In 2024, after 66 years of recording, touring, and performing globally, the O’Jays are making The Last Stop on the Love Train.

    For more information about Syracuse Jazz Festival 2024, visit here.

  • Buffalo Blues & Roots Festival Announce 3rd Annual Event this April

    Barry Entertainment & Three Chord Bourbon proudly present the 3rd Annual Buffalo Blues & Roots Festival Saturday, April 20, at Buffalo RiverWorks.

    Buffalo Blues & Roots Festival

    This all-day event features the best in national, regional and local blues and roots acts, as well as over 20 local vendors and artisans, food/drinks and more. Some of the acts include Victor Wainwright & The Train, Tas Cru, Miller & The Other Sinners, and more.

    The Buffalo Blues & Roots Festival returns for its 3rd year this April. The lineup is hefty with names like Patti Parks, Tonemah, The Growlers, Dave Thurman and more. GRAMMY-nominated Victor Wainwright & The Train see the stage to dazzle and move the audience with their immense soul, and creative fire.

    Victor Wainwright & The Train

    VIP tickets run for $60, while general admission tickets are selling for $30. For more information on the Blues & Roots Festival and to purchase tickets, click here.

  • Sound Mind Music Festival For Mental Health Returns to Brooklyn

    On Saturday, May 18, the Sound Mind Music Festival proudly returns to Brooklyn for its sixth year. This festival isn’t just about entertainment, it’s a powerful platform for raising awareness about mental health.

    Since the beginning, this festival has been more than just a lineup of acts; it has inspired improvement and offered hope. Over the years the festival has become a must-attend occasion rooted in the belief that music has therapeutic qualities. Sound Mind Music Festival creates a safe space where music and conversations about mental health coexist harmoniously. Attendees are asked to look into the relationship between music and mental wellness through live performances, panel discussions, and interactive workshops.

    Bailen – Photo by Dery Keretic

    This year’s event has a staggering lineup, including well-known performers like MisterWives, Kevin Morby, Bailen, SHAED, and DJ White Shadow. Every musical taste can be satisfied. 

    MisterWives – Photo by Matty Vogel

    Beyond the music, the festival provides a wide range of experiences meant to nourish the body and the mind. Folks can take part in mindful breathing workshops, movement and yoga classes, and a dance party with DJ sets at House of Yes. Additionally, look forward to the afterparty with DJ White Shadow at Elsewhere directly after the event.

    SHAED – Photo by Cody Ackors

    Moreover, the festival aims to make a difference. The proceeds will support the Sound Mind Center, crafting transformative healing experiences through music and sound.

    DJ White Shadow

    In essence, the Sound Mind Music Festival teaches understanding, empathy, and healing; it offers hope in a world where mental health illnesses have become more common. Get tickets here.

  • HOT 97 Announces 30th Annual Summer Jam at UBS Arena in Long Island

    HOT 97’s Summer Jam festival sees UBS Arena in Elmont, New York as the host for the event’s 30th anniversary. The festival sees a stellar lineup of some of hip hop’s most notable names. This includes Doja Cat, Sexxy Redd, Offset, Method Man, Redman and many more.

    Hip hop’s biggest celebration begins June 2 at UBS Arena in Elmont, Long Island. Summer Jam 2024 sees an explosive celebration of HOT 97’s legacy and the biggest names hip hop has to offer. Cemented rap artists of today, legends of the past, and rising stars all gather at Summer Jam to show their talent and to make the crowd move.

    Headlining this historic occasion are chart-toppers Doja Cat, Davido, and Offset, alongside fan-favorites such as Sexyy Red, the legendary duo Method Man and Redman, rising star Sleepy Hallow, Detroit’s pride Tee Grizzley, and the dynamic 41 Kyle Richh, Jenn Carter, and TaTa.

    Legendary Hip Hop Duo, Method Man and Redman

    Summer Jam started humbly and become a cultural phenomenon. The festival has continuously pushed boundaries and shaped the landscape of hip-hop. With icons Method Man and Redman joining forces to set the stage on fire, this year’s lineup reflects the evolution of the genre and pays homage to the artists who have contributed to its legacy over the past three decades.

    Summer Jam at UBS is something that’ll recur. UBS Arena is the festival’s new home now that its fully built and ready for massive audiences. The arena has been meticulously designed to elevate fans’ audio experience during performances, and those in attendance can vouch.

    Summer Jam 2019 at Metlife Stadium

    General public tickets will officially go on sale on Friday, March 22nd at 10 am on HOT97.com  and ticketmaster.com. You do not want to miss Summer Jam at UBS Arena.

  • CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival 2024 Lineup Announced

    The 2024 CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival 21st edition lineup is available now, held from Friday, June 21 to Saturday, June 29, at 20 indoor and outdoor venues, all within walking distance in downtown Rochester’s east-end cultural district.

    CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival.
    Pedrito Martinez, photo by Thom Bell.

    Founded in 2002, the CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival is one of the world’s leading jazz festivals, held annually in Rochester with over 210,000 attendees. Over nine days, there are 300 shows with more than 1750 artists, traveling from Australia, Benin (West Africa), Canada, Cuba, Denmark, England, Finland, Japan, and more. The festival is produced by RIJF, LLC, a privately held company owned by John Nugent and Marc Iacona.

    We’re incredibly proud of this year’s diverse lineup and hope everyone will thoroughly enjoy all the spectacular performances. Once again, there has been no shortage of incredible artists from around the world who have submitted materials to perform for our amazing Rochester audiences! Choosing and confirming artists brings about a serendipity surrounding touring schedules and timing. We’re very pleased to have completed another artistic canvas for our audiences’ ears to enjoy. On behalf of our entire RIJF team, we thank everyone who attends the festival, our festival team and volunteers, and our amazing sponsors for their continuing support and loyalty. Three new sponsors are joining us this year: Rochester Institute of Technology, Wow Werks, and the Inn on Broadway. We look forward to welcoming everyone to our 21st Edition on Jazz Street in June!

    John Nugent and Marc Iacona.

    Music will fill the air with more than 1750 artists from 16 countries to play in 326 concerts, including 100-plus free shows. There are five free headliner shows, four nights on the Wegmans Stage at Parcel 5, and one night on the City of Rochester Stage at East & Chestnut. On June 22, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram brings his dramatic and searing guitar tones to the stage, with Chris Beard Band opening. Shelia E. and the E-Train comes to the stage on June 26 with Grupo Ife opening.

    On June 27, Los Lonely Boys brings the Garza brothers to the stage, with Miller & The Other Sinners opening. June 28 brings Cimafunk to the stage with Latriste Fulton & Frequency opening. His name refers to his heritage as a “cimarrón,” Cubans of African descent who resisted and escaped slavery, as well as to the essence of his music, which aims to mix classical Cuban rhythms with funk, afrobeat, and hip hop. The last free event on June 29 is Rejuvenation 50! Celebrating The Meters, A New Orleans Mardi Gras Party – sure to bring quite the crowd!

    Two new venues join the Club Pass Series this year: the historic Inn on Broadway, with two shows nightly at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m., and The Duke, a new entertainment space located in Sibley Square adjacent to the Mercantile on Main Street, with two shows nightly at 7:45 and 9:45 p.m. Food and drinks will be available at both venues.

    A record 51 shows will be presented on the Jazz Street Stage, including 24 student jazz bands and jazz ensembles from Eastman. Jazz Starts at the Library, a series of five free noon concerts, returns to the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, featuring Trio 55, Hanna PK, Simon Fletcher, Jimmy Highsmith Jr., and Jazz Generation.

    Other highlights include five free Jazz Workshops sponsored by Wegmans, led by visiting artists for music students of all ages. Held at Eastman School of Music from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in the Ray Wright Room 120, artists include Tommy Smith, Saxophone, Jae Sinett, Drums, Roberto Occipinti, Bass, Johnny Johnson, Sax, and Mike Kaupa, Trumpet.

    Photo by Eli Stein.

    Jam Sessions will be held nightly at 10:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Rochester Astor on Main, sponsored by the Dimarco Group. Jams will be led by trumpeter Mike Cottone on Fridays and Saturdays and guitarist Bob Sneider on Sunday through Thursday. Food and drinks are available, with no cover.

    Finally, five ticketed headliner shows will be presented at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theater. All shows are at 8 p.m. On June 21, Taj Mahal brings his talents to the stage, with the Lee Ritenour Band on the 22. Rising star and recent GRAMMY award winner Laufey takes the stage on June 26, sold out. John Oates, co-founder of the iconic music creators Hall & Oates, takes the stage as a solo act on the 27, and multiple GRAMMY award winner Samara Joy wraps up the headliner shows on the 28.

    The Festival’s signature Club Pass Series will feature 216 shows at 12 diverse venues with some of the finest jazz artists. Access with a 3 or 9-day Club Pass, the festival’s value pass, or $30 cash at the door. Tickets for headliner shows and Club Passes are available now. For more information on other events at the International Jazz Festival, tickets, and the full lineup – visit here.

  • Peach at the Beach Adds Late Night ‘Peach After Dark’ Sets with Disco Biscuits and Marco Benevnto & Friends

    Peach at the Beach, the full-day live music gathering at the new Summer Concert Stage at ISLAND Water Park at Showboat Resort in Atlantic City, NJ, on Saturday, July 13, announced two Peach After Dark sets for Friday, July 12 and Saturday, July 13.

    Peach at the Beach, inspired by the legendary music of the Allman Brothers Band, features the headliner Joe Russo’s Almost Dead (JRAD), Dogs In A Pile, Trouble No More performing the Allman Brothers Band iconic album Eat A Peach, Karina Rykman, Mykal Rose of Black Uhuru, and more.

    The theme of The Peach at the Beach is reconnecting with friends and embracing the essence of what makes The Peach so unique. Their mission is to continue spreading as much love and positive energy as possible.

    The Summer Concert Stage at ISLAND Waterpark at Showboat Resort is Atlantic City’s newest concert venue, located outdoors among the sand, the sea, and stars, steps away from the beach, and boardwalk. It is the largest indoor beachfront waterpark in the world, covering 120,000 square feet and holding more than 317,000 gallons of water, with 11 crazy slides.

    The Disco Biscuits will perform a pre-party Peach After Dark set on Friday, July 12 at the Bourbon Ballroom inside the Showboat Resort. Marco Benevento & Friends, along with Doom Flamingo presents Queen Is Doomed, will perform a post-party Peach After Dark set on Saturday, July 13, also inside the Bourbon Ballroom at Showboat.

    An early bird presale will begin on Tuesday, March 19 at 12 p.m. ahead of the general on-sale on Friday, March 22 at 10 a.m.

    Super VIP packages include access to the Peach After Dark sets,  and passes to the ISLAND Water Park at Showboat Resort on Saturday. VIP and GA+ tickets include passes to the ISLAND Water Park at Showboat on Saturday with additional amenities.

  • Scarsdale Music Festival Announces Lineup

    Scarsdale Music Festival has announced its fourth annual lineup- featuring amazing talent who will perform on two main stages throughout the day and an all-new acoustic stage. Twelve bands from Scarsdale and the greater Tri-State area were chosen through an extensive selection process from over 70 submitted applicants.

    Scarsdale Music Festival

    SMF is an exceptional, family-friendly community event that brings together thousands of people of all ages to celebrate their love of music, food, and community. The fourth annual festival, hosted by the Scarsdale Business Alliance (SBA), will take place rain or shine on Saturday, June 1st, from 12-6 pm in Scarsdale Village, benefitting Daniel’s Music Foundation, which empowers individuals with disabilities through music education, performance, and socialization. 

    This year’s Grand Tasting Village will feature elite wines from around the world, specialty cocktails, and food pairings. In addition, guests 21+ can also purchase beer and wine by the glass. The Family Fun Zone will feature carnival games, face painters, arts and crafts, musical demonstrations, DIY and STEAM activities, sports, inflatables, and more! 

    Scarsdale Music Festival Lineup

    Artia Tobia, a NYC-based artist who infuses his Americana roots with a modern edge, will deliver heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies that resonate with audiences across genres. Conversing with Oceans is a fully evolved indie rock band based in Westchester looking to their rock past to explore new sounds and musical landscapes. Their debut LP WILD / DREAMS is a dedicated rock album, displaying what these four musicians can do. The Del Bocas have been a Scarsdale-based band for over ten years, seeing themselves as a “wild jukebox” – with a large repertoire of songs from the ’60s to today.

    Doni Nicole and the DNE Band is a multifaceted artist, entrepreneur, and mother, based in New Rochelle, whose music spans various genres, from gospel to world music. Notable achievements include singing background for iconic artists like Patti Labelle and releasing chart-topping singles such as “New Joy2” and “Drummer Boy.” Euphoria is a five-person band from New York with a unique brand of performance style, entertaining audiences with a refreshing take on beloved songs. Hunter Roa is a band whose sounds harken back to when rock was rock and originality was essential, drawing influences from Soundgarden, Aerosmith, and other greats – leading the Rock Renaissance. Lauren Minear is a critically acclaimed indie folk-pop singer-songwriter, psychotherapist, and mother based in New York, drawing inspiration from her eclectic background to craft soulful melodies and introspective lyrics that captivate audiences with their authenticity and depth.

    The Men of Soul is a talented, dynamic three-man vocal group from NYC, accompanied by a four-piece band bringing classic, neo-soul, and R&B music to the stage. Rennie Pincus & Friends is a Scarsdale-based band whose recent album, DEAL, explores the music of The Grateful Dead and features guests Elliot Easton (The Cars), Jack Petruzelli (Joan Osborne), Matt Rae (Arlen Roth), and Annalyse & Ryan. NYC/Westchester-based band Skyfactor released their newest album A Thousand Sounds, and they’re behind the song “OK” from MTV’s hit show Teen Mom. Trinity is a versatile artist whose eclectic sound seamlessly blends elements of R&B, hip-hop, and pop, captivating audiences with her soulful vocals and introspective lyrics, advocating for social justice and empowerment.

    Finally, the Zac Hoina Trio is a dynamic blues trio known for their electrifying live shows, where they skillfully blend raw emotion with authentic blues sounds, captivating audiences with their soulful performances and masterful musicianship.

    The Daniel Music Foundation has featured performers, including Daniel & Gerry, performing folk-rock songs that focus on kindness and understanding, with an overall message of acceptance. George Dennehy will perform his heart and soul on stage, telling his story, while Opera singer Iolanta Mamatkazina shatters stereotypes. Finally, Jake Nielsen brings the rock vibes.

    Tickets are now on sale for the 2024 Scarsdale Music Festival.

  • Great Blue Heron 2024 Festival Announced

    The Great Blue Heron 2024 festival lineup has been announced, featuring 33 artists on three stages from July 5-7. Fan favorites and amazing Heron first-timers come together for what is sure to be a great weekend!

    Great Blue Heron 2024

    The Great Blue Heron Festival draws in thousands of fans from across the U.S. each year, remaining a tradition for people young and old to celebrate self-expression and music. The festival will take place at the Heron Farm in Sherman, an award-winning campsite, voted number one in the U.S. by HipCamp. The Heron is open daily for seasonal camping from May through October along with the Green Heron Growers Farm Store.

    David Tidquist and Julie Rockcastle founded the festival, built to present a diverse assortment of original music from regional and national artists, create a collaborative space where all are encouraged to participate and interact, foster a cooperative and positive environment for celebration, and ensure a safe and satisfying experience for the whole community.

    There are three stages; the Main Stage, the big top Dance Tent, and the Tiger Maple Stage, as well as over 30 artists, featuring returning headliners Donna the Buffalo. The group has been together for over thirty years, releasing over ten records, and performing with various musicians, including prominent folk/roots performers such as Jim Lauderdale, the father and son zydeco musicians Preston and Keith Frank, and more.

    Great Blue Heron 2024

    The lineup for the Great Blue Heron 2024 Festival includes Donna the Buffalo, Sam Bush, Rubblebucket, Couch, Jimkata, Driftwood, Cool Cool Cool, Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad, Buffalo Zydeco, and so much more.

    To purchase tickets for the Great Blue Heron 2024 Festival, visit here.