On the eve of Haitian Flag Day, Haitian-American rapper Mach-Hommy released #Richaxxhaitian, bringing another edition to his extensive and culturally aware discography. Additionally, this latest LP is the New Jersey native’s first solo project since 2021’s Balens Cho and Pray For Haiti, the latter of which brought the purposefully reclusive rapper mainstream acclaim.
Mach-Hommy returns with his first solo project since 2021.
Donning his trademark Haitian flag over his face on the album cover, this latest 17-track, 47-minute project is kaleidoscopic in sound with varying musical themes throughout the album, giving the feel of a true feature presentation. However, Mach always returns to the themes of Haiti and its current social-political upheaval. Moreover, the proud Haitian rapper continues to bar music websites from transcribing his lyrics. Thus his weaving in-and-out between english and creole throughout the album maintains some form of mystique for non-creole speakers, inhibiting them in understanding but not in the overall listening experience. Nonetheless, Mach recruits the likes of Black Thought, Roc Marciano, Your Old Droog and frequent collaborator, Tha God Fahim to add to the overall lyrical experience for the album. Meanwhile, Conductor Williams adds his touch of slightly aged production to offer that raw, gritty, authentic feel to the album.
Although Mach-Hommy isn’t much for promo, he released a music video for the song “#Richaxxhaitian.” An uptempo, groovy track, it’s a departure from Mach’s usual tone, however the green and mountainous scenery and theme of the record reflect what Mach is trying to present in the name of the song and the album.
All in all, with no online presence, Mach-Hommy leaves his work to be consumed and debated with no input from him or anyone from his team. As a result he has pigeonholed himself a space in the creative hip hop lane.
Troy Chromatic Concerts will return for its 127th season at the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall this fall. Performances for 2024-2025 feature numerous talents from across the globe, including the Australian Chamber Orchestra with Richard Tognetti. The venue, now a National Historic Landmark in Renneslaer, has been an establishment of New York classical music since 1874 and has hosted performances by world-renowned artists, from Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Isaac Stern, Yo-Yo Ma, and Vladimir Horowitz, to the best on today’s music scene, including Boz Scaggs, India Arie, Lake Street Dive, Trey Anastasio, and many more.
Frank Vignola an Tessa Lark
The upcoming lineup includes the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra from Riverside, NY. They will be joined by violin virtuoso Maxim Vengerov playing selections from Mozart’s “Violin Concerto.” Following this, 24-year-old violin prodigy Randall Goosby, will perform Mendelssohn and Janáček in his repertoire. Lastly, the acclaimed Steven Isserlis CBE to close out the season with a cello recital set to play Beethoven’s “Cello Sonata No. 2.”
The music hall is offering new subscribers a one-time special price for the season, adding that early subscription commitments go a long way toward supporting the enduring tradition of presenting classical music performances from 1894. Subscription renewals received by June 14, 2024 will guarantee preferred seats from the last season. First-time subscribers enjoy a 32% and can now lock in their favorite seats the entire season for $150. More information on the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall and upcoming programs is available at www.troymusichall.org.
To perform “The Ottoman Four Seasons” with violinist Richard Tognetti directing their high octane and brave interpretive style.
November 3rd: Orpheus Chamber Orchestra
Joined by violin virtuoso Maxim Vengerov performing selections from Mozart’s “Violin Concerto.”
November 23rd: Randall Goosby
24-year-old violin prodigy performs Mendelssohn, Janáček among other pieces, paired with
a string quartet.
February 4th: Steven Isserlis
Acclaimed British cellist will close out the 127th season with a cello recital featuring Canadian pianist Connie Shih performing several cello favorites, including Beethoven’s “Cello Sonata No. 2.”
New York City’s preeminent hit-maker A Boogie returns with Better off Alone, his first full-length project since 2022’s Me vs Myself. This latest 21-track LP sees the Bronx native interpolate his melodic raps with a new wave of production much akin to the new “sexy drill” phenomenon that has become prominent in the New York City landscape, going away from the slower paced samples that have become something of a staple for the Grammy-nominated rapper. After all the “Man in the Mirror” rapper, best known for his lovesick croons, continues to find ways to put a twist to his songwriting style that has made him unique in New York City hip hop lore known for their machismo. In like manner, A Boogie recruits three distinct features in Future, Lil Durk, Young Thug and Cash Cobain that also walk the line between rap braggadocio and emotional vulnerability.
A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie releases his 5th studio album
A Boogie – Better Off Alone
And while Better off Alone contains plenty of introspective A Boogie, with rumors of trouble between A Boogie and his longtime girlfriend preceding the album, it seems the project and its contents have been in the works very much in advance as all three records from his 2023 mixtape B4 BOA made the final cut. Thus “Did Me Wrong,” “Her Birthday” and “Booby Trap” all served as initial promotional singles for his latest effort, with “Her Birthday” standing out as a classic lovesick A Boogie track, followed by a similarly themed music video.
To cap off the album’s release, A Boogie brought popular podcast due Gillie and Wallo (Millions Dollarz Worth of Game) to the Bronx for an authentic, New York inner-city vibe. With A Boogie bringing his crew and a Lamborghini to the Highbridge neighborhood of the Bronx. Notably, Boogie even shouts out Gillie on “No More Questions” rapping, “In my city they treat me like Gillie in Philly.”
Once again, today is May 18, or, 518 Day. The 518 is a huge region of New York State, an area code established in 1947 and covering 24 counties.
The 518 area code extends from the Mohawk Valley just west of Utica, to the Vermont and Massachusetts borders, and north to Canada, and includes Albany, Schenectady, Troy, Glens Falls, Plattsburgh and the entire North Country, Saranac Lake and the entire High Peaks region, plus Schoharie, Catskill, Hunter and Caroga Lake. A huge area of the state, and combined with the new 838 area code, covers more than 2 million New Yorkers!
Among this wide swath of the state is a great deal of music, from bands to venues, festivals to promoters, concert series and figures in the scene, the 518 has a rich amount of music, so much that we thought a great way to celebrate 518 Day (May 18), was to come up with a list of Five Hundred Eighteen things that make the 518 a great place for music.
But we wanted to keep this digestible, and in working with our friends at 518scene.com, we came up with at least a start – 51.8 (rounded up to 52) music venues, bands, promoters, series and more, that make the 518 so great. We started in May 2023 with our list and that of 518scene, and for 2024, we’ve got 52 more things that make the 518 great.
Read our list below and 518scene’s list for 2024 here.
1. 518 Day of Giving
Let’s start with a great way to give back – 518 Day of Giving is the first online, regional fundraiser of its kind on May 18, 2024. The day intends to harness the power of community to connect nonprofit organizations with new and existing donors, while raising funds and awareness for the nonprofit community. Collectively, participating nonprofits hope to raise $518,000 to continue to provide vital supports and services throughout the Capital Region and beyond. Donate to a variety of organizations here.
2. The Erie Canal Song
You likely learned this in grade school if you grew up anywhere near the Mohawk or Hudson Rivers. Originally titled “Low Bridge, Everybody Down,” the song by Thomas S. Allen recounts the history of the Erie Canal, and was first published in 1913 when the New York Barge Canal replaced the Erie Canal. While the sheet music cover shows a boy on a mule ducking down to pass under a bridge, the reference to “low bridge” in the song actually refers to travelers who would typically ride on top of the boats and need to lower their heads to allow for safe passage. Taking a geographic trip from Buffalo to Albany, the final lyrics of the song are “Low bridge, everybody down, Low bridge, I’ve got the finest mule in town. She’s a perfect, perfect lady, and she blushes like a gal. If she hears you sing about her and the Erie Canal.”
Stay tuned for a full history on the song this summer, ahead of next year’s Bicentennial of the Erie Canal’s opening!
3. Jive Hive Live
Located in Albany, Jive Hive Live is an intimate, state of the art, private space built for live recording and video livestream productions. Their mission is to provide a resource of both people and “things” that will enable talented musicians, artists and other creatives to share their work with “the world” in a professional manner typically out of reach. The goal is to build a self sustaining community that is “better together” vs the typical “zero sum game” environment.
4. Jazz on Jay
If you like jazz, then Jay Street in Schenectady is the place to be Thursday’s from 12-130pm at the corner of Jay Street and State Street for free outdoor concerts and enjoy some of the best live jazz acts in the 518.
5. WEQX
Founded in November 1984 by Brooks Brown as an independent radio station, WEQX may be stationed in Vermont at Mount Equinox (hence the call sign EQX), but the broadcast reach hits much of the 518, and as far east as New Hampshire. EQX is a sponsor of numerous live music events and presents a variety of concerts in the Capital Region. Entering their 40th year, WEQX is a true independent radio station, highlighting artists from across the 518 and New England with shows such as EQXposure, Going Underground, Jam n’ Toast and many more.
6. Starlite Music Theatre
Here’s a throwback for folks in Colonie. The Starlite Music Theatre was a theatre in the round, seating 3,000 attendees around a center stage, originally opening in 1958. Designed for theater as well as live music and comedy, the venue hosted the lives of Rodney Dangerfield, Three Dog Night, George Carlin, “Weird Al” Yankovic, B.B. King, The Beach Boys, Gallagher and many more. The located was closed in the early 2000s and demolished in 2012, making way for what was to be the headquarters of Ayco, but seems to be an open lot currently.
photo by Sara Ayers
7. Sawyer Fredericks
An Americana singer-songwriter from Glen in Montgomery County, Sawyer Fredericks, began playing local farmers markets, open mics, and iconic New York venues at the age of 13. With his deep, beyond-his-years original lyrics and melodies, soulful vocals, and powerful live performances, Sawyer seemed an unlikely match for reality tv, but he won over audiences to win season 8 of NBC’s The Voice. He continues to perform around the Capital Region and elsewhere.
8. Skyway Collective
The Skyway Collective started in the summer of 2023 as an idea to utilize Albany’s newly built Skyway. The idea: get together some DJ’s, decks, and speakers, and have a pop-up hang. Word quickly got out about the Monday night weekly pop-up dubbed Minimal Monday’s, gaining a social media stamp of approval from Mayor Kathy Sheehan, and the idea started to blossom into a community. With its swift growth and high demand, Steve Mink (SM INK), Connor Heid (Cauzee), Kellen Hagen and Devan Collins (DRC) began discussing where to go from there, and during one Monday night brainstorm on the skyway, “The Skyway Collective“ was born. The Collective has since evolved into its own production company with its signature “Skyway sound” system which the team utilizes to host club events and hold residencies around the capital district. As The Collective will soon be celebrate their 1st anniversary in June, they continue to make strides build the house/techno scene in upstate NY.
9. Washington Park Lakehouse
Located in Albany’s Washington Park, this Spanish Revival structure was designed by Albany architect J. Russell White and has been a feature of the park for many years, although not part of the original scope of the park, which opened in 1873. The interior of the lakehouse is detailed and has terrazzo floors and wrought-iron chandeliers. The outdoor amphitheater area is used for live music during the annual Tulip Festival, and hosts Park Playhouse theatrical performances during the summer. The Lake House is situated on 90 acres of rolling urban parkland, and the landscape architecture was inspired by Fredrick Law Olmsted.
10. Bogies
A staple of the Albany club scene in the 1990s and opened in the mid-1970s, Bogies was a beloved hole in the wall venue located at 297 Ontario Street that closed its doors for good in 2015, after ample efforts to revive the dive. Small, packed for shows, Bogies was THE place for underground music in Albany throughout its tenure and featured bands such as State Champs, Blink 182, PVRIS, Black Flag, Ice Nine Kills, The Replacements and dozens of metal bands in its latter years, plus other bands so briefly tenured, they’re lost to history. RIP Bogies.
11. The Eddies
The Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards Show and the Hall of Fame was created in 2019 by Sal Prizio and Jim Murphy of Proctors Theatre, to shine a light on the incredible talent of the local music scene, both past and present. Hundreds of individuals, groups and companies working in the artistic, technical, managerial, media and support areas of the Capital Region music industry are nominated every year, with an annual award show, typically in April. The Eddies are a part of Proctors Collaborative.
12. Dad Fest
Dad Fest is the City of Albany’s celebration of all the fantastic fathers out there, featuring a Classic Car Show, great food, music and vendors. Dad Fest is a chance for the whole family to kick back and enjoy an early summer afternoon at one of the Capital Region’s most picturesque parks. You don’t have to be a dad to enjoy Dad Fest as this event offers a little fun for everyone.
13. Eastbound Jesus
Eastbound Jesus was formed almost in 2010 in Greenwich, NY, a group of friends who clicked when writing music. They slowly picked up shows, dubbed their genre ‘Northern Rock’ and proceeded from there. The band has an intense local following in the 518, with packed shows across the region.
14. WAMC
WAMC/Northeast Public Radio is a regional public radio network serving parts of seven northeastern states, stretching across the 518 of New York, as well as the 315 and points south, they also cover events and news as far as Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, New Jersey, New Hampshire and Pennsylvania. Stations and translators are in twenty-nine locations throughout the region, with offices and studios in Albany broadcasting 24 hours a day with a wide variety of publicly funded programming. NYS Music is a proud sponsor of WAMC.
15. Universal Preservation Hall
Located at 25 Washington Street in Saratoga Springs, Universal Preservation Hall (UPH) is a year-round arts and community events venue managed by Proctors Collaborative. With seating up to 700, this venue is one of the few ‘theatres in the round’ still in existence. The building opened February 29, 2020 after being restored to be a performance hall and rental venue, and despite the timing, it was a success starting with an exhibit of Rock n Roll pinball machines, as well as concerts and the Capital Region Music Music Hall of Fame induction each year.
A view of Universal Preservation Hall is seen during the media tour and ribbon cutting of the new concert hall in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., on Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (Jenn March, Special to the Times Union)
16. Washington County Fair
Located in Greenwich, what has come to be called the Washington County Fair was first held in 1890 and named the “Morganza Fair” serving as many fairs did, to exhibit and sell sheep and cattle. Now, more than 130 years later, the annual event offers the full Washington County experience including live entertainment, 4-H displays, foods you can only find at the fair, and your favorite fair rides. Get your tickets here.
17. Lake George Art Project Wednesdays in the Park
The Lake George Art Project sponsors a Wednesday evening concert series in Shepards Park, and for 2024 they’ll be held on July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 and August 7, 14, 21, and 28 with a special Saturday show on June 29. This year’s lineup features The E-block, Angelina Valente and many others. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the night by the Queen of American Lakes!
18. Blind Owl Band
Based in Saranac Lake, The Blind Owl Band is a bluegrass/country/folk-rock band that formed in 2011 and includes Arthur Buezo (guitar, vocals), Christian Cardiello (bass), James Ford (banjo, vocals), and Eric Munley, (mandolin, vocals), who is now the proprietor of the Waterhole. The group met while studying at Paul Smith’s College and trace their name to an incident while performing at Paul Smith’s, when a saw-whet owl flew into a window. The owl got up and stared at the band for a moment before flying away, and with a saw-whet owl nicknamed a ‘blind owl’, the name stuck. Blind Owl Band now perform intermittently around the state, but bring a feisty sound and crowd with them in each performance.
19. Albany Civic Theatre
With an intent to provide education and training in acting, directing, writing, speech, staging, producing, reviewing, and other aspects of the dramatic arts, Albany Civic Theatre has a unique role in the 518, as they aim to encourage and foster community interest and participation in the dramatic arts through the non-profit sponsorship of plays, lectures, publications, workshops, study groups, drama libraries and related activities. Check out their upcoming season here.
20. Ophelia’s on Broadway
Replacing Parish Public House in Albany is Ophelia’s on Broadway, which boasts a return-to-roots feel, including an homage to Red Square (the name prior to Parish), a fresh menu and a perfect location for late night shows or continuing the party after Alive at 5 this summer.
21. WEXT
The Capital District has a great listener-supported roots and rock radio station in WEXT, with an eclectic, unique and diverse lineup of music. 97.7 FM and 106.1 WEXT from WMHT Educational Telecommunications with a goal to provide listeners with a unique listening experience with music that knows no boundary of genre. WEXT focuses on emerging artists, plus classic songs that regular radio has forgotten and especially music from the Local 518.
22. Park Theater Foundation
The Park Theater Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the Glens Falls community by providing a venue for quality and affordable entertainment and educational opportunities in the performing arts. NYS Music is a proud sponsor of the Park Theater Foundation.
23. Glass Pony
Self-described as a high-energy psychedelic groove circus, Glass Pony has been turning heads and becoming a staple of the 518 since 2018. The four-piece band comprised of Chanda Dewey (drums), Eddie Hotaling (guitar, lead vocals), Jeff Picarazzi (bass), and Greg Pittz (lead guitar) combine for a continually unique and entertaining experience. Glass Pony live performances incorporate danceable grooves, interesting set lists, and creative and compelling improvisation with a wide variety of influences from 60’s and 70’s rock, 80’s post-punk and 90’s jamband. Catch them soon – check out their upcoming shows here.
24. John Brown song
Songs are often measured by their ability to stand the test of time. “John Brown’s Body” is one of those songs that has held up even into the present day. Although the tune has gone by many names and many iterations over the centuries, the hymn turned revolutionary anthem retains its status as one of the most memorable songs of the Civil War. Read more on the history of this Civil War era song from Ryan Bieber here.
25. SingleCut North Clifton Park
With a tap room in Astoria, as well as in Clifton Park, the delicious beer from SingleCut Tap Room features music from a variety of bands, with food trucks located outside for full enjoyment of tasty brews and music made right in the 518. Check out upcoming events here.
26. Blotto
What more can be said about arguably the biggest band to come from Albany? Blotto combined new wave and soul with R&B and comedic themes, and sported pseudonyms on recordings and on stage. You’d hear them on Dr. Demento‘s radio show in the early 80s, and the band was featured on MTV on the first day of broadcast, with the video for “I Wanna Be a Lifeguard” becoming infamous, rated by some as the worst music of all time, but featuring numerous locations across the 518 – watch for yourself and see how many you can spot!
Ed note: new area code 838 is popping up in the 518, and we welcome a challenge to find Eight Hundred Thirty Eight things that make this region the best for music, but let’s take this one area code at a time.
Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater – previously known as St. Joseph’s Health Ampitheater – has begun to announce their 2024 summer lineup of shows, which so far includes Hozier, Hank Williams Jr., Lainey Wilson, Jordan Davis, Lynyrd Skynyrd, ZZ Top and more.
Originally called Lakeview Amphitheatre when first opened in 2015, the naming rights later changed to St. Joseph’s Health in 2023, and then to what it is today– Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater, just down the road from the New York State Fairgrounds.
Though St. Joseph no longer has sole rights to the venue, they continue to support music and emphasize its importance in society, stating, “Music is a healing art, and as we stated when we took on this sponsorship in 2018, we firmly believe it is an important part of the culture of our diverse community and our healing ministry.”
May 21- Hozier : Unreal Unearth Tour
Indie artist Hozier will play at Syracuse’s Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview on May 21. The singer and songwriter released his third full-length album, Unreal Unearth, on August 18 which saw an impressive success worldwide. Having made a name for himself with the prolific track “Take Me To Church” over a decade ago, Hozier has expanded his music ability and reach to new audiences. The Unreal Unearth Tour has been a huge success throughout the world, having played shows for nearly 250,000 fans and boasting an entirely live performance.
Hozier Performs Live with Jools Holland
May 22 – Judas Priest : Invincible Shield Tour
After releasing their 19th studio album Invincible Shield, the British heavy metal band Judas Priest will perform at the Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview as part of their Invincible Shield Tour. Originally formed in Birmingham in 1969, Judas Priest consists of Rob Halford, Ian Hill, Glenn Tipton, Scott Travis and Richie Faulkner.
June 21 – Lainey Wilson
Another Louisiana native Lainey Wilson has made a name for herself because of her vocal and acting skills. She was the leading female nominee and winner at the 2023 ACM awards with Female Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year, Visual Media and Musical Event of the Year, and had previously won 2022’s Female Vocalist and New Artist of the Year. She landed her first No. 1 with her renowned song, “Things A Man Oughta Know.” With her rockstar-like stage presence and raw talent, she’s sure to impress all who attend her 2024 Country’s Cool Again North American Tour.
June 26 – James Taylor and His All-Star Band
Legendary singer and songwriter James Taylor and his All-Star band will perform at the Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview Syracuse on June 26 as part of their tour.
Taylor is known for his covers, such as “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)” and “Handy Man”, as well as originals such as “Sweet Baby James”. The singer is also known for playing the leading role in Monte Hellman’s 1971 film Two-Lane Blacktop.
As a recording and touring artist, James is known for touching fans with his warm baritone voice and distinctive style of guitar-playing for more than 50 years, while setting a precedent to which countless young musicians have aspired. Since the release of his self-titled debut album in 1968, he has sold more than 100 million albums during the course of his successful songwriting and performing career, earning gold, platinum, and multi-platinum awards.
June 28 – Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss: Outlaw Fest.
Musician Willie Nelson is bringing his iconic Outlaw Music Festival to Darien Lake this summer. The packed festival will have a show at the Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview Syracuse on June 28 and will feature iconic artists like Bob Dylan, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss.
Willie Nelson, who was born in Texas during the Great Depression, has a career that spans the majority of his life. His debut studio album, …And Then I Wrote, was released in 1962, catapulting him into a successful career.
July 11 – Jason Aldean – Highway Desperado Tour
After a successful 40-date run in 2023, country star Jason Aldean will continue the Highway Desperado Tour in the summer of 2024 and will stop in Syracuse at the Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview on July 11. Aldean recently released his 11th studio album on November 3 to huge success. The 14-track record includes hit singles such as “Try That In A Small Town” and “Let Your Boys Be Country.” The latter includes a brand new music video featuring guest appearances by Aldean’s young son and daughter, and focuses on the simplicity and nature of rural childhood life.
Louisiana native Jordan Davis is known for his collaboration with Luke Bryan in 2021 with “Buy Dirt.” He now resides in Nashville, showcasing his growth as an artist in his “Damn Good Time” world tour. He took “Buy Dirt” and won Song of the Year in 2022 via the Country Music Association Awards, and only continues to grow as a musician.
July 24 – Santana and Counting Crows: Oneness Tour
Legendary guitarist Santana and Grammy-nominated band Counting Crows will perform at the Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview on July 24 as part of their “Oneness” tour that they announced earlier this spring.
Santana and Counting Crows promises to deliver a passionate, high-energy, and classic hits from their catalogs. Carlos Santana will provide his legendary guitar playing, while the Counting Crows get everyone jiving and singing along.
The two visionary artists’ tour will combine their minds and talents to surely prove and put on a spectacle show on July 24.
July 26 – Dan + Shay : Heartbreak On The Map Tour
The Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview Syracuse will also see country duo Dan + Shay on July 26. Dan + Shay’s mark on country music continues to grow with the release of their highly anticipated studio album, Bigger Houses in 2023.
In 2021, the duo became the first and only artist to win a Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance 3x consecutively since the category’s inception. The reigning Favorite Country Duo or Group winners claimed a 3rd consecutive win for the category at the American Music Awards, where they had swept their categories in 2020, becoming the first country artist ever to win Collaboration of the Year.
July 31 – Train and REO Speedwagon – Summer Road Trip
The legendary hitmakers REO Speedwagon and Train announced earlier that they will be teaming up for the hottest co-headlining tour of the summer. Together with REO Speedwagon’s extensive collection of timeless classics and Train’s critically acclaimed catalog of global hits, the diamond-selling bands will embark on the Summer Road Trip 2024 Tour, promising an unforgettable evening of music, high energy, and fun that will appeal to all age groups. The bands will perform at the Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview Syracuse on July 31.
August 3 – Xscape & SWV : The Queens of R&B Tour
Following a social media teaser that sparked intense excitement among fans, the legendary groups XSCAPE and SWV have reunited for “The Queens of R&B” tour with support from MÝA, Total, and 702. When sharing the tour announcement, XSCAPE and SWV shared that “The Queens Of R&B” tour is a testament to the power of what can be accomplished when women come together with respect, admiration and undeniable talent. It is a celebration of passion, power, resilience and unstoppable ability to exceed expectations.
Their highly anticipated tour will be an unforgettable experience filled with timeless R&B music and stellar performances that are set to captivate audiences across the nation.
August 15 – ZZ Top & Lynyrd Skynyrd
ZZ Top, known for their single, “Sharp Dressed Man”, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, known for their critically-acclaimed album Pronounced‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd,’ have put their musical talents together for an unforgettable show performing across the United States, with one stop at the Amphitheater in August. You can’t miss their raw rock and roll music, sure to bring everyone to their feet.
August 24 – Hank Williams Jr.
Country Rock artist Hank Williams, Jr. first started his career by covering his father’s songs and emulating his style. At the age of 14, Williams, Jr. made his television debut in an Ed Sullivan Show episode from December 1963, where he sang a number of songs that were connected to his father. He also appeared as a guest star on Shindig later that year. In 1964, he made his recording debut with “Long Gone Lonesome Blues”, one of his father’s many classic songs. Hank Williams Jr.’s line up will also include the rock band Whiskey Myers and Ray Fulcher, a songwriter based in Harlem.
August 29 – Walker Hayes: Same Drunk Tour
Country singer Walker Hayes will perform at the Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview Syracuse on August 29 as part of his anticipated “Same Drunk” tour.
Hayes released the EP Country Stuff on June, 2021. Its single “Fancy Like” went viral on TikTok, peaking at number 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 on the Hot Country Songs chart, making it Hayes’ highest-charting release to date.
September 4 – Rob Zombie and Alice Cooper
Hard rock icon Rob Zombie will embark on his Freaks On Parade Tour by performing at the Syracuse stage on Sept. 4. Joining Rob on tour is the Detroit native Alice Cooper who delights both the crowd and his devoted followers with his unique brand of rock psycho-drama. Cooper is known for his wide range inspirations from vaudeville, garage rock, and horror films, and his ensemble puts on a theatrical production complete with electric chairs, guillotines, fake blood, and boa constrictors. Rob Zombie and Alice Cooper’s tour will also be accompanied by Al Jourgensen’s band Ministry and Richard Patrick’s band Filter.
September 6 – Hootie & the Blowfish – Summer Camp with Trucks Tour
Hootie and the Blowfish will return to the road in 2024 on their Summer Camp With Trucks Tour with special guests Collective Soul and Edwin McCain. Visiting about 43 cities across the U.S. and Canada, this will mark Hootie and the Blowfish’s first full tour since 2019.
September 7 – Pitbull: Party After Dark Tour
Pitbull – Grandstands Day 3
Global superstar Pitbull will perform at the Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater on Sept. 7 as part of his anticipated upcoming Party After Dark Tour. The tour plans to hit over 25 cities across the U.S. with special guest T-Pain and openers SiriusXM Globalization DJ’S. Lil Jon is also set to make appearances at select markets. Mr. Worldwide is set to deliver another incredibly dynamic tour with an electrifying mix of his biggest career-spanning hits of instantly recognizable smashes and surprises.
September 13 – Killer Queen with Special Guest Voyage
Killer Queen, a tribute band from London who has been doing this for more than 25 years will hit the Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater on Sept. 13 with special guest Voyage. Fans and critics alike have praised Voyage as the best Journey tribute band for their terrifyingly accurate rendition of the Journey catalog. Voyage takes their fans back to the ’80s era when the timeless music of Journey dominated the airwaves. The collective ability of these five guys has elevated the meaning of a tribute to a whole new level.
September 24 – Nathaniel Rateliff & TNS and My Morning Jacket
Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats and My Morning Jacket will co-headline their Eye to Eye Tour on September 24 in Syracuse at the Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview.
My Morning Jacket was hailed by The New York Times as “the kings of expand-your-mind, religious-experience rock”. The group started out as misfits from the South and have since grown to become one of the most beloved bands of their generation. Additionally, they continue to excite audiences all over the world with their hypnotic songcraft and dynamic live performances.
Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, born from Denver rock clubs, have grown to be a major force in modern rock ‘n’ roll. With platinum and gold-certified records under their belt, they successfully combine critically acclaimed records with high-energy live performances.
However, it’s not just about the music—Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, My Morning Jacket, and the nonprofit REVERB are collaborating to address the climate crisis and reduce the environmental impact of their tour. Fans can enjoy a fun-filled evening of dancing while contributing to a worthy cause. Fans can check out reverb.org for more information.
Additionally, the tour will provide a dynamic experience by having both bands play equal-length sets, switching up the order of performance at each show. Fans can lose themselves with live music at the Eye to Eye Tour this September in Syracuse.
Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater summer lineup will also include a performance by Train and REO Speedwagon on July 31 who will be performing as part of their huge 43-concert Summer Road Trip Tour. Other announced lineups include the infamous comedians Impractical Jokers set to take the stage on August 23, and Hootie & the Blowfish who will perform on July 31 as part of their Summer Camp With Trucks Tour.
For full performance and lineup listings or to purchase tickets, fans can visit here.
Just three days after the release of her debut record When It All Goes Down, Sarah King received the news that she has thyroid cancer. After being told she’d need multiple surgeries beginning in July, she decided to schedule the first following the Grand Point North Festival so she could give her fans a proper “temporary farewell,” with her only full band show of the year.
Her first LP, When It All Goes Down, was released on March 29, 2024, to praise from everyone from American Songwriter to Brooklyn Vegan, The Bluegrass Situation, Glide Magazine, and many more.
Before her hiatus from performing Sarah King, who is based in Vermont, will appear at a handful of festivals, including the Wildflower Festival in Richardson, TX, on May 18 – 19. These will be her first performances since receiving the news.
“While I’m heartbroken not to have the year I’d hoped with this album, the songs will still be there for me when my voice and my body are healthy enough to take to the stage again,” says King, pointing out that while any cancer diagnosis is extremely frightening, having surgery so close to her vocal nerves causes additional anxiety.
King creates thought-provoking, versatile Americana music – touching on real-life emotions and situations, while drawing on classic folk-blues themes, balancing songs about the devil and booze with hard-won moments of reflection and acceptance.
The title track of When It All Goes Down was inspired by doctors not listening to women, seeming like she wrote the song to her future self, somehow knowing that she’d need to “stand up to the devil.”
The album is a testament to King’s strength, reflecting on when she lost her mother, first husband, and dog. Songs like the slow-burning “Stronger Than You’ll Ever Know” find her deftly navigating the hidden spaces between darkness and the light.
“My stories are folk stories,” says Sarah King. “Of the people, for the people, by the people (I’m a person). These are songs for folks who’ve lived through some sh*t and want some music that doesn’t shy away from that.”
For more information and to listen to When It All Goes Down, visit here.
The South Street Seaport Museum and Gaia Music Collective have announced the first event of Blue Mind Fest: a one-day choir event set to take place tomorrow. This will be the first of a series of performances throughout the year that focus on the impact that water has on our lives. These programs that will run throughout the year promise to focus on education, well-being, and sustainability.
The Gaia Music Collective, based in Brooklyn, is dedicated to creating accessible spaces for music making. In accordance with the theme, singers of all levels are invited to sing the song “Water” by singer songwriter Tyla. In light of Gaia’s dedication to inclusivity, singers of all levels are welcome.
This first event of Blue Mind Fest will begin with a rehearsal in the hull of the 1885 ship Wavertree. As the experience progresses, the choir will move to the main deck to perform. The South Street Seaport Museum features collections of art, galleries, and artifacts preserving New York’s history as a port city. The Seaport Museum offers excellent opportunities to learn about New York’s history as a port city. PIX11 News explored the South Seaport Museum and discussed its mission with the museum president.
Proceeds from Blue Mind Fest will be split between the Gaia Music Collective and the South Street Seaport. Tickets start at $1, but a donation of $11-$30 is suggested. This event will be held on Saturday, May 18, from 3-6 PM. Advanced registration is required, and a beverage is included with the ticket.
The House passed the Transparency in Charges for Key Events Ticketing Act on Wednesday to increase consumer price transparency with great praise from organizations such as NIVA and Fix The Tix Coalition.
According to NBC, the TICKET Act would require sellers to list the ticket cost to buyers, including fees. They would also have to disclose whether the tickets they are selling are not in their possession and provide refunds if an event is canceled. It was first introduced by Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., in June 2023.
The act is one of several recent efforts to curb unfair practices in the ticketing industry. A group of bipartisan senators also introduced the Fans First Act in December, increasing cost transparency and preventing resellers from listing tickets at high prices. Since the Eras Tour incident in 2022, lawmakers have sought to address consumer discontent toward the ticketing industry.
The National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) and the Fix The Tix Coalition applauded the act’s passage. They are calling on the Senate to pass S. 3457, the Fans First Act, which has additional provisions to ban fake tickets, to ensure that deceptive imagery on websites does not trick consumers, to increase mandatory reporting of illegal BOTS, to require clear itemizations of ticket prices and fees at the beginning, and to provide meaningful enforcement of these provisions.
We commend House passage of H.R. 3950, the TICKET Act, which will help to improve the ticket buying experience for fans, to protect the livelihoods of artists, and to preserve independent venues across the nation. Not only has the U.S. House of Representatives moved to protect consumers from predatory and deceptive ticketing practices, but states across the country, including Arizona, Maryland, Minnesota and Nevada, have recently banned, without exception, speculative tickets on a bipartisan basis. We call on Congress to do the same, to build on the act and adopt strong, enforceable, comprehensive ticketing reform legislation like the Fans First Act.
Stephen Parker, Executive Director of the National Independent Venue Association.
Fix The Tix Coalition also applauds the act saying, “The bill provides transparency with all-in pricing and takes important steps to combat speculative tickets and deceptive websites. We urge the Senate to build on this progress by strengthening these provisions, increasing enforcement of the BOTS Act, and providing additional avenues of enforcement to combat predatory and deceptive ticketing practices. The live entertainment ecosystem is counting on Congress to act in the best interests of fans to restore transparency and trust to our countryâs broken ticketing system.”
JazzFest White Plains is back with performances by GRAMMY-winning stars and a food festival from Sept. 11 to 15.
The five-day extravaganza highlights 18 captivating live performances spread throughout downtown White Plains. The artists range from emerging talents to world-renowned artists, including four GRAMMY Award-winners and nominees.
Headlining Friday night of this year’s festival is Nicole Zuraitis, the 2024 GRAMMY Award-winning jazz singer-songwriter and pianist known for her unparalleled expressiveness and lyrical prowess. Headlining on Saturday is the Vijay Iyer Trio featuring Tyshawn Sorey and Linda May Han Oh, hailed by National Public Radio as “truly astonishing” and the New York Times as “the great new jazz piano trio.”
Nicole Zuraitis.
“We’re thrilled to bring such exceptional talent to JazzFest White Plains this year,” said Kathleen Reckling, ArtsWestchester COO. “From soul-stirring vocals to innovative instrumental compositions, this festival promises to be a celebration of jazz in all its forms.” Several performances are free, including all the noon and Sunday shows.
In addition to the stellar performances, the White Plains Jazz & Food Festival closes the weekend on Sept. 15 from 12:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Mamaroneck Avenue between Main Street and Martine Avenue. The food festival will feature a fusion of delectable cuisines and captivating jazz melodies, creating a sensory experience for all ages.
Tickets for JazzFest White Plains are now available for purchase online. For more information about the festival’s full lineup, visit here.
This summer, Canandaigua’s Constellation Brands-Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center (CMAC), will feature 18 shows starting in May through August. The CMAC 2024 roster features artists spanning from rock to country, welcoming fans of all genres.
Grammy-nominated folk-rock band, The Avett Brothers, are kicking off CMAC’s 2024 season with their summer tour for the band’s brand new self-titled album released on May 17. Joining them as a guest is country and bluegrass artist Sierra Ferrell.
Zach Brown Band- June 2 at 6:30 PM
Over the past 22 years as a band, the multi-platinum southern rock group led by Zac Brown have had five consecutive #1 albums on Billboard’s Country Albums Chart and won three GRAMMY awards including Best New Artist, Best Country Collaboration with Vocals, and Best Country Album. After releasing their new live album From The Road, Vol. 1: Covers and two new singles, the band will bring plenty of music, new and old, to CMAC.
Warren Haynes- June 9 at 7 PM
Former member of The Allman Brothers Band, The Dead, and founding member of Gov’t Mule, Warren Haynes is bringing the Now Is The Time tour to CMAC this summer featuring the Warren Haynes Band and The Dreams and Songs Symphonic Experience
Goose is a five-piece jam band hailing from Connecticut with clear influences from Phish and The Grateful Dead. Taking their 2024 summer tour on the road to support their latest album Ted Tapes 2024, the band will bring a slew of energetic music to Canandaigua.
Carrie Underwood- June 21 at 7:30 PM
Returning to the stage after last summer’s U.S. arena tour, multi-faceted country star Carrie Underwood, known for songs such as “Before He Cheats” and “Jesus Take the Wheel,” is making a stop at CMAC while on a break from her Las Vegas residency REFLECTION.
Nine-time GRAMMY winner Brandi Carlile returns to CMAC during a small tour of East Coast shows in June. She will be joined by her long-time collaborators, The Hanseroth Twins, who have played alongside her throughout her career. In recent years, she has worked closely with legends such as Joni Mitchell, Tanya Tucker, and Elton John.
Norah Jones- July 5 at 7:30 PM
Embarking on her North America Visions Tour 2024, nine-time GRAMMY winner, Norah Jones, is coming to CMAC in support of her new album Visions, released in March. With her, she brings the legendary soul singer Mavis Staples as her guest.
Jason Mraz & The Superband- July 10 at 7:30 PM
Singer-songwriter Jason Mraz, whose 2008 song “I’m Yours” put him on the radar, is continuing his tour, The Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride this summer, supporting his 2023 album of the same name. The alt-pop band Ripe will join the tour as a guest.
Sam Hunt- August 15 at 6:30 PM
Chart-topping country artist Sam Hunt, who can be recognized by his 2017 hit “Body Like A Back Road” is returning to the CMAC lineup while on tour for his new EP, Locked Up. He will be accompanied at CMAC by special guests and fellow country musicians Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line and Dalton Dover.
The 12-piece rock and soul group led by husband and wife Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi are returning to CMAC on their Deuces Wild 2024 tour, where country singer-songwriter Margo Price will join as their guest performer.
Tickets and more information on these events can be found on CMACâs website.
