NYS Music 2024

Tag: Long Island

  • Pop Punk Legends New Found Glory to Celebrate Iconic Album Catalyst with Upcoming Tour

    New Found Glory announced their upcoming tour Catalyst 20 Years Later this week, which stops in Buffalo, and Huntington, Long Island. The Paramount in Huntington gets a visit from the band August 21 and Buffalo Riverworks August 25.

    New Found Glory is inviting fans to join them in celebrating 20 years of their 2004 album Catalyst. The two-leg tour sees them playing the iconic record in full including hits like “All Downhill From Here”, “Truth Of My Youth”, and more. Also on the tour, the band is set to perform a number of other songs from throughout their discography. The show also features special guests Sincere Engineer.

    New Found Glory brings the hardcore energy and razor-sharp riffage everywhere they go. Their style of music blends melodic, angsty vocals and upbeat, youthful themes, with the hardcore, punchy and fast-paced instrumentation. The 2000’s powerhouse has influenced many bands, and left a lasting impact on listeners of the genre to this day.

    New Found Glory Upcoming Tour Dates

    8/16 – Orlando, FL @ House of Blues

    8/17 – Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade

    8/18 – Raleigh, NC @ The Ritz

    8/19 – Silver Spring, MD @ The Fillmore

    8/21 – Huntington, NY @ The Paramount

    8/22 – Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore

    8/23 – Boston, MA @ Roadrunner

    8/24 – Asbury Park, NJ @ Stone Pony Summer Stage

    8/25 – Buffalo, NY @ Buffalo Riverworks

    8/27 – Detroit, MI@ The Fillmore

    8/28 – Columbus, OH @ Kemba Live

    8/29 – Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theater

    8/30 – St. Louis, MO @ The Pageant

    9/1 – Nashville, TN @ Marathon Music Works

    10/11 – Dallas, TX @ House of Blues

    10/13 – Tempe, AZ @ The Marquee

    10/15 – San Diego, CA @ The Observatory North Park

    10/16 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern

    10/17 – Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues

    10/18 – San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic

    10/19 – Las Vegas, NV @ When We Were Young Festival

    10/20 – Las Vegas, NV @ When We Were Young Festival

    10/22 – Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot

    10/23 – Denver, CO @ Mission Ballroom

    This is not a show you want to miss. General on sale begins this Friday, March 15. For more information on New Found Glory, please visit www.newfoundglory.com.

  • Paul Shaffer to Induct Stephen Schwartz into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame

    Musician Paul Shaffer is emceeing a concert in honor of Stephen Schwartz’ induction into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF). Stephen Schwartz is best known for being the lyricist and composer of “Wicked,” “Godspell,” and “Pippin.”

    Stephen Schwartz Paul shaffer

    The ceremony takes place March 23 at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame headquarters in Stony Brook. Stephen Schwartz has written and composed various musical works for both Broadway plays and Hollywood films. Schwartz is a native of Long Island and has grown up in both NYC and Long Island.

    The ceremony will be followed by an hour-and-a-half concert featuring performances from Schartz’s musicals. The music concert to follow the induction will be emceed by musician Paul Shaffer, with whom he worked early in his career. Schwartz and Shaffer will perform alongside musicians from the musical “Godspell” that include Rick Shutter, Doug Quinn and Steve Manes.

    “Long Island has proven to be especially fertile ground for producing major talents in the fields of music and entertainment. The list of names is long and impressive.  It’s a great honor for me to be recognized as being a part of that amazing tradition.”

    Stephen Schwartz

    Stephen’s acclaimed career spanned over 50 years, and he consistently composed works that lasted in the hearts of many. Paul Shaffer will be alongside Schwartz as the induction ceremony ensues. What better way to honor the Long Island talent than induction into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame.

    Several Broadway performers will be in attendance to honor Stephen as well. Teal Wicks, Carrie St. Louise, Dale Soules, Alysia Velez, Sam Simahk and DeMarius Copes are featured to honor Schwartz.

    Tickets for the induction and concert event are available for sale on LIMEHOF’s website, limusichalloffame.org. Come see Stephen Schwartz get honored.

  • Swoosh God Releases New Project & Music Video for ‘My Life My Dream’

    Valley Stream native Swoosh God hopes to check off all boxes with the release of his new project Still Swoosh. Moreover, the “sexy drill” artist has also released the music video for his catchy anthem “My Life My Dream” featuring fellow Long Island native and “sexy drill” innovator Chow Lee and produced by hip hop mainstay Harry Fraud.

    Swoosh God releases new project and album
    Swoosh God releases his comeback project “Still Swoosh”

    For his part, Swoosh God hopes this marks the start of his second wind. After all, the Valley Stream native originally made waves during the “Soundcloud” era of hip hop, and created a virtual cult-following. Notably, Playboy Carti inked the cultural shape shifter to his label imprint at Interscope Records. 

    After departing his deal with Carti, Swoosh got back on his independent grind, showing why he attracted such attention after and labeled a future star. After all, his discography includes collaborations with Lil Uzi Vert, Juicy J, Rich The Kid, Famous Dex, Matt Ox, a placement on the NBA2K Soundtrack. Now, Swoosh God is back with Still Swoosh and a music video for “My Life My Dream.”

    Still Swoosh

    Swoosh God’s latest project is a succinct 8 song and 19 minutes including “My Life My Dream” and another uptempo Chow Lee feature “Two Of Us.” Aided by a pleasing contemporary sped-up cadence, Swoosh interpolates old-school pop samples and sped-up drums to get his effortless flows off, with the production often resembling a jersey club mix. Nonetheless, the unique New York swagger and style adds a certain flair that has been dubbed “sexy drill,” a voluptuous counter to it nefarious predecessor.

  • From Ashes To New Announce Nationwide Tour, 4 Stops in New York

    Alt-metal vanguards From Ashes To New today, announce a headlining US tour this spring titled, “The Blackout Tour Pt. 2.” The tour will see support from California-based rockers Point North in addition to special guests including heart-hop rapper Ekoh, emo rapper Phix, and hip-hop/rock artist elijah.

    The tour sees four dates in New York State. Albany, Huntington, NYC, and Rochester will expect a stop from the acts. From Ashes To New has a diverse sound compiled of hard rock, hip hop, electronic and alternative. The band draws massive influence from the soundscape of the 90s and 2000s.

    “We are beyond excited to unveil our highly anticipated Blackout Tour Part 2. The response to Part 1 was so overwhelmingly positive that we knew we had to bring our most exciting show yet to new cities that missed out on the first round. Once again, we are pulling all the stops and bringing along our brothers in Point North, Ekoh, Phix, and Elijah to make each show a night to remember. Lastly, this tour is not just about music; it’s about creating unforgettable experiences and connecting with fans old and new. Get ready to join us on this incredible journey!”

    Vocalist Danny Case

    The tour sees From Ashes to New perform their classic hits as well as new music, including potent new track “Barely Breathing.” The tour kicks off in late May and extends to late July, with one final show well into September.

    FROM ASHES TO NEW – “THE BLACKOUT TOUR PT. 2”

    with Point North, Ekoh, Phix and elijah

    4/30     Albany, NY – Empire Live 

    5/1       Huntington, NY – The Paramount

    5/2       Baltimore, MD – Baltimore Soundstage 

    5/4       New Haven, CT – Toad’s Place

    5/5       Philadelphia, PA – TLA 

    5/6       New York, NY – The Gramercy Theatre 

    5/8       Myrtle Beach, SC – House of Blues

    5/9       Orlando, FL – House of Blues *

    5/10     Mobile, AL – Soul Kitchen ~

    5/12     Atlanta, GA – Buckhead Theatre 

    5/13     Chattanooga, TN – The Signal

    5/15     Jacksonville, NC – Hooligans ~

    5/16     Greensboro, NC – Hangar 1819 ~

    5/18     Rochester, NY – Water St. Music Hall ~

    5/19     Bethlehem, PA – Wind Creek Event Center

    5/20     Cleveland, OH – House of Blues

    5/21     Madison, WI – The Sylvee 

    5/23     Kansas City, MO – Uptown Theatre ~

    5/24     Des Moines, IA – Val Air Ballroom 

    5/25     Davenport, IA – Capitol Theatre 

    5/27     Houston, TX – House of Blues 

    5/28     Austin, TX – Emo’s 

    5/29     Dallas, TX – The Echo Lounge & Music Hall *

    5/30     San Antonio, TX – The Aztec Theater

    6/2       Wichita, KS – Cotillion Ballroom ~

    6/3       Springfield, MO – Gillioz ~

    6/5       Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren 

    6/6       San Diego, CA – House of Blues 

    6/7       Las Vegas, NV – House of Blues 

    6/8       Santa Ana, CA – Observatory OC 

    6/11     Salt Lake City, UT – The Depot 

    6/12     Denver, CO – Summit 

    6/13     Lincoln, NE – Bourbon Theatre ~

    7/19     Caddott, WI – Rock Fest ^ ~

    7/20     Grand Rapids, MI – Upheaval Fest ^ ~

    7/21     Mansfield, OH – Inkcarceration ^ ~

    9/27     Louisville, KY – Louder Than Life ^ ~

    ^ festival appearance (FATN only)

    * no Point North

    ~ non-Live Nation date

    Tickets and From Ashes To New VIP packages will be available starting with an artist presale beginning today at 12 P.M. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on sale starting on Friday, March 1 at 10 A.M. via From Ashes To New’s website HERE. 

  • Swoosh God Tabs Chow Lee for ‘My Life My Dream’ With Project On the Way

    Two of New York’s upcoming stars join forces as Swoosh God and Chow Lee team-up for “My Life My Dream,” offering a taste into New York City’s new wave. The Harry Fraud produced record meshes well with the drill mold of production that has taken youthful contemporary music by storm. Featuring a looping sample from rock band Staind and their hit-record “So Far Away,” Swoosh God and Chow Lee take turns riding the beat.

    Swoosh God and Chow Lee "My Life My Dream" cover art
    Swoosh God and Chow Lee team-up for “My Life My Dream.”

    About Swoosh God

    For his part, Swoosh God hopes this marks the start of his second wind. After all, the Valley Stream native originally made waves during the “Soundcloud” era of hip hop, and created a virtual cult-following. Notably, Playboy Carti inked the cultural shape shifter to his label imprint at Interscope Records.

    After departing his deal with Carti, Swoosh got back on his independent grind and continued to show why he was so heavily sought after and labeled a future star; including collaborations with Lil Uzi Vert, Juicy J, Rich The Kid, Famous Dex, Matt Ox, a placement on the NBA2K Soundtrack. Now, Swoosh is back with “My Life My Dream,” and a forthcoming project, Still Swoosh, set for release on March 1.

    About Chow Lee

    Fellow Long Island native Chow Lee continues to climb the metaphorical ladder. With his trademark sped-up flow, he adds an undeniable swagger to “My Life My Dream” that brings the song full circle. Moreover, Chow has seen his stock rise within the last year, performing at industry showcases while linking up with other upcoming talent like Swoosh God and Cash Cobain.

  • The Suicide Disease Release Latest Single “Constellations”

    New York Grunge band The Suicide Disease has released their latest single, “Constellations” this past Valentine’s Day. The ballad was released under Zodhiac Records and was produced by Ricky Armellino of Ice Nine Kills and KJ Strock.

    Constellations The Suicide Disease

    The Suicide Disease creates alternative, grungy, pop-rock style music. The release of “Constellations” exemplifies each of these subgenres. The song is a love letter written to loved ones who have passed or been distanced.

    “Constellations” has quite the emotional, yearning-for-past-joy kind of feel. They miss the people they once held close and that is apparent throughout the song from beginning to end.

    The guitar tones are somber, but still pop-punky. The song definitely gets you to feel a ball of emotion in your stomach, whether you relate to the message or not.

    The band wears their hearts on their sleeves, and that is one thing that allows for raw, passionate music like this. The group is from the south shore of Long Island, and is gaining popularity across the country.

    The Suicide Disease make melodic metal music that offers solace to people dealing with loss. The group understands firsthand the effects of their namesake, the chronic pain disorder disease Trigeminal Neuralgia.

    “This was a sad song for me to write. The first line really says it all, ‘take my stars away with daylight’s arc’. As we try to communicate to those that are no longer with us in the stars at night time it’s inevitable that daylight will return – then reality sets in and we must come face-to-face with the fact that they are no longer with us.”

    Lead Singer Jay Francis

    The group exists in their own genre but have sound pieces of New Order and The Cure. The Suicide Disease recorded their first demo on a cassette tape in 2021 and drove around with a boombox in hopes that they could share it with the right people. The four piece was discovered at a show by Steve Feinberg, who took on managing the band and shared with Ricky Armellino to produce.

    To listen to “Constellations” on all platforms, click here.

  • Great South Bay Music Festival is Back with Another Stellar Lineup for This Summer

    Long Island’s largest and longest running four-day music and art festival is back with another groovy lineup. The Great South Bay Music Festival will host their 16th anniversary at Shorefront Park in Patchogue, NY. The festival is sponsored by Voodoo Ranger.

    The Great South Bay Music Festival in 2019

    The elite festival will take place July 18 through 21 and will host a wide variety of artists of many genres. Contemporary and classic rock, jazz, jam, blues, Americana, ska, reggae, alternative and funk will be represented this summer with over 60 featured artists.

    Also included in the festival are several draft beer and wine tents, along with a food court of diverse selections. A craft market will also be showcased. The fest will present four very different days of music, with a lineup of headline artists alongside cutting-edge rising stars.

    Great South Bay Music Festival

    Featured artists include blues-rock legend Joe Bonamassa, Jim Messina of Buffalo Springfield, and phenom guitarist Brandon “Taz” Niederauer. Saturday is Jam Day and continuing the Grateful Dead Live Concert Experience as no one else can, is Dark Star Orchestra. Newly added acts include Start Making Sense, Aqua Cherry, Funkin A, Enrose, Rob Europe, Chris Ruben Band, Lex Grey & Urban Pioneers, Stanton Anderson Band, Imposters, Drop The 4, Chloe Halpin, & IRIEspect.

    The Disco Biscuits support with their brand of “Trancefusion”, bridging the gap between electronic music and jam bands. Also appearing is Asbury Park New Jersey’s famed quintet: Dogs In A Pile, Dopapod, psychedelic indie-rocker Karina Rykman and more.

    Closing out the Great South Bay Music Festival is legendary rock group YES. Accompanying the Sunday stage is Jethro Tull guitarist Martin Barre, and Talking Heads Tribute: Start Making Sense.

    Great South Bay Music Festival

    Festival Times:

    Thursday, July 18: Doors are at 3:00 pm, fest goes till 10pm.

    Friday, July 19: Doors are at 3:00PM, music till 11pm,

    Saturday July 20.: Doors are at 1:00pm, music till 11pm,

    Sunday July 21: Doors are at 2:00pm with performances till 10pm.

    Ticket price includes all concerts and entertainment. Food and beverages not included. Children under 10 are free. For more information on The Great South Bay Music Festival and tickets, click here.

  • Coachella 2024 Lineup Includes 5 NY Artists, Lana Del Ray to Headline

    Coachella’s 2024 lineup will include five artists from New York between all three days of both weekends. Among these artists includes Lana Del Rey, who also headlines the festival along with Tyler the Creator and Doja Cat.

    Lana Del Rey, born in Manhattan, will be the opening performer on Friday, April 12 and 19. The Bronx native Ice-Spice and Brooklyn-based indie-pop band The Drums will perform at the festival on Saturday, April 13 and 20. Performers on Coachella’s final nights include Brooklyn-born Bebe Rexha and rock band Taking Back Sunday from Long Island.

    Cover of Lana Del Rey’s latest album, Did You Know There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd. Credit: YouTube Music.

    Grammy-nominated singer Lana Del Rey was born in Manhattan, and raised in Northern New York State. In 2005, Del Rey moved to New York City to pursue a career in the Music Industry. Her self-titled debut studio album was released in 2010, and her second studio album, Born to Die (2012), put the New York native on the map. Since then, Del Rey has released a total of nine studio albums, most recently 2023’s Did You Know There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd, and has been nominated for and won several awards. Currently, the singer is up for four Grammy Awards at the 2024 Ceremony, including Album of the Year and Best Alternative Music Album for her latest release.

    Ice Spice during an Interview discussing a collaboration with Nicki Minaj. Credit: Billboard.

    Born and raised in the Bronx, rapper Ice Spice is a young and emerging artist in the music industry, and this year will be her first time performing at the Coachella festival. Her debut extended play, Like, was released in 2023, and her debut studio album, Y2K, is due for release this year. The rapper also collaborated with English singer and record producer on the song “Boy’s a Liar.”

    Jonathan Pierce, founder and last remaining member of The Drums. Credit: Bandcamp

    Indie pop band The Drums was initially formed in 2008, by Jonathan Pierce and Jacob Graham as Goat Explosion, and later added Adam Kessler and Connor Hanwick. Graham exited the band in 2016, and since then Pierce has operated The Drums as a solo project. The Drums’ self-titled debut album was released in 2010. Since then, The Drums’ has released six albums, most recently Jonny (2023.)

    Cover of Bebe Rexha’s third studio album, Bebe. Credit: beberexha.com

    Brooklyn native Bebe Rexha first found success as a songwriter, with credits on Eminem’s single “The Monster” as well as other songs for Shinee, Selena Gomez, and Nick Jonas, among others. Her debut studio album, Expectations, was released in 2018, and was preceded by its lead single “I’m a Mess.” One week before the release of Expectation, Rexha performed live 2018 Summer Jam Music Festival, the same day on which “I’m a Mess” was released. Since then, she has released three albums, most recently 2023’s Bebe, and has been nominated for and won several awards.

    The Members of Taking Back Sunday, from left to right: Mark O’Connell, Jesse Lachey, Shaun Cooper, and Adam Lazzara

    Taking Back Sunday was formed in November 1999 by guitarists Eddie Reyes and Jesse Lachey in the Long Island town of Amityville. The band is currently made up of four members, John Nolan (lead guitar, keyboards, vocals,) Adam Lazzara (lead vocals,) Mark O’Connell (drums, percussion,) and Shaun Cooper (bass guitar.) Their debut studio album, Tell All Your Friends, was released in 2002, and their eighth and most recent work, 152 (2023,) was their first studio in seven years since 2016’s Tidal Wave.

    Visit the Coachella website for tickets. Read the full 2024 Coachella Music and Arts Festival lineup below, which includes five artists from New York.

    Friday, April 12 and 19:

    Lana Del Rey

    Adriatique

    Anotr

    Anti Up

    Ateez

    Ateez

    Ben Sterling

    Bizarrap

    Black Country, New Road

    Blond:ish

    Brittany Howard

    Chappell Roan

    Chloe

    Cimafunk

    Cloonee

    Clown Core

    Deftones

    Eartheater

    Everything Always

    Faye Webster

    Gorgon City

    Innellea

    Justice

    Ken Carson

    KEN CARSON

    Kevin De Vries x Kolsch

    Keyspan

    Kokoroko

    L’imperatrice

    Late Night Drive Home

    Lil Uzi Vert

    Lovejoy

    Mall Grab

    Miss Monique

    Narrow Head

    Neil Frances

    Peggy Gou

    Peso Pluma

    Sabrina Carpenter

    Sid Sriram

    Skepta

    Skin On Skin

    Son Rompe Pera

    Steve Angello

    Suki Waterhouse

    The Beths

    The Japanese House

    TInashe

    Tyla

    Upchuck

    Yoasobi

    Young Miko

    Saturday, April 13 and 20:

    Bar Italia

    Bleachers

    Blur

    Blxst

    Brutalismus 3000

    Charlotte De Witte Presents Overdrive

    Depresion Sonora

    Destroy Lonely

    Dom Dolla

    Erika De Casier

    Flo

    Gesaffelstein

    Girl Ultra

    Grimes

    Hatsune Miku

    Ice Spice

    Isoknock

    Jon Batiste

    Jungle

    Kenya Grace

    Kevin Abstract

    Kevin Kaarl

    Kimonos

    Le Sserafim

    Mahmut Orhan

    Mandy Indiana

    Maz

    Militarie Gun

    Oneohtrix Point Never

    Orbital

    Palaca

    Palaca

    Patrick Mason

    Purple Disco Machine

    Rate

    Rebuke

    Reinier Zonneveld

    Saint Levant

    Santa Fe Klan

    Skream & Benga

    Spinall

    Sublime

    The Adicts

    The Aquabats

    The Blessed Madonna

    The Drums

    The Last Dinner Party

    The Red Pears

    Thuy

    Tyler the Creator

    Will Clare

    Young Fathers

    Âme X Marcel Dettmann

    Sunday, April 14 and 21:

    88 Rising Futures

    Adam Ten X Mita Gami

    Anyma

    AP Dhillion

    Artbat

    Atarashii Gakko!

    Barry Can’t Swim

    BB Trickz

    Bebe Rexha

    Bicep Presents Chroma

    Boy Harsher

    Carin Leon

    Carlita

    Coi Leray

    DJ Seinfeld

    DJ Snake

    Eddie Zuko

    Eli & Fur

    Feeble Little Horse

    Flight Facilities

    Folamour

    Hermanos Gutierrez

    J Balvin

    Jhene Aiko

    JJUUJJUU

    Jockstrap

    John Summit

    Joplyn

    Khruangbin

    Latin Mafia

    Lil Yachty

    Ludmilla

    Mdou Moctar

    Nav

    Olivia Dean

    Renee Rapp

    Taking Back Sunday

    Tems

    The Rose

    Tita Lau

    Two Shell

    Victoria Monet

    YG Marley

  • Dave Matthews Band Tour Heads to SPAC and Jones Beach This Summer

    GRAMMY award-winning rock band Dave Matthews Band has announced their 2024 US Summer headline tour. The band will stop in Saratoga Springs for a show at SPAC’s Broadview Stage. Along with this, the band plans to stop in Long Island at the Northwell Health sponsored Jones Beach Theater.

    Dave Matthews Band jones beach SPAC tour

    The tour is set to kick off on May 22 in Tampa, Florida, and make its way to NY around July 5. Dave Matthews Band will be introducing new sustainability measures as part of its “On The Road To Zero Waste” initiative. This will be introduced as a part of this summer’s tour.

    Dave Matthews Band jones beach SPAC tour
    Dave Matthews live at Madison Square Garden

    An online ticket presale for members of the DMB Warehouse Fan Association is underway now at Dave Matthews Warehouse. 

    General on sale for tickets begins on February 16, at 10 am local time. For the complete itinerary, visit davematthewsband.com.

    Dave Matthews 2024 US Summer Tour Dates

    5/22 – Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

    5/24 – West Palm Beach, FL – iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre

    5/25 – West Palm Beach, FL – iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre

    5/28 – Jacksonville, FL – Daily’s Place Amphitheater                     

    5/29 – Jacksonville, FL – Daily’s Place Amphitheater

    5/31 – The Woodlands, TX – Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

    6/1 – Dallas, TX – Dos Equis Pavilion

    6/12 – Alpharetta, GA – Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

    6/14 – Raleigh, NC – Coastal Credit Union Music Park

    6/15 – Virginia Beach, VA – Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater

    6/21 – East Troy, WI – Alpine Valley Music Theatre

    6/22 – East Troy, WI – Alpine Valley Music Theatre

    6/25 – Cuyahoga Falls, OH – Blossom Music Center

    6/26 – Clarkston, MI – Pine Knob Music Theatre

    6/28 – Noblesville, IN – Ruoff Music Center

    6/29 – Noblesville, IN  – Ruoff Music Center

    7/5 – Saratoga Springs, NY – Broadview Stage at SPAC

    7/6 – Saratoga Springs, NY – Broadview Stage at SPAC

    7/9 – Wantagh, NY – Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater

    7/10 – Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center

    7/12 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center

    7/13 – Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live

    7/16 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion

    7/17 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion

    7/19 – Camden, NJ – Freedom Mortgage Pavilion

    7/20 – Camden, NJ – Freedom Mortgage Pavilion

    8/23 – Greenwood Village, CO – Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre

    8/24 – Greenwood Village, CO – Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre

    8/27 – Bend, OR  – Hayden Homes Amphitheater

    8/30 – George, WA – The Gorge Amphitheatre

    8/31 – George, WA – The Gorge Amphitheatre

    9/1 – George, WA – The Gorge Amphitheatre

  • Billy Joel’s Spectacular New Year’s Eve Debut at UBS Arena: A Long Island Homecoming

    As the clock struck midnight and confetti filled the air, Billy Joel made history with his unforgettable inaugural performance at UBS Arena on New Year’s Eve 2023. Returning to Long Island for his first concert since 2018, Joel’s momentous show marked not only a thrilling start to the new year but also a significant milestone in his illustrious career.

    At 74, Joel’s energy and musical prowess remained as captivating as ever. Having announced the conclusion of his decade-long residency at Madison Square Garden in July 2024, this performance became a cherished moment for fans, signaling the beginning of the end of an era. Joel’s decision to conclude the residency after his 150th show to prioritize family time underscored the significance of each live appearance, making the UBS Arena debut a cherished affair for both the legendary artist and his dedicated audience.

    Billy Joel took the stage at 10:30 pm, kicking off the night with a series of enthralling performances even before the anticipated countdown to midnight. The evening commenced with the captivating Regina Spektor, setting an electrifying atmosphere and paving the way for Joel’s grand entrance. The timing was impeccable, aligning perfectly with the audience’s anticipation for the transition into the new year. As the iconic countdown from Times Square illuminated the arena, Joel seamlessly serenaded the crowd with the timeless tunes of “Auld Lang Syne,” swiftly followed by a heartfelt rendition of “All You Need Is Love.” These musical choices forged a sense of togetherness, uniting thousands in a poignant moment of celebration and unity.

    Among the unforgettable moments of the evening was Joel’s surprising cover of “Start Me Up,” infusing his timeless style into the classic Rolling Stones hit. Later on, Joel shifted gears to perform “Souvenir” marking his return to the song since 2018.

    At the heart of his New Year’s Eve performance at Elmont’s UBS Arena, Billy Joel paused to share a glimpse into his future plans while addressing the audience. With his trademark wit, the Piano Man reassured fans about his continued relationship with Long Island. “Just because I’m selling that house doesn’t mean I’m leaving Long Island. I still have a house on Long Island,” Joel affirmed, referring to his longtime property in the village of Centre Island. “I’m just gonna spend a little more time in Florida like old Jewish guys from Long Island do.”

    Billy was accompanied by a stellar ensemble of incredibly talented musicians, each adding their unique touch to the musical extravaganza. Mark Rivera on saxophone, Tommy Byrnes on guitar, Crystal Taliefero handling percussion and lending her powerful vocals in a stunning rendition of “River Deep,” Dave Rosenthal on keyboards and serving as the musical director, Andy Cichon on bass, Chuck Burgi on drums, and Mike Delguidice on rhythm guitar and backing vocals—these individuals formed the backbone of the performance. The seamless synergy and years of collaboration between Joel and his bandmates were unmistakable, creating an electric atmosphere that ensured an unforgettable night of music and cherished memories for the audience.

    The encore was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring anthems like “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” “Uptown Girl,” “It’s Still Rock and Roll,” “Big Shot,” and “You May Be Right.” Each song carried its own resonance, sparking sing-alongs and an electric atmosphere that reverberated throughout the arena.

    Joel’s decision to conclude the night with this powerhouse ensemble of hits was a testament to his commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience. The energy, passion, and sheer joy exuded by Joel on stage were infectious, leaving a lasting impression on Long Island and setting the bar high for future performances at UBS Arena.

    As the clock struck 1 am, bringing an end to the performance, the arena echoed with cheers, applause, and a shared sense of gratitude for being part of a momentous occasion. Billy Joel’s New Year’s Eve debut at UBS Arena will undoubtedly be etched into the memories of all who were fortunate enough to witness this historic event, marking a new chapter in the legacy of one of music’s most enduring icons.

    Billy Joel – UBS Arena – Sunday, December 31, 2023

    Setlist: My Life, Pressure, Everybody Loves You Now, The Downeaster Alexa, Start Me Up, An Innocent Man, The Lion Sleeps Tonight, Barbara Ann, The Longest Time, Big Man On Mulberry Street, Movin Out, Half A Mile Away, Vienna, Don’t Ask Me Why, Allentown, New York State of Mind, The River of Dreams, Whole Lotta Love, Auld lang syne, All You Need Is Love, Only the Good Die Young, Nessun dorma, Scenes From an Italian Restaurant, Souvenir, Piano Man
    Encore: We Didn’t Start the Fire, Uptown Girl, It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me, Big Shot, You May Be Right