Sunday, December 30, 2012

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICAL SITE " Chapter 65- GREAT WOMEN WHO CONTRIBUTED TO OUR CNY MUSIC HISTORY (UPDATED 1/8/ 2023)

Through the years their have been many great women who have contributed to our Syracuse & Central New York music success. Here is a listing by name (A-Z).....We have spend many-many hours in compiling this list......but there may be a few that slipped our memory. Please feel free to send their names our way.


Julie Abbott, Giovanna Albaroni, Sue Alexander, Lisa Alibbrandi, Sharon Allen, Sarah Anderson, Ava Andrews, Anna Anslow, Andrea Asprelli, Laura Austin, Liz Ayres, JoAnne Bakeman, Ann Barnes, Debbie Barsha, Nanci (Hammond) Basch, Shannon Bayless, Beth Beer, Monica Behan, MacKenzie Bell, Terry Bender, Rebecca Bennett, Holly Berlin, Rose Bernthal, Jessica Bertini, Janet Best, Sandy Bigtree, Bigtree Sisters (Norma, Jean, Sandy), Jodi Bilotti,  Sally Bloss, Vera Bradshaw, Laura Brazak, Julie Briggs, Ally Brown, Jessica Brown, Heather Brushell, Grenier Buchanan, Sera Bullis, Whitney Burisenok, Kay Miracle-Burke, Annie Burns, Jeanie Burns. Burns Sisters, Clare Byrnes,    

Kathy Cadley, Victoria Calendra, Christie Casciano, Jane Cassidy, Jen Catney, Diane Chappell, Nancy Christopher, Courtney Chivara, Erika Cieply, Kelly Clancy, Gayle Clark, Julie Elizabeth Clement, Kim Cleveland, C. Cole, Donna Colton, Judy Comer, Rita Condon, Cindy Lou Cordes, Mary Ann Corso, Libba Cotton, Ashley Cox, Julie Crawford, Arlene Crissan, Jane Curley, Danielle Curtis Sally Cutler, Dianna Cutri, Judy Czerwinski, Cherly D-Aprix, Judy D'Augustino, Holly Dagger, Heather Daley, Jennifer Davis, Lisa Davis, Anne Day, Mary Dawes, Emily Dean, Kate Ellen Dean, Leila Dean, Maria DeAngeles, Arlene Dee, Donna Dennihy, Annette DeSantis, Maria DeSantis, Erika DeSacio (Hobin), Patti Dillman, Louise Di Pace, Caroline Doctorow, Diane Doll, Brittany, Amy Groth Doan, Lisa Doyle, Danah Earley, Bailey Elmore, Julie Falatico, Robyn Fear, Sue Ferguson, Elizabeth Fern, Nikki Feroni, Kim Fetters, Kristina Fitzsimmons,Viola Flansburg, Debbie Foley, Karen Jo France, Karen Franklin, Aubrey Freeman, Liz Friedel, Blair Frodelius, Kimberly Frodelius, Marilyn Fuller, Cynde Fye (Fyore),

Diana Gardener, Melissa Gardiner, June Gardner, Anna Marie Genevese, Lisa Gentile, Jean Gerber,  Dianna Gibson, Kristen Gitler, Kaleena Goldsworthy, Kayleigh Goldsworthy, Kathy Goode, Julia Goodwin, Dani Gottuso, Joanne Greco, Maureen Green, Martha Grener, Mimi Griswold, Marica Hagan, Mary Haitz, Charlotte Hale, Nanci Hammond (Basch), Nancy Hammond, Patty Hammond, Sue Hanabraigh, Laura Hand, Moe Harrington, Kathyrn Hart, Eileen Heagerty, Amy Hebert, Tracey Heif, Kathy Henderson, Lisa Henderson, Maureen Henesey,  Loraine Heyman, Merylin Hubbard-Herr, Tori Higley, Sarah Hiltbrand,  Betty Hitchcock, Anna Hoffmann, Eva Hoffmann, Nancy Loraine Hoffmann, Nancy Hook, Mickey Hosek, Dottie Howe, Claudia Hoyser, Judy Hyman, Sydney Irving.

Patty Jackson, Diana Jacobs, Andrea Jarmon, Briana Jessie, Joanne Nix Jewett, Grace Jones, Jenny Jordon, Nancy Josephson, Carol Jason, Toni JoDamien, Sue, Karlik, Colleen Kattau, Wanda Kaye, Becky Keefe, Carolyn Kelly, Nancy Kelly, Kathy Kellish, Maura (Boudreau) Kennedy, Cathy Kensington, Doris Kenyon, Mary Kester, Kia, Diana Klipp, Susan Klocek, Lourella Knighton, Terry Kohut, Kate Kolb, Linda Kolsavary, Kristen Kopf, Holly Kost, Heather Kubacki, Chris Labatos, Jennifer (Jennie Lee) Lambert, Cathy Lamanna, Gina Lamparella, Kate Larson, Alexandra Lawn, Debbie Lawrence, Cary Lazarus, Betty Lee, Lisa Lee, Sandra Lee, Joanie Leeds, Donna Leigh, Kim Lembo, Letizia, Krista Lew, Little Vicki, Anna Marie Lopez- White, Bonnie Love, Erika Lovette, Wilma Lung, Jacki Luzzi, Angela Lynn, Cassidy Lynn, Alison MacLane, Molly MacMillan, Riley Mahan,  Judith Mallory, Carol Manglis, Myra Marcarean, Amy Mareiness, Donna Marra,  Linda Martin, Deb Mazurek, Pam McCann, Jacquin McCarthy, Gael McGear, Lauren McMahon, Valarie McNichol, Jo Meek, Breene Merritt, Susan Mersey, Michelle Michaels, Jen Middaugh, Melissa Midgely, Elise Miklish, Elaine Miller, Terry Mingle, Miss E, Alsha Mitchell, Wendy Mitchell, Patty Mondore, Suzie Monick, Kim Monroe, Andrea Moore, Heidi Morrisettem, Melissa Murphy, Robin Munn, Katrina Needham, Jacklyn Nesbit, Tra Nevins, Peggy Newell, Joey Nigro- Nilson, Mary Notarthomas, Jessica Novak, Liz Nowak,

Joanne O'Brien, Carol Thoryk-O'Leary, Trish Oney, Cathi Lee Otis, Andrea Owens, Beth Owens, Betty Page, Pat Page, Jen Parker, Kasie Patlove, Crissi Peppone, "Little Jan" Perolla, Joanne Troy Perry, Maureen Price, Sara Procopio, Terri Puglia, Penny Jo Pullus, Maureen Quigley,  Michelle Raehm, Missy Ragonese, Sue Raines, Wendy Ramsey, Danielle Rausa, Hanna Richardson, Julie Christine Richman, Angie Roarke,  Amy Robbins, Rebecca Roche, Jackie Robinson, Amanda Rogers, Lisa Romano, Gina Rose (Ryan), Kimberley Rossi, Maka Rouge, Kathy Rowe, Rachael Roy, Susan Royal, Jessica Rudy, Melissa Rushford, Kay Russell, Judy Rutkowski, Marcia Rutledge,

 Susan Sage (Bell), Ann Sarofeen, Carlyn Satkus, Kenna (KennaDee) Saunders, Kaaren Savoca, Jes Sheldon, Diane Shenandoah, Joanne Shenandoah, Diane Schnier, Katherine Scholl, Beth  Schultz, Emily Schuster, Melissa Burnette Sieling, Ellen Sethloff,  Coleen Sexton, Molly Shea, Margie Shears,  Tamarlee Shutt, Melissa Burnette Sieling, Carol Siegal, , Dottie Fowler Smith,  Emilee Smith, Kathlean Boyman Smith, Lorlet Smith, Taylor Smith, Sheey Snyder. Michelle Sobers, Bea Soloman, Joanne Sopreno, Suzie Southworth, Reyna Stagnaro, Amber Stassy, Jane Stebbins, Eleanor Steber, Kimberly Ann Stewart, Nancy Stewart, Mary Beth Stiles, Robyn Stockdale, Shane Storto, Zoe Mullan Stout, Liz Strodel, Kat Stump. Gael Sweeney, Jennifer Tefft, Rosalyn Thompson, Lisa Tokarz, Martha Trachtenberg, Janie Trecker, Sheela Tucker, Janet Turley, Kristin Turo.

Joan Vadeboncour, Jen Van Arsdale, D. Vedder, Kathrine Viscio, Donna Visconti, Anna Vogel, Meegan Voss, Elaine Wainer, Lauren Wallace, Danelle Dopp Walles, Ashley Walker, Doris Huntley Walsh, Mandy Walsh,  Mary Jane Walsh, Pat Walsh, Kat Walters, Kat Dooley-Wandersee, Stacey Waterman, Jacque Tara Washington, Megan Weber, Denise Weeks (Bush), Kathy Wenthen, Robin Wenzel, Sarah West, Anna Marie Lopez-White. Kristian Wilkinson, Vanessa Williams, Janice Wilson. Dana Wise, Shirley Woodcock-Kolb, Courtney Woods, Claudia Wool, Kate Yackel. Diane Zain. Jane Zell, Rebecca Zeller. Amy Zubieta.


Saturday, November 24, 2012

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" - CHAPTER # 63 - MARK BIALCZYK - HIS DEDICATION HAS NO BOUNDS

I picked up Thursday's Post Standard (Dec 22) and as always read Mark Bialczyk's music article. To my surprise, I found this great article about The History of Syracuse Album series that we started some 41 years ago. I would first like to thank Mark for the nice story about my 48 year quest to tell the wonder story of our Syracuse & Central New York's music history.  Secondly we could not have reached this point without professional & dedicated people like Mark and so many others. My enjoyment of researching, collecting recordings, writing bio's, finding photos and making many great friendships through the years has brought me great joy.

Ron Wray

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" - CHAPTER # 62, CLARK MUSIC (1859-2012) - SYRACUSE MUSIC ICON CLOSES IT DOORS

The Clark Music Company  first opened its So. Salina Street doors in Downtown Syracuse  back in 1859.  Its founder George W. Clark quickly  became Syracuse most popular sheet music retailer. Clarks' changed directions and became Syracuse first phonograph (record player) dealer. They quickly moved into instrumentation selling the cities first harp while becoming the areas most popular dealer of name brand pianos.

 In 1919, Clark Music was owned and manager by George's son, Melville Clark and located across from Dey Brothers in the 400 block of So. Salina Street on the site that would later become Sibleys Department store. Clark Music was then sold in 1960 to  Guido Singer.  It was his decision to relocated to its current location at 2922 Erie Blvd, East in 1966. At this time Clark Music expanded into high-end audio and video products while continuing selling the popular Steinway piano line.  Mr Singer sold his business in the 1980's to current owner Hugh Murphy.  Mr Murphy hired our friend Frank DeFonda (longtime drummer currently with Mark Doyle & the Maniacs) who in his 28 years at Clark Music rose into a corporate management position. Frank was quoted in the Post Standard newspaper as saying- "As of Sunday, August 26, Clark Music becomes history, one that I think many will miss."  There were many reasons for Clark Music's closing, one being that the property was sold to a developer and they would have to move to a different location.

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE - CHAPTER 61- QUESTION - RON, DURING YOUR 40+ YEARS IN SYRACUSE MUSIC, WHAT ARE YOUR TOP RONNIE JAMES DIO MOMENTS ?

Wow...That's a hard one as their were so many. But I'll give it a try.. They are in no order..

1. Meeting, spending time and had photos taken with Ronnie backstage during Deep Purple / ELF concert in Syracuse (Nov 9, 1972) as they first played songs from their new EPIC record album "ELF" and being blown away by their greatness. (Ronnie James Dio, "Rock" Feinstein, Gary Driscoll & Mickey Lee Soule)

2. Attending "Ronnie Dio Day" in Cortland, NY  where the City dedicated a street name in his honor "Dio Way" (Nov 15 1988). Stayed outside with Ronnie as he signed autographs for everyone attending (hundreds). Then going to his home as we honored this great man (with his parents, Mickey Lee Soule & "Rock" Feinstein)

3. Watching the spectacular live "Sacred Heart" show on stage in Syracuse (9/7/1985) and then presenting him with a plaque with dignitaries from the City of Cortland (Nick Mazza & John Kane) declaring "Ronnie Dio Day".

4. Being on-stage (also WOLF's Howie Castle) with Ronnie at the Black Sabbath Concert in Syracuse (5/14/1982) presenting him with a Syracuse Music Hall of Fame plaque.

5. Being with Ronnie at his Cortland home (1975) when he told me he was going with Ritchie Blackmore to form Rainbow.

6. Working with Jack Belle & Howie Castle to bring ELF to a Syracuse club for the first time. Note a sell out show at the Shoreline Club in Liverpool, NY on February 2, 1973. Also on the show was Bib n Tucker (Bob Perry, Dick Murphy, T. J. Condon) and Dove (Rick Cua. Dave Hanlon, Howie Bartolo & Larry Serafini),

7. Backstage with Ronnie and ELF when Jack Belle (Eastern Artist) brought  them to Syracuse's Landmark Theater with Fleetwood Mac on March 20,1973. Maybe one of ELF's greatest all-time performance.

8. My son Jeff & I seeing Ronnie perform for the last time with "Heaven & Hell" at the Albany, NY arena on May 14, 2007

9  Backstage for a concert at the Brookside Club in Dewitt (mid Jan 1975) with Ronnie & ELF celebrating the pre-release of the UK album "Carolina County Ball" called " LA 59" in the USA. Also attending- club owner-Rick Barry, Talent Agent- David Rezak, Concert Promoter- Jack Belle and Syracuse NewTimes photographer- Michael Davis.

10. Sandy Bigtree & I spending a great New Year Eve (12/31/1973) with Ronnie and the band at the Brookside Club.

11. Having the honor of working with Wendy Dio & NIJI Entertainment Group to continue honoring the musical legacy of this great man.

12. Through Ronnie meeting and having a 40-year friendship with David "Rock" Feinstein.


 Continue his legacy by having and being a committee member for Dio Day Cortland July 7, 2012

Friday, November 23, 2012

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIUC "OFFICIAL SITE" CHAPTER #60 - BUDDY GREALY BAND

During the summer of 1970, The Place (night club) opened at the corner of Rt 11 & Bear Road in North Syracuse. This "Hot Spot" featured the best in national and local talent plus the famed "Sunday Night Jam Sessions" that were opened to all musicians.

One of most popular groups of these jams were the Buddy Grealy Band. The band consisted of members Michael Coward, Dan Coward & Tom McNamara. The trio was originally from Springfield, Mass and was known as "Cin". With Cin break up in the fall of 1970 the Coward Brothers relocated to Central New York as suggested by former talent agent Mike Martineau. As the groups personal changed, John Quatrone replaced Danny Coward on drums, and bassist Tom McNamara spot was taken by Steve Fishman  (formerly of Oates). Lastly another former member of Oates, violinist Reinhard Straub was added during a jam at Saranac Lake, ny.

This lineup was the nucleus of the band "Wind", with Frank DeFonda (formerly of Fat Attic) becoming the new drummer. Wind soon became a huge campus attraction. In the meantime original drummer Danny Coward had joined Jukin Bone and when that band broke up in 1973, he joined his brother Mike, and Wind returned to the name the "Buddy Grealy Band". The brother's Coward, Straub and Fishman packed the Yellow Balloon and Brookside throughout 1974. After New Years 1975, Straub left to play with Rochester's "Wale" and a month later Gary Link of the David Werner Band replaced   Fishman. This final incarnation of Buddy Grealy parted ways in September 1975.               

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE: CHAPTER #59 - DO YOU REMEMBER - 1959- 1969 SYRACUSE HITS (UPDATED)

In 1959, Ivy Broadcasting purchased WOLF Radio AM-1490. Between 1959 & June, 1967 WOLF aired many songs that became extremely popular with Central New York listeners, but maybe not at the national level.. Here's a list of a few on them for your enjoyment.

PS-We also added a few from 1969 played by nighttime host Don Bombard (WCBS FM 's Bob Shannon).

1959
Fireballs                         Bulldog                                      Top Rank 2026
George Hamilton IV     Gee                                            ABC Par. # 10.028
Linda Laurie                  All Winter Long                         Laurie # 5015
Bobby Vinton                A Freshman & A Sophomore    Alpine # 59

1960
Dyna Sores                   Alley Oop                                  Rendezvous  120
Johnny Restivo            Two Crazy Kids                        RCA # 7818
Cliff Richard                Theme For a Dream                 ABC Par. #10195
The Shadows               Apache                                      ABC Par. 10138
Temptations                 Barbara                                    Gold Disc 3001

1961
 Jimmie Beaumont     Ev rybodys Cryin                     May 112
Glen Campbell            Brenda                                      Crest 1087
Kenny Dino                 Your Ma Said You Cried         Musicor 1013
Johnny Gibson           Midnight                                   Big Top  3088
Eden Kane                  We'll I Ask You                         London 1993
Johnny Rhythm        Wouldn't It Be Nice                  MGM 13043
Neil Scott                    Bobby                                         Portrait 102
Velvets                        Tonight Could Be The Night     Monument 45-441

1962
The Big Loser            This Is Monty                            Groove 580012
Sonny Gianatta        Last Blast of the Blasted Bugler   ABC Par 10308
Eddie Rambeau        Summertime Guy                      Swan 4112
The Shadows             Wonderful Land                        Atlantic 2146
Babs Tino                  Forgive Me                                 Kapp 472

1963
Johnny Cymbal         Teenage Heaven                       Kapp 524
Roller Coasters           Spanish Twist                           Delfi 4194
Tornadoes                  Life on Venus                            London 9599

1964
Pixies Three               442 Glenwood Avenue             Mercury 72208
Eddie Rambeau         Come Closer                             20th Century Fox 491
Johnny Tillotson        Judy, Judy, Judy                      Cadence 1437
Van Trevor                Satisfaction is Guaranteed        Corsican  138
Link Wray                 The Shadow Knows                   Swan 4171

1965
Darin D' Anna          We Were Lovers                        World Artist 1045s
The Novas                The Crusher                               Parrott 450045
The Remains            Why Do I Cry                            Epic 9783
The Remains            Once Before                               Epic 10001
Rockin Ramrods      Don't Fool w/ Fu Manchu         Claridge 301
Unit 4 Plus 2            You Never Fell in Love Like This Before - London 9761
Link Wray                Duces Wild                                  Swan 4187

1966
Barbarians               Moulty                                        Laurie 3326
Toni Basil                 I'm 28                                         A & M 791
Bent Bolt & Nuts     Mechanical Man                        MGM 13635
Creation                  Makin Time                                Planet 116
Gerry & Pacemakers   Without You                          Laurie 3337
Golliwogs                Fragile Child                               Scorpio 405
Riot Squad              How Is It Done                           Reprise 0457
Rubber Band          Let Love Come Between Us        Columbia 43796
Troggs                     From Home                                 Fontana F 1548
The Wailers             Out of Our Tree                          Etiquette 21
Link Wray               Ace of Spades                              Swan 4261

1967
Tim Rose                I'm Gonna Be Strong                     Columbia 43958
Bob Seger                Persecution Smith                          Cameo 465
Syndicate of Sound    Mary                                            Bell 666

1969
Cousins                 Take Your Love and Shove It        Shove Love  # 0069
(Note - Later issued under the name Kane's Cousins-  Shove Love 45-500)

Russell Morris       The Real Thing  Pts 1 &2                Diamond 263

Thursday, November 22, 2012

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" CHAPTER # 58 - MORE FAMOUS NAMES WHO PERFORMED OR SPOKE IN SYRACUSE 1906-1915

Jan 5-8 1908            James J. Corbett -World Boxing Champion   Bastable Theater
                                    (Staring in "The Bugler and the Lady")

Jan 25, 1908              Grand Vaudeville Show                            Grand Opera House
                                   W.C. Fields, Ed Wynn & Company

May 5, 1910              Billie Burke starring in "Mrs. Dot"             Wieting Opera House

Sept 10, 1910            John Philip Sousa Band - World Tour       Wieting Opera House

March 20-25, 1911   Ziegfeld Revue- Follies of 1910                Empire Theater
                                 (Staring Fanny Brice)

Sept 16, 1911            President William Howard Taft                  N.Y.S. Fair
                                  (President Taft speaks at Syr Chamber of Commerce)

Nov 8-14, 1911        Houdini                                                     Grand -Keith's
                                 (performs Milk Can & Straight jacket escapes)

Dec 30-31, 1913      George M. Cohan                                     Empire Theater
                                 (stars in his own play "Broadway Jones")

Nov 2, 1914             Eddie Foy and 7 Little Foys                      Grand Theater

June 13, 1915          Ty Cobb `                                                 Elks Field Days

Dec 13, 1915          Billy Sunday Spiritual Crusade   Empire Theater- Syr. Tabernacle

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" CHAPTER # 57 - MORE FAMOUS NAMES WHO PERFORMED OR SPOKE IN SYRACUSE BETWEEN 1916-1929

Oct 4-6, 1918     Howard Thurston                       Bastable Theater
                            "World Famous Magician"

Apr 7, 1919        Jack Dempsey Boxing Exhibition
                           (Fought two men in one day)

Dec 8, 1919       Ira Gershwin                              Empire Theater
                          (Appears in Half Past Eight"

June 13-16, 1920   Helen Keller                           B.F. Keiths

July 18-21, 1920    Will Rogers                            Savoy Theater
                              (Starred in Cupid the Cowpuncher)

Sept 19, 1920     John Phillip Sousa Band             Empire Theater

Apr 14, 1923      Rudolph Valentino & Wife         State Street Armory

Nov 4-9, 1923   Jack Benny (Vaudeville)              B.F. Keiths

Feb 21-23, 1924    4 Marx Brothers                    Wieting Opera House
                              (Groucho, Chico, Harpo, Zeppo)

June 17, 1924     Ringling Bros & Barnum Bailey Circus
                           "The Greatest Show on Earth"  cast of 1,600 w/ 43 elephants

Oct 26-30, 1925     Houdini                                Wieting Opera House
                               "$10,000 Challenge"

July 28, 1927      Charles Lindbergh                      Amboy Airport   
                           w/ Spirit of St. Louis'

Oct 4, 1927         Babe Ruth                                Temple Theater

Dec 2, 1927       Al Jolson                                   Wieting Opera House 
                          (in "Big Boy")

Feb 15, 1929     Ben Turpin / Vaudeville              B.F. Keiths

Mar 17-19, 1929  Kate Smith / Vaudeville           B.F. Keiths                

Sunday, November 11, 2012

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC- CHAPTER 56- BIGGEST SHOW OF STARS FOR 1957 RECEIVES RAVE REVIEW

September 17, 1957- The Herald Journal Newspaper entertainment section headline reads Fats Domino "Brings Down The House".  In what we would categorize as one of Syracuse all-time historic live stage shows Fats Domino, wowed the large crowd of 6.000+ in the War Memorial last night. The Star of the "Biggest Show of  1957": sponsored by Super Attractions, delighted his listeners with his lively tunes and atoned for his failure to appear for a performance here April 11, 1957 by swinging through a generous offering of tunes, while police and ushers ordered the aisle dancers back into their seats.

Fats playing keyboards sang "I'm in Love Again", "Blueberry Hill", "When My Dreamboat Comes Home", "Blue Monday" delighting all. The audience applauded every number on the three-hour show. Also appearing were the youthful Frankie Lymon (ABC's of Love,  I Want You to Be My Girl,  Out of the Cold and Goodie, Goodie) and blues singer Lavern Baker (Jim Dandy, Tweedly Dee, Humpty Dumpty Heart).

 The very popular Everly Brothers (Wake Up Little Suzie,  Bye, Bye Love, Should We Tell Him)  and Canadian heartthrob Paul Anka (Diana, Gumdrop).

Also performing  The Drifters, The Crickets w/ Buddy Holly (That'll Be The Day, Peggy Sue),  Bobby Parker, The Spaniels, The Bobbettes (Mr. Lee), Clyde McPhatter, Chuck Berry (School Days), Johnny & Joe (Over the Mountain), Tommy Brown (Crying), Bobby Parker and Harold Cromer- mc

The show started at 8:30 pm, Tickets were priced at $3.50, $3.00, $2.50, $2.00, $1.50

The performers stayed the night in Syracuse (including Buddy Holly Rm 963 ) at the Hotel Onondaga. They left the next day for a show in Rochester, NY

The Syracuse show was reviewed by  Peg Cram on Tuesday September  17, 1957.

Note- This was Buddy Holly's only Syracuse performance.

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

RONNIE JAMES DIO "STAND UP & SHOUT CANCER FUND GALA" HELD OCTOBER 31 (Halloween) AT AVALON IN HOLLYWOOD

The Ronnie James Dio "Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund's" second Awards Gala was held  (Halloween night) October 31 at the Avalon nightclub in Hollywood and included not only a live performance from Dio Disciples (Ripper Owens, Craig Goldy, Scott Warren, Simon Wright & Blorn Englen)  but an all-star list of special friends including- Doug Aldrich (Dio),  Joey Belladonna (Anthrax), Stephen Pearcy (Ratt), Glenn Hughes, Eddie Money, "Geezer" Butler (Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell) Joey Vera (Armored Saint) Billy Morrison, Frankie Banali, Michael Sweet & Oz Fox (Stryper) and Central New York's own David "Rock" Feinstein (The Rods) and others
 
Also one of this year's honorees was legendary "Hall of Fame" guitarist Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath & Heaven & Hell) who donated a one-of-a-kind Gibson Iommi SG prototype guitar to be signed by Tony and included in the event's silent auction.
 
The events Special Guest emcee was Eddie Trunk of VH1 Classics's "That Metal Shop"..

All.to honor Ronnie, our very special friends mighty cause.

Monday, October 22, 2012

NEW SYRACUSE & CNY CD'S HIT THE MARKET- RONNIE JAMES DIO, TODD HOBIN, KAT TALE, MISS E, LAST TRAIN OUT, MASTER THIEVES, ISREAL HAGAN & JACK " PENETRATOR" LIPTON, AUSTIN JIMMY MURPHY, BURNS SISTERS, STEVE COREY, DUSTY PASCAL, SOUL RISIN, HANNA RICHARDSON & PHIL FLANAGAN, MANDATE OF HEAVEN and the newest releases, Two Cds by "THE ACTION"..

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC - CHAPTER 55 - MORE FAMOUS NAMES THAT PERFORMED OR SPOKE IN SYRACUSE BETWEEN 1950-1956

Apr 15, 1950    Eddie Arnold - Civic Theater

June 1, 1950     Jack Benny - New York State Fair Coliseum

Sept 29-Oct 1, 1950   Louis "Satchimo" Armstrong - 3 Rivers Inn

Oct 27, 1950    Duke Ellington  - 3 Rivers Inn

Nov 17-19, 1950    Tony Bennett - 3 Rivers Inn

Mar 17, 1951    Clarabell the Clown  - Paramount Theater
                          (of the Howdy Doody TV Show)

June 12, 1951   Hank Williams Sr. - Civic Theater

Apr 25-26, 1952   Les Paul & Mary Ford  - Loews State Theater

Oct 8, 1952     President Harry Truman - NY Central Train Depot

Oct 31, 1952   Dean Martin & Jerry Lewis  - War Memorial

Aug 21, 1953   Mickey Rooney  - 3 Rivers Inn

Oct 12-16, 1954  Tommy & Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra  - Hotel Syracuse

Oct 11, 1955     Liberace  - War Memorial

Apr 16, 1956   Harry Bellafonte  - Loews State Theater

Apr 26, 1956   Bill Haley & The Comets  - War Memorial

Apr 23-25, 1956   Cab Calloway   Andre's Tic Toc Club

July 23-25, 1956   Charlton Heston - County Playhouse

Sept 24-29, 1956   Don Rickles  - 3 Rivers Inn

Nov 7, 1956    Hopalong Cassidy & Topper - War Memorial

Thursday, October 11, 2012

DAVID "ROCK" FEINSTEIN TO PERFORM AT DIO HALLOWEEN GALA IN HOLLYOOD, OCTOBER 31

Special guest David "Rock" Feinstein will perform his song "Metal Will Never Die" with Dio Disciples live on stage at the Ronnie James Dio "Stand Up And Shout" Cancer Fund Gala at the Avalon in Hollywood, Ca. on Halloween night October 31, 2012.
 
"Metal Will Never Die" is included on Ronnie's newest Cd "The Very Beast of Dio- Volume 2" released  on October 9 by Niji Entertainment.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC- CHAPTER 38 - THE WHO IN SYRACUSE 1969 & 1981 (Updated)


Today I read of Pete Townshend new biography being released and recently watched The WHO on the Palladia Music Television Network "BBC Electric Promo Live from the Roundhouse in London". It brought back many great memories of their shows in Syracuse.

November 15, 1969 at 8 PM at the War Memorial presented by Buffalo Festival. Tickets were $5.50. $4.50, $3.50. The Who arrived in Syracuse from Buffalo where they performed at Kleinhans Music Hall the evening before. Although not co-promoted by any radio station Rick Gary & I represented WOLF Radio and were lucky enough to meet and have photo taken backstage at the War Memorial with the band (Roger Daltrey, Peter Townshend, John Entwistle and Keith Moon). Note- We were sitting on the backstage stairs leading to their dressing room. Keith Moon was sitting directly behind me had his drum sticks extending out of each of my ears, laughing.  To my right Townshend, to left Entwistle and directly in front of me Daltrey. What a thrill. Rick had the honor of introducing The Who on stage to an excited Syracuse audience.  That evening they played I Can't Explain, Young Man Blues, Substitute and others before they performed the entire rock opera "Tommy". The WHO ended the evening with a four-song encore that included "Summertime Blues" that would be included in their album "Live At Leeds." Of course "Tommy" itself included may great songs including- Amazing Journey, See Me, Feel Me, Acid Queen, I'm Free and Pinball Wizard.

December 10, 1982 at the Carrier Dome- The Second part of their North American Tour. The second part of the "Its Hard Tour" started November 27 in Orlando, Florida and ended December 14 in Cleveland, Ohio. In a packed Syracuse Carrier Dome December 10, 1982, the WHO at 7 PM opened with  "My Generation" and followed with 23 others listed below. It long so here we go...listed in order. Tickets started at $15.00

My Generation, I Can't Explain,  Dangerous, Sister Disco, The Quiet One, It's Hard, Eminence Front, Behind Blue Eyes, Babe O'Riley, Doctor Jimmy, Boris the Spider, Drowned, Cry I f You Want, Who Are You, Pinball Wizard, See Me, Feel Me, Love Ain't for Keepin, 5:15,  Love, Reign O'ver Me, Long Live Rock, Won't Get Fooled Again. ending with encore songs Naked Eye, Squeeze Box and Twist and Shout.

PS. I noticed they are still selling backstage sticker  passes for Dec 10, 1982 show on eBay....

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC - CHAPTER # 54- Ten Famous Names Who Performed or Spoke in Syracuse between 1861-1905

Between 1861-1905 many famous names visited the Syracuse area making historic speeches or performing on stage. Here's ten names with dates and locations for your enjoyment.....

Feb 18, 1861   Abraham Lincoln - spoke in Vanderbilt Square in downtown Syracuse

Oct 16, 1869   Charles Dickens- Recited his readings at the Wieting Opera House

Dec  6, 1871    Mark Twain- Wieting Opera House

Jan 16, 1879    "Buffalo Bill' Cody- Wieting Opera House (again Feb 12, 1881)

July 24, 1881     P.T. Barnum- Brought his "Greatest Show on Earth" to Syracuse

Sept 4-9, 1888  John L. Sullivan (World Boxing Champion) Jacob Opera House

Jan 14, 1890     John Phillip Sousa Orchestra- Wieting Opera House (first of many)

Aug  5, 1895    "Buffalo Bill's" Wild West Show with Annie Oakley at Kirk Park

Nov 5, 1902     Eddie Foy and the Seven Little Foys - Wieting Opera House

Dec 19-21, 1905  Will Rogers - Vaudeville Act at Keiths Grand Theater

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC - CHAPTER 53 - WOLF RADIO SUPER DANCES 1975-1977

Here are the dates and lineups I remember from the three WOLF Radio Super Dances held between 1975-77.

February 14-15, 1975 - WOLF Radio Super Dance #1 held at the New York State Fair Center of Progress Building. Headliners- ELF w/ Ronnie James Dio and the James Gang (minus Joe Walsh).

The many others that performed include- The Alligators (Taddeo, Green, Pacella, Campbell etc), Bad Medicine (Rado, Corradino, Clarke, Johnson, Morton), Cross Creek (Cadley, Novak, Carr, Lawrence,  Hodgson, McIntyre), Crystal Blues Band,  Darlin  (McKenna, Moosebugger, Lutters, Whyte),  Deium & Erie Street, Harpy w/ Dave Porter, Todd Hobin, Kane (Harold Mantor, Lou & Mike Segreti), Mad Stop (Doug Moncrief & Shawn Hobin), Magic Fingers (Mark Hoffmann), Rocky and the Rollers,  Scarecrow Jones (Zogg, Lavancher, Sauer, Navin),  Timrick, Toots Revue (Hopkins, Kane, Jewell),  Walrus and the Stan Colella Orchestra.


February 13, 1976 - WOLF Radio Super Dance #2 held at the War Memorial.  C.R.A.C, Dean Brothers, Sandy Bigtree Band, Soda Ash Six, Stan Colella Orchestra & a few others. C.R.A.C. performed on live television (TV-5) at 11 pm

April 1-2, 1977- WOLF Radio Super Dance Marathon #3 for Musular Distrophy held at Onondaga Community College. AlecStar, The Alligators, Sandy Bigtree  Band, C.R.A.C., Mark Hoffmann, Gary Dunes & the DelTunes, Daybreak, Strombecker Lighthouse, Toe Jam and appearances by WOLF's Rick Gary & Ron Bee.

Friday, October 5, 2012

"ROCK" FEINSTEIN TRACK APPEARS ON NEW RONNIE JAMES DIO CD - THE VERY BEAST OF DIO - VOLUME 2" ARRIVES

David "Rock" Feinstein appears on the new Ronnie James Dio Cd "The Very Beast of Dio- Volume 2" that was just received from Niji Entertainment . Dio's new Cd includes the Dio / Feinstein track "Metal Will Never Die" recorded at Feinstein's Studio in Cortland, NY and mastered by Dio,  Feinstein & Wyn Davis at Total Access Recording in Redoindo Beach, Ca. "Metal Will Never Die" is Dio's final recording.
 

Unlike Volume 1, The Very Beast of Dio- Vol 2 will be a worldwide release, Volume 1 was released only in the USA & Canada.

The new "Very Beast of Dio- Volume 2" Cd can be ordered form the Dio "Official" Internet Website, Dio Facebook Fan page or from Amazon.com

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

DIO - "LAST IN LINE" - AUDIO FIDELITY 24K GOLD COMPACT DISC AVAILABLE SOON...

Audio Fidelity with release on October 16, the Ronnie James Dio 24K Gold compact disc "The Last in Line". This is the second Dio recording released in the 24k Gold Cd format, the first being "Holy Diver". Pre-orders can now be placed though Amazon.com...

Sunday, September 23, 2012

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC - CHAPTER 52 - ROLLING STONES RETURN TO SYRACUSE - JULY 6, 1966

Nine months after their first Syracuse appearance the Rolling Stones return to the War Memorial at 8 PM on July 6, 1966. The show was sponsored by Hubbub Productions and WOLF Radio. The Stones were on tour promoting their newest album "Out of Our Head." The MC that evening was WOLF's night time star Dale Dorman who appeared on stage wearing a white tuxedo..

The Rolling Stones performed the following songs- Not Fade Away, The Last Time, Paint It Black, Stupid Girl, Spider and the Fly, Lady Jane, Mother's Little Helper, Get Off My Cloud, 19th Nervous Breakdown and ended with Satisfaction.

Other acts performing were Little Rick (Mozzo) and The DelShayes (from Syracuse later known as the Endless Knight sang Little Latin Lupe Lu, Bring It On Home to Me & Major Workout) The Tradewinds (New York is a Lonely Town, Fun, Fun, Fun & Mr Tambourine Man), The Standells (Dirty Water, Gloria, Good Lovin & Shout), and The McCoys with Rick Derringer (Hang on Sloopy, Fever, Come On Let's Go, & Baby Won't You Drive My Car).

Saturday, September 22, 2012

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC- CHAPTER 51- First Syracuse War Memorial Rock & Roll Shows 1956-57

Here's a listing of Syracuse's first three Big Rock & Roll In Person Shows with performers & dates

#1 April 26, 1956- Biggest Show of Stars, (Attn 8,500) Sold Out, War Memorial

Stars- Bill Haley & The Comets, Bo Diddley, The Drifters, The Flamingos, Clyde Mc Phatter, The Platters, The Teenagers w/ Frankie Lymon, Teen Queens, "Big" Joe Turner, LaVern Baker, The Colts, Red Prysock and his Orchestra.


#2 October 27, 1956- Biggest In Person Show of 1956- War Memorial

Stars- Bill Haley and The Comets, Chuck Berry, The Clovers, Flamingos. Ella Johnson, Frankie Lymon, The Platters, The Flaires, Shirley & Lee, Shirley Gunter, Buddy Johnson & Orchestra, Vic Lewis & Orchestra,  MC- Harold Cromer


#3 September 16, 1957-  Biggest Show of Stars of 1957- War Memorial

Stars- Paul Anka, Chuck Berry, Everly Brothers,  Fats Domino, LaVern Baker, Jimmy Bowen, Buddy Knox,The Crickets with Buddy Holly, The Drifters, The Diamonds, Clyde McPhatter, Frankie Lymon & Teenagers, Paul Williams & Orchestra, MC- Harold Cromer.

Note- this would be Buddy Holly's only performance in Syracuse. Holly & the Crickets stayed the night at the Hotel Onondaga.

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC - CHAPTER 50- - Rolling Stones first visit Syracuse in 1965

October 30, 1965, the Rolling Stones performed their first Syracuse concert at the War Memorial at 8 PM. This show was a "Sell Out" attended by some 8,000+ screaming fans. Tickets were priced at $3.00 in advance and $4 the day of the show. Note- "Dandy Dan" Leonard was instrumental in making this show possible.

The musical acts included- Ed Wool & The Nomads (from Watertown), Monty Rock III, The Rockin Ramrods (Ghost Riders in the Sky), Patti LaBelle and the Blue Bells (I Who Have Nothing), The Vibrations (Sloopy & Watusi) and finally the Rolling Stones. Note- Monty Rock III also served as MC.

The Rolling Stones consisted of Mick Jagger, Brian Jones, Keith Richard, Charlie Watts and Bill Wyman. Here is a list of songs (in order) they performed that evening. Everybody Needs Somebody to Love, Have Mercy, Cry To Me, Reelin and A Rockin, That's How Strong My Love Is (Otis Redding tune), I Feel Alright, The Last Time, Get Off My Cloud, ending with Satisfaction.

Tickets were sold at Walt's Record Shop, Clark Music, The Music Box (University & Northern Lights), Shoppingtown Music, Liverpool Music, Greco's in Fulton and Fred's Record Shop in Auburn.

The Stones would return to Syracuse again July 6, 1966 in a concert presented by Hubbub Productions & WOLF Radio. I will feature this Stones concert in a later post.

Update-
For those of you asking.... Here's the song listing of the artists that  played that night with the Stones.... 
Ed Wool & Nomads- High Heeled Sneakers, Please, Please, Don't Go and Hardly Bad.
Rockin Ramrods- Ghost Riders in the Sky, Like a Rolling Stone &  I Got My Mojo Working.
Patti Labelle- I Who Have Nothing & Danny Boy.
The Vibrations- The Watusi, My Girl Sloopy (Hang on Sloopy) & Peanut Butter.
Also Monty Rock III was backed instrumentally by Ed Wool & Nomads.

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC - CHAPTER 49- - BRITISH INVASION - SEARCHERS & ANIMALS PLAY SYRACUSE IN 1964

As the British Invasion was sweeping America and the world fans in Syracuse were treated to two great concerts in 1964. First on June 3, 1964 in what WOLF Radio billed  as "The Liverpool Express Show" at Sports-O-Rama in Matydale. The Searchers headlined performing their hits- Needle & Pins, Love Potion #9, Sugar & Spice, Don't Throw Your Love Away & Sweets For My Sweet.

The bill also consisted of The Dovells with Len Barry (Bristol Stomp, You Can't Set Down), Dick & Dee Dee (The Mountains High, Thou Shall Not Steal), Ronnie Dio & the Prophets (yes  Ronnie James Dio sang "Gonna Make It Alone" ) and Ronnie Cochran. Advanced tickets were priced at $2.00.

October 12, 1964- The Animals (w/ Eric Burdon & Chas Chandler) invaded the War Memorial at 8 PM. Mike Martineau & WNDR's Dan Leonard  were co-promoters with advance tickets selling for $2.00, $2.50 at the door. Some 2,500-3,000 fans attended the concert that also featured- J. Frank Wilson & the Cavaliers (Last Kiss), The Royalettes (Gonna Take a Miracle),  Elkie Brooks and local bands Carmen Licitra & the Vikings (Dave Pasternack) and The Concepts (Don Martin).

The Animal wore pin striped suits with orange shirts. Their song list included- House of the Rising Sun, I'm Cryin, Shout and Bring It On Home To Me.

Note- Many of you may remember Chas Chandler as he later became the manager of Jimi Hendrix.

Sunday, September 16, 2012

LOCAL BANDS RALLY TO BENEFIT ONE OF THEIR OWN AT STATION 58- SUNDAY SEPT 16

Five of Central New York's top band performed Sunday afternoon Sept 16 to help Garrett Knaub (a member of band 3 Inch Fury) and his family who lost their home and all their belongings to a devastating fire.  The benefit held at Station 58 featured the follow bands- Under The Gun, Emerald City, Kat Tale, Scars N Stripes and 3 Inch Fury.
 
We salute all who performed, donated gifts, prises, food and those who attended for helping one of our own. You made us involved in the CNY Music scene proud of your effort.

Friday, September 14, 2012

LOS BLANCOS PLAYS THE SYRACUSE BEER FESTIVAL AT ALLIANCE BAND STADIUM

The famed Syracuse Band "Los Blancos"  performed at the Syracuse Beer Festival  at Alliance Band Stadium in Syracuse Saturday, September 15. This festival featured many NYS and national breweries along with "Beers of the World". Los Blancos lineup includes- Colin Aberdeen (guitar & vocals), Mark Nanni (keyboards), Mark Tiffault (drums) and Stephen T. Winton (bass). Also performing was Driftwood a teriffic band from the Binghamton, NY area.

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

NEW DIO 14 CD "THE SINGLES UK COLLECTION" BOX SET THAT ALSO INCLUDES A DIO VIDEO COLLECTION DVD 1983-1999, BOOKLET AND UK TOUR POSTER BY UNIVERSAL MUSIC AVAILABLE NOW...

Universal Music/ Vertigo   just released a new 14 CD Ronnie James Dio UK Box Set titled "The Singles Collection".  This box set contains 48 songs from 14 of Dio's classic singles (in replica). A 15th disc included is a DVD containing 11 Dio music videos from 1983-1993. It also contains a reprint U.K. tour poster and a 32-page booklet.
 
The 14 Cd's are- Holy Diver, Rainbow in the Dark, The Last in Line, We Rock. Mystery (w/ poster), Rock n Roll Children, Hungry For Heaven, Dio Live, King of Rock n Roll, I Could Have Been A Dreamer, All the Fools Sailed Away, Intermission, The Dio EP, Jesus Mary and The Holy Ghost


Disc #15 -"The Videos 1983- 1993 contains the following- Holy Diver, Stand Up and Shout, Rainbow in the Dark, Mystery, The Last in Line, We Rock, Rock n Roll Children, King of Rock and Roll, I Could Have Been a Dreamer, All the Fools Sailed Away and Hey Angel.
 
This very special DIO European Box Set can be ordered now through AMAZON.COM

Note- This Dio Box will also be released in Japan

Sunday, September 9, 2012

LONGTIME SYRACUSE MUSICIAN CARMEN LIBERATORE PASSES AWAY

We are deeply saddened to report the unexpected passing September 3 of longtime CNY musician Carmen Liberatore at age 61. Carmen who started drumming at age 12 has played in many area bands throughout the years.. Carmen attended both our History of Syracuse Music album series historic group photos, the first being in 1973. We cherish his friendship and dedication to our Syracuse Music History..He will be missed by us all......
 
Thanks to  Rick Cappotto who sent this our way...

Thursday, September 6, 2012

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC - CHAPTER 48 - DEL SHANNON'S SYRACUSE VISITS (Updated Feb 19, 2014)

Hall of Famer Del Shannon appeared in and around CNY a number of times during his long career. We are going to touch on just some of the more important shows. But first a little history..
"Runaway" was released by Bigtop Records #3067 first hit the WOLF & WNDR Radio charts in Syracuse on March 25 and remained their till July 8, 1961 reaching the coveted #1 spot three weeks. Knocking off Ricky Nelson's smash hit "Travelin Man". Del's follow up release "Hats Off To Larry" (Bigtop #3075) first charted on June 10 while Runaway still enjoyed over a month more Top 40 airplay.
"Hats of To Larry" enjoyed two weeks at the #1 spot and remained on both Syracuse stations music charts through September 1, 1961. It was followed closely by "So Long Baby"(Sept 2- Nov 17) peaking at #8.

His string of Bigtop Label hits continued "Hey Little Girl" (Nov 6- Dec 31, 1961), Ginny In The Mirror" ( Mar 4- Apr. 7, 1962), "Two Kind of Teardrops" (Apr 13- May 18, 1962),  "Cry Myself To Sleep" (Aug 1962), Swiss Maid" (Sept 9- Oct 6, 1962) "Little Town Flirt" (Dec 29, 1962- Feb 9, 1963) and a double sided hit in the UK "From Me To You" (Beatles) b/w "Two Silhouettes" (June 8-15, 1965).  Berlee Record label then released "Sue's Gonna Be Mine" (Nov 7-21, 1965). A change to the AMY record label yielded more hits "Handy Man" (May 29 -Aug 14, 1964), " Do You Want To Dance" (Sept  18- Oct 21, 1964)," Keep on Searchin" (Nov 12, 1964- Jan 1, 1965) and "Stranger in Town" (Feb 22-March 25, 1965) all smash hits here in Central New York.

Between 1961-65 only two Del Shannon records failed to make the Syracuse Top 40 listings "Mary Jane" (Feb 2-13, 1964, a WNDR "Pick to Click" selection ) & "Break Up" (Amy Label in 1965).

Later in Del's career he released the following singles "Big Hurt" for Liberty Records (1966), "Tell Her Know" for Island Records (1975), "Sea of Love" Network Record (1981) all with little commercial success.

Del Shannon one of Rock & Roll greats was first seen in Central New York playing a Easter Week (April 24, 1962) concert for WOLF Radio's Bob Dell & Andy Andrews at Sports O' Rama  in Mattydale, NY. He headlined the show and shared the stage with Brian Hyland & Jean Thomas (Moon River) along with Syracuse bands 'Paul & The Velvets' (Paul Levandowski, Mickey Palumbo), 'The Eternals' (Tom Rozzano, Mickey Nicotra), "Keystones" (Hal Robinson),  'Little Linda' & "The Capitols" (Chuck Sgroi). Two years later Del Shannon returned to play at Syracuse University with the national recording artist "The Tymes" ( So Much in Love) and our own Otis (Smith) and The Headliners on December 11, 1964.

His next Syracuse appearance would be a classic. April 24, 1973, Del Shannon played LeMoyne College (with the Alligators) and stayed the night in Syracuse at the Dewitt Ranch Motel on Erie Blvd.. My good friend Don Bombard (now Bob Shannon of New York's WCBS FM) and I then took a chance and went there hoping to interview this rock legend. To our surprise we were given his room number and knocked on his door. Wow that's security for you in 1973....

To our surprise Del Shannon open the door. We introduced ourselves from WOLF Radio and he invited us in. After talking about his concert the night before, his many hits and his association with the great Max Crook, Del told us he had just received a master cassette from his soon to be released album "Live In England" and invited us to stay and listen to the complete album. An offer we just couldn't refuse..

Don & I sat on the floor and listened with Del Shannon to his great new album that was soon to be release once a label deal was completed. Tracks were recorded live on Dec 2 1972 at the Princess Club in Manchester, England. It started with "Hats Off To Larry" and ended with "Runaway". In between Handy Man, Swiss Maid, Hey Little Girl, Little Town Flirt, Kelly, Two King of Teardrops Coopersville Yodel, The Answer to Everything, Keep Searchin, What's The Matter Baby, So Long Baby and a great version of the Roy Orbison song Crying. We each had our photo taken with Del and thanked him for his kindness. Amazing we heard this classic live album  months before it hit record store shelves.

 Del Shannon also played at Onondaga Community College (1973) and again in Syracuse on September 23, 1978 at the War Memorial a benefit for the Syracuse Police (PBA). Performing with Del that evening were Bobby Rydell, The Regents (Barbara Ann), Belmonts, Freddie Cannon and the Marvelettes.

After a June 14, 1983 Landmark Theater concert with Bo Diddley & Little Anthony was canceled due to Diddley's illness, next came Richard Nader Rock & Roll Revival Show on August 28, 1983 at the New York State Fair. Shannon shared the stage with The Marvelettes and the great Bobby Comstock and his Band.

His last few CNY appearances were at local clubs, May 1, 1985 at Gordies Double Play in Phoenix, NY once again with The Alligators and July 20-21, 1989 at Trader Macks with The Shirelles.
Del Shannon (born Charles Westover in 1934)  who began his music career in Battle Creek, Michigan and rose to the top of the Rock & Roll world died in Los Angeles on February 8, 1990. At New York's Waldorf-Astoria on  March 15, 1999 Del Shannon was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame,

Many of you might have caught Del Shannon at he toured the country on a number of big package tours as "Biggest Show of Stars-1961" (Drifters, Gary "U.S" Bonds, Gene McDaniels, Platters) and Dick Clark's Caravan of Stars both in 1964 (Summer Edition w/ Lou Christie, Gene Pitney, Supremes) & 1965 (with Zombies, Tommy Roe, Tina Turner,  Major Lance, Shangri-las and others).

Don & I both cherish our moments and great memories with this rock icon..known as Del Shannon

Saturday, August 25, 2012

THANKS TO THE RONNIE JAMES DIO - "OFFICIAL" FACEBOOK FAN PAGE.

Ronnie James Dio "Official" Facebook Fan Page - Many thanks for the kind words. I really appreciate them. Ronnie was and still is  a major part of our Syracuse & Central New York Music History - Ron

Thursday, August 23, 2012

STATE OF NEW YORK & NYS FAIR TO OFFICIALLY HONOR OUR LONGTIME FRIEND JOE LAGUARDIA ..AUGUST 24

Our longtime friend the late Joe LaGuardia (who died May 14) was honored by New York State for his 32 years of service as NYS Fair Marketing Director contributing to the fairs  sponsorships, organization, grow and on stage concert events that included some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. 
He will be honored on stage at the NYS Fair before the Keith Urban concert on August 24. A space honoring LaGuardia will feature two banners hanging on outside of the grandstand along with a plaque that will contains Joe's portrait taken by Syracuse New Times / SAMMY Hall of Fame photographer Mike Davis. This ceremony will included Joe's family (wife Carol and his children) and friends.
A true friend who is already deeply missed by all of us - Ron

Thursday, August 9, 2012

STEVE CORY - LONGTIME CAFFERTY BAND VOCALIST ISSUES NEW ALBUM

Longtime CNY musician & vocalist Steve Cory has issued his first solo album.  His album "Your Stinkin Love" is available now on Cd Baby. We all know Steve from his longtime association with the very  popular  Cafferty Band. Caffery Band members recently reunited in July for Dio Day Cortland 2012. A tribute to the great Ronnie James Dio.

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

1900 PROGRAM OF "BEN HUR" PLAYING AT SYRACUSE'S WIETING OPERA HOUSE FOUND

During my recent travels I found a  March 22-24, 1900 concert program of the classic play "Ben Hur" that was playing at that time at  the Wieting Opera House in downtown Syracuse. This 20-page program listed "Ben Hur" as staged by the Klaw & Erlanger Company and starred Alpeonz Ether (a few years before the Ben Hur we know, Charlton Heston) with music by Edgar Stillman Kelly

Note- Horses, Coach. Livery and Baggage Express offered by Burns Brothers

Also- G.W Clark will be moving to their new quarters in "Clark Music Building" 416-420 So. Salina Street. "Clark Music- "The Music House of Quality". Pianos, Musical Goods Of All Kinds.

The Wieting Opera House at the time was managed by John Kerr,  Executive Staff managers Charles Towle &  Elwood Cooke

Monday, August 6, 2012

DIO "OFFICIAL" WEBSITE ANNOUNCES NEW CD RELEASE (UPDATE)

The Ronnie James Dio "Official" Website announced this week that there will be a new Dio Cd release "The Very Beast of Dio- Volume 2" on October 9, 2012. It will contain the following 17 tracks-

Killing the Dragon, Push, The Eyes, Along Comes a Spider, Better in the Dark, Fever Dreams, Black, Feed My Heard, Shivers, Hunter of the Heart (Live), One More For The Road, Lord OF The Last Day, Electra (bonus track), As Long As It's Not About Love, This Is Your Life, Metal Will Never Die (bonus track w/ David "Rock" Feinstein) and Prisoner of Paradise (bonus track).

PS contains 3-bonus tracks, two of which are new and never been made availbale on a full DIO Cd before.

Art work was created by Marc Sasso who previously worked on Dio's "Killing The Dragon" and "Master Of The Moon" albums

It can be order from Ronnie James Dio's "Official" Wedsite or from Amazon.com.

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

ISREAL HAGAN & JACK PENETRATOR TEAM WITH HALL OF FAME PRODUCER MARK DOYLE

 Isreal Hagan & Jack Penetrator have teamed to release song  "Broke Down Piece of Man" (Time 3:34) on Rockinn Records. This great session was produced by SAMMY Hall of Famer Mark Doyle and is available...now... though Cd Baby (MP3). You may remember this song as it was performed by Hall of Famers, Sam & Dave.

Monday, July 30, 2012

BURNS SISTER'S NEW CD HIGHLIGHTED BY GUTHRIE'S "HILLS OF ITHACA".

The fantastic Burn Sisters have released their newest Cd "The Hill of Ithaca". It opened with the great Derek and the Dominoes (Clapton) song "Tell the Truth" and included the Woody Guthrie tune "The Hills of Ithaca" a song written by Guthrie traveling home from a performance at Cornell in 1947.. This is another in a long line of great Cds from the Burns Sisters who we remember from releases on Columbia & Philo Records (Rounder).

SYRACUSE MUSIC HALL OF FAMER "ISREAL HAGAN" RELEASES NEW CD

SAMMY's Hall of Famer Isreal Hagan has just released a new Cd "Balance". It is avalaible on Cd Baby or if in Central New York at Sound Garden &  Barnes & Noble (Dewitt).

Thursday, July 19, 2012

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC - CHAPTER 47 - JIMMY VAN HEUSEN

Edward Chester Babcock was born in Syracuse on January 26, 1913. His mother May (Foster) Babcock was a decedent of Stephen Foster. His mother taught Jimmy to play piano at an early age. Babcock wrote songs while still attending Central High School and has his own show on a small Syracuse radio station. He once was kicked out of high school when instead of completing a science project he wrote the song "My Canary Had Circles Under His Eyes".

After his years at Central High, Jimmy attended Cazenovia Seminary and Syracuse University. At SU he became friends with Jerry Arlen, the brother of songwriter Harold Arlen. With Harold's help he started writing songs for the famed Cotton Club in New York City. By now, Jimmy was working at Syracuse radio stations WSYR and later WFBL. He picked his professional name off a Van Heusen Shirt billboard sign that looked over downtown Syracuse. He was now Jimmy Van Heusen.

Van Heusen became a staff songwriter for a number of Tin Pan Alley publishers and in 1938 was employed by the Remick Music Company. Jimmy penned the music for "It's The Dreamer In Me", to lyrics written by Tommy Dorsey. In 1939, Jimmy and Eddie DeLange wrote all the songs for the Broadway show "Swingin the Dream".

The Syracuse native and world famous songwriter penned songs for sixteen Bing Crosby films as well as songs like "High Hopes", "My Kind of Town" (Chicago is), "Come Fly With Me". "All The Way", "Call Me Irresponsible", "Imagination". and hundreds more. His songs have been a favorite of both Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby. Sinatra went on to record over 75 songs written by Van Heusen & Sammy Cahn, who became a songwriting team in 1955.

In 1948, Jimmy Van Heusen started the music publishing firm of BurVan Inc. and though the years his publishing investment included Burke-Van Heusen and Famous Music. Jimmy released his own vinyl album "Jimmy Van Heusen plays Jimmy Van Heusen" in 1961. Jimmy was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame when it was established in 1971,

Jimmy Van Heusen passed away of a heart attack at his Palm Springs, California home on February 6, 1990. In 1994, the Smithsonian Collections of recording called American Songbook Series released the Cd "James Van Heusen". Twenty-one of Jimmy's songs have been performed and recorded by various national artists. In 2001, Syracuse Music Hall of Famer- Mark Doyle released a CNY Tribute Cd to Jimmy Van Heusen called " High Hopes"

Story in progress

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC- CHAPTER 46 - THE VIKINGS (1962) TO CARMAN LICITRA AND THE VIKINGS (1963-67)... UPDATED


The Vikings formed back in 1962 by Dave Pasternack (former Knights guitarist) along with Bill Huber (drums) and Pete Pellinz (bass). Guitarist Joe Sawmiller was added a short time later. The band appeared playing live on WNDR's Dick Snyder radio show perfoming "Love Potion #9". Snyder featured some of Central New York's greatest talent playing live at the WNDR studio in Dewitt

The band's second version started in 1963 and included Dave Pasternack (guitar) with Dave Novak (guitar), Howie Castle (drums) WOLF Radio's Fred Winston (bass) and Carman Licitra (lead vocals). Joe Sawmiller went on the join Don Barber and the Dukes.


With their popularity a name change to Carman Licitra and the Vikings Mainstays Pasternack, Novak & Licitra were joined by Mike Adanato (drums) and Chuck DiCosmo (bass- joined in 1964.). This lineup opened for the Beach Boys (with Brian Wilson) in a rain shortened event at MacArthur Stadium on September 3, 1964.

Next they shared the War Memorial stage with the Four Seasons (Frankie Valli) and The Animals (Eric Burdon) before 2,500 screaming fans on October 12, 1964. They also played a four month engagement at the Fayetteville Inn and made regular stops at Colgate & Cornell Universities. In September 1965, Carmen & The Vikings recorded more than a half dozen demo recordings for RCA Records (I Do, Bye Bye Baby, Mary Sue Ellen & others), but never signed to a official contract. They next played at the famed Grossinger's Resort (Nov 18, 1965) in the Catskill Mountains located near Liberty, NY with Neil Sedaka. Then it was to the War Memorial stage opening once again for the Beach Boys before 4,500 on July 22, 1966.

Various Vikings and Carman & The Vikings recordings can be heard on the History of Syracuse Music album series. Carman Licitra after heading the band for three years departed in 1967 and spent the next two-years in the military service. At this point Dave Novak departed to join "The Nightcaps" (replacing Don Shoudy). Dave  Pasternack left  to team with ex-Sam & the Twisters members Mickey Palumbo, Jan Fetterly & Al Wolf to former the "Livin Ennd." Upon his return to Central New York,  Carman Licitra joined the group "The Night Magic" playing many evenings at the 4 Choices Restaurant in 1980.

Note- Carman Licitra donated his guitar, photo and vest top to the Onondaga Historical Association in Syracuse. They are currently on display.

Sunday, July 8, 2012

MARK DOYLE & THE MANIACS, THE RODS, CAFFERTY BAND, CHARLIE BERTINI , BLIND SPOTS & OTHERS ARE "FANTASTIC" AT DIO DAY CORTLAND 2012

It was another great event as musical lineup for Dio Day Cortland 2012  hit the stage of the J.M. McDonald Sports Complete in Cortland Saturday July 7 starting at 1 PM in honor of the great Cortland native the legendary  Ronnie James Dio.

Mark Doyle & the Maniacs, The Rods, Cafferty Band, Charlie Bertini Band, Hurtin Units, Blind Spots, Steve Southworth & Rockabilly Rays, Hangmans Heart, Wreckly J's and others showcase their FANTASTIC musical talent. Classic Rock I-100's Kat Walters did a super job as the events mc..

It was especially nice see old and new friends- Dick Bottoff, Tommy Rogers, Joe Leo, Dave Porter, Mark Doyle, Dave Hanlon, Charlie Bertini, Rock Feinstein, Garry Bordonaro, Carl Canedy, Harold Hyde, Joel Kane, Brian Miles, Vince Faraoni to name just a few in attendance.

 

Friday, July 6, 2012

RONNIE JAMES DIO - DIO DAY CORTLAND 2012 TRIBUTE CONCERT - JULY 7

DIO DAY CORTLAND 2012  -* Saturday - July 7, 2012,  at J.M. McDonald Sports Complex, Cortland, NY.  Doors open at 12 noon,  Music starts at 1 PM.

Tickets $15 were  avaliable in Cortland, NY at The Hollywood Restaurant, Hyde's Dinner, Sheridan's Jewelry, Jim Vandeuson Music, The Haunt (Ithaca) and at the door. MC is- I-100 FM Classic Rock's Kat Walters (Cayuga Radio Group)

MISSION STATEMENT
To foster an interest in Cortland's rich musical heritage by uniting generations through the music of Ronnie James Dio; as well as to support musical enrichment in the community, and provide funding for cancer research for generations to come via an annual event held in Ronnie's name.

Band's who performed


THE RODS    (7 PM)
(Rock Feinstein, Carl Canedy, Garry Bordinaro)

MARK DOYLE AND THE MANIACS   (6 PM)
(Mark Doyle,  Frank DeFonda, Phil Broikues, Joel Kane) 

THE CAFFERTY BAND    (5 PM)
 (Joe Leo, Steve Cory, Bill Strong, Jim Reagan, Dan Austin, Danielle Rausa,  other special guest included Charlie Bertini, Brian Miles, Steve Daniels, Steve Shiffman)

CHARLIE BERTINI BAND  (3 PM)
(Charlie Bertini, Dave Hanlon, Tom Taylor & Dave Solazzo)

STEVE SOUTHWORTH and  ROCKABILLY RAYS   (1 PM)
(Steve Southworth, Fluffy Saccucci, Bob Southworth, Jay Crapo)

THE WRECKLY  J's   (2 PM)
(Neno LaRocca, Steve Romanowski, Dickie Chelekis, Wreckly Lamarm, Denny D

THE HURTIN UNITS  (4 PM)
(Robby Petrella, Bobcat Rawks, Marc Ryan & Joey)

BLIND SPOTS   (8 PM)
(Maddy Walsh, Mike Suave, Captain Doobie Zuben, Francois Dillinger, Jeff Turback)

HANGMAN'S HEART   (9 PM)
(Rob White, Aaron Craig, Mike Marcy,  Rocco Rich)

Others who performed included-Bill Golicki, Steve Daniels,  Jim VanDeuson, Steve Romer


DIO DAY 2012 COMMITTEE MEMBERS

David "Rock" Feinstein (chairman),  Dick Bottoff, Vince Faraoni, Mimi Griswold, Harold "Butch" Hyde, Terry Mingle, Michael Sheppard, Kat Walters, Ron Wray



Thursday, June 28, 2012

FLASHCUBES YOUTUBE SITE CONTAINS VIDEO SEGMENT ON SAPPORO, JAPAN 2012 TOUR

Check out Flashcubes on YouTube  and enjoy a video segment of the Flashcubes April 2012 arrival in Sapporo; Japan. The Flashcubes on this years Japan tour included- Gary Frenay (bass) , Arty Lenin (guitar), Paul Armstrong (lead guitar) and Ducky Carlisle (drums) who replaced Tommy Allen who couldn't not make the trip. I know you'll enjoy it I did....

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

MARK DOYLE & "ROCK" FEINSTEIN APPEAR ON WSYR TV- 9 "BRIDGE STREET" SHOW TO PROMOTE DIO DAY CORTLAND- ( JULY 7)

Syracuse Music Hall of Famers Mark Doyle & David "Rock" Feinstein appeared today (June 27) on WSYR TV-9 "Bridge Street " television show that airs starting at 10 AM. Both will be featured artists that will perform at Dio Day Cortland 2012 (tribute to Ronnie James Dio)- Saturday July 7 at the J.M. MacDonald Center in Cortland, NY. Doors open at 12 noon, music starts at 1 PM.  Tickets $15. Todays WSYR TV-9 Bridge Street hosts were Chris Brandolino & Staci Lyn Honda. Thanks to Tim Fox.

Sunday, June 24, 2012

BOB STOCKDALE FORMER WSEN OWNER & COUNTRY MUSIC CONCERT PRODUCER PASSES AWAY AT AGE 86

Longtime WSEN Radio owner and Country Music Concert promoter Bob Stockdale passed away on June 16, 2012 at age 86. Stockdale born in Syracuse in 1926, graduated from Nottingham High School and attended  Syracuse University's School of Broadcasting. Bob landed an on the air broadcasting and producer position at WAGE Radio AM-620 (now WHEN Radio) from 1944 through 1951. In 1961, Stockdale built and was part owner and general manager of WSEN Radio in Baldwinsville (CNY's major Country Music Station).

During the 1960's & 70's he produced man country and western concerts "Shower of Stars" at the NYS Fair Coliseum and the Onondaga County War Memorial.

His WSEN Radio "Shower of Stars" live country music concert events included the following stars-  Roy Acuff, Bill Anderson, Eddy Arnold, Jim Ed Brown,  Johnny Cash,  Carter Family, Roy Clark, "Little" Jimmy Dickens, Donna Fargo,  Don Gibson, Mickey Gilley, George Hamilton IV, Stonewall Jackson,  Sonny James, Waylon Jennings,  Grandpa Jones, Claude King, Jerry Lee Lewis, Loretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell,  Roger Miller, Buck Owens, Dolly Parton, Johnny Paychek, Minnie Pearl,  Carl Perkins, Ray Price, Boots Randolph, Marty Robbins, Hank Snow, Red Sovine, Statler Brothers, Mel Tillis, Ernest Tubb, Conway Twitty, Porter Waggoner, Kitty Wells, Dottie West, Hank Williams Jr, Tammy Wynette, and many-many more

Bob Stockdale sold WSEN Radio in 1974. His longtime interest in music continued as he wrote three fantastic books on the lives of big band leaders Tommy & Jimmy Dorsey as well as serving as president of the Baldwinsville Theatre Guild. We applaud Bob Stockdate's lifetime contribution to the CNY musi scene.

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

MARK DOYLE AND THE MANIACS ....... SET TO ROCK CENTRAL NEW YORK WITH NEW LINEUP

Hall of Famer Mark Doyle and his new lineup of "The Maniacs" consisting of mainstay Frank DeFonda (drums) and  talented newcomers Phil Broikues (bass, guitar, harp, trombone, keyboards and vocals) and Joel Kane ( bass, guitar, vocals) hit the highways of Central New York this month.

You can catch them next at Suzy's Tavern in Auburn (Friday, June 29) and Saturday July 7 at  Dio Day Cortland at the J.M McDonald Center.

Mark Doyle will also appear live on WSYR TV-9 "Bridge Street" TV Program with David "Rock" Feinstein, Wednesday June 27 at 10 AM promoting the tribute to Ronnie James Dio.

Friday, June 8, 2012

NIJI ENTERTAINMENT GROUP RELEASES NEW "DIO" VINYL PICTURE DISC - June 5

Niji Entertainmemt Group has released  the DIO vinyl album "Master of The Moon" as a 12 inch vinyl collectable picture disc on June 5. As the others Ronnie James Dio picture disc issued they sell out quickly, so get your orders in now # VIN NIJI -230. It can be ordered through the Official Ronnie James Dio website store. wwwronniejamesdio.com

Note- This is the first time this picture disc has been released in the United States

RONNIE LEIGH 'S FIRST SOLO CD RELEASED BY APPLEJAZZ RECORDS

With the coming of the 2012 AppleJazz Festival at Little York Lake Park on June 2, 2012 comes the release of Ronnie Leigh's first ever solo CD  "Ronnie Leigh Live at  AppleJazz" This 10- track AppleJazz Records CD produced by Charlie Bertini features the great Syracuse Music Hall of Fame vocalist Ronnie Leigh and the talents of first class musicians Jeff Phillips, Ronnie France, Mark Doyle, Dave Hanlon, Charlie Bertini, Terry Myers and John Allred.

Tracks include-" I Love Being Here With You", "Bye Bye Blackbird", "I'll Be There", "Ain't Misbehavin' ", "All Blues/ Every Day I Have The Blues", "What The World Needs Now Is Love", "Use Me", " Teach Me Tonight", "Stompin' At The Savoy" and "Amazing Grace". This long overdue Ronnie Leigh CD is available now at. www.applejazz.com

QUESTION - RON, DID RONNIE JAMES DIO PLAY THE SURF BALLROOM IN CLEAR LAKE , IOWA. THE SAME SURF OF BUDDY HOLLY- RITCHIE VALENS FAME ??

Yes, in deed he did, twice. The first time back on August 2, 1964 when included in a package tour headlined by Johnny Tillotson ("Poetry in Motion","Dreamy Eyes" and many others) along with Bernadette Carroll ("Party Girl"). They were know at that time as Ronnie Dio and the Prophets (Dick Bottoff, Nick Pantas and Tommy Rogers). Tickets were $1.50

The second time, October 10, 2004 with his band Dio. Opening acts were Fireball Ministry & Anthrax. Dio took the stage at approx 10:20 pm. The Surf Ballroom was and still is located at 460 North Shore Drive in Clear Lake, Iowa and its capacity is about 2,000.

February 2, 1959, Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper played their final show on that wintry evening. A short time later their chartered plane crashed into a Iowa cornfield ending the lives of all three rock & roll stars and the planes pilot. "The Day The Music Died."

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC - CHAPTER 45 - ELVIS PRESLEY PERFORMS IN SYRACUSE - JULY 25 & 27, 1976

In a career that date back to the mid 1950's Elvis Presley finally performed for his Central New York fans in 1976. To accommodate the many ticket requests two concerts were scheduled at the War Memorial- July 25 & July 27 (in between Elvis played Rochester).                     

The shows started at 8:30 PM and consisted of comedian Jack Kahane, The Sweet Inspiration and J.D. Sumner and the Stamps. Elvis followed delivering a 65 minute performance enhanced by thousand's of flashbulbs going off and some 8,000 screaming fans of all ages. Many have asked me if I know Elvis's song list on those July nights. Well here it going to the best of my memory..

The opening was  the theme from 2001 A Space Odyssey Then Elvis enters singing in order- C.C. Rider, I Got A Woman, Love Me, If You Love Me, You Gave Me A Mountain, a medley of All Shook Up, Teddy Bear & Don't Be Cruel, followed by And I Love You So, Jailhouse Rock, Fever, America the Beautiful, Polk Salad Annie, Love Letters, Elvis then introduced the band members ( that included guitarist James Burton & ex-Cricket Glenn  Hardin on piano), Hail, Hail Rock & Roll, Hurt, Hound Dog, Funny How Time Slips Away, and closing with Can't Help Falling In Love. He did no encore. Tickets prices started at $12.50.

Elvis was scheduled to return to Syracuse August 20, 1977, but the War Memorial show was canceled due to his untimely death in Memphis a few day before

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC - CHAPTER 44 - ERIC CLAPTON w/ DEREK & the DOMINOS, SPECIAL GUEST - DUANE ALLMAN PLAY SYRACUSE- DECEMBER 2, 1970

I first remember seeing the name Derek and the Dominos  back in  June 1970 as WOLF Radio received a Atco promotional single of their song "Tell The Truth" b/w "Roll It Over" produced by the Hall of Fame producer Phil Spector. With Phil's name we all had to listen to this up tempo track. The band consisted of former Delaney, Bonnie & Friends band members Bobby Whitlock, Carl Radle, Jim Gordon along with the British blues guitar great Eric Clapton (The Yardbirds).

Well, this single disappeared quickly and was not released commercially. We next heard the band (minus Phil Spector) was recording an album titled "Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs" at Criteria Studio in Miami starting in late August 1970. Now the Syracuse story begins, we received notice that Derek & The Dominos along with Toe Fat was scheduled to play the War Memorial October 18, 1970. This date quickly changed as their album was not yet completed. It was re-scheduled for December 2, 1970 with the addition of Elton John (yes that Elton John). The negative was that the band could not be advertised as Eric Clapton only as Derek  and the Dominos, Derek is Eric.

For me the name Eric Clapton was already legendary.  I couldn't wait to watch him perform or if I was lucky get an interview. I arrived early at this WOLF event and caught Toe Fat's set, watched Elton from backstage with anticipation of catching Clapton's entrance.  The War Memorial side security door opened and in came the band who quickly went to their second floor dressing room.  I introduced myself to their manager and asked for an interview with Clapton . He replied "I'll see want I can do."

 A half hour went by and things didn't look good. As the band came down the stairs and entered the backstage area their manager spoke to Eric and he quickly asked me if I wanted to get in a picture with the Eric and the band. In what only took one minute of time that photo was taken. That was one of the greatest moment in my 48 year musical career. Little did I know that to my left stood Duane Allman who was playing as a special guest with the band that evening. Allman played with them in concert just twice.. The night before in Miami, here in Syracuse and never again. As you know he was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident about a year later. Tickets for Derek & the Dominos concert were priced at $5.50, $4.50, $3.50

As for the song "Layla" it finally became a monster hit and entered the WOLF Radio music survey on June 26, 1972 peaking at number #9.

Eric Clapton would play two more concerts in Syracuse on May 29, 1979 with Muddy Waters at the War Memorial and again at the Carrier Dome April 7, 1990.

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC - CHAPTER 43 -- DAN ELLIOTT FROM SAMMYS TO DOO-WOP HALL OF FAME (Update)

Did you ever wonder where do Hall of Fame careers begin? Well in Dan Elliott's case we head to Central New York in 1964 with the formation of the East Syracuse band "The Galaxies." By 1965 the Galaxies had evolved into "The Dimension."adding Dave Moziak, Dave Usiatynski, Bill Willis and Dan Elliott.

Dan came from a musical family as his  older brother Jack Abert helped form The Monterays back in 1961. The Monterays managed by WNDR Radio's "Dandy Dan" Leonard were riding high on the Syracuse music charts with the release of their single I'll Be Around" (1965). When members Tommy Forest and Larry Landry departed for military service three members of The Dimensions (Moziak, Usiatynski and Dan Elliott) took their places.

With their new addition the band followed with their second single "Very Last Day." Then came July 22, 1966, when The Monterays opened for the Beach Boys at the Syracuse War Memorial.. The year 1967 was to be a great one for the Monterays and lead vocalist Dan Elliott as they appeared April 29-30 at the Teen Fair at the War Memorial, then a television appearance on WSYR's "On The Move" TV show  hosted by WOLF Radio's Windy Craig. They next appeared with "The McCoys" (Hang on Sloopy) and Question Mark and the Mysterians (96 Tears) at Mattydale's Sports-O-Rama. The year ended with the addition of George Day former keyboards  and vocalist with the "Saints and The Sinners" (Ron Lauback, Dave Machem, Si Sifer, Bill Willis, Tommy Forest, and Day)

The following year The Monterays continued dominance of the Syracuse airwaves with the release of their third and most popular single "If Wishes Were Horses." With the songs huge popularity came television appearances with Denny Sullivan on TV-3 and a February 11, 1969 War Memorial  concert starring The Turtles, Canned Heat. Soon after they sharing the stage with Sly and the Family Stone at Oswego State College.

When The Monterays broke up in 1970 due to military obligations and other reasons. Dan Elliott joined Wilkes Barre Brigade. A year later he was a member of the house band at the Red Rooster before joining one of Syracuse's most popular band "The Livin' Ennd." Fate is always a part of success and Dan's came when former CNY'er Dave Machan referred him to another former Syracusan world known band leader "Peanuts" Hucko who was now heading the Glenn Miller Orchestra. After being hired as their male vocalist Elliott was off on tour that included stops in Japan, Hong Kong and Canada.

Once again fate stepped in when former Syracuse booking agent Larry Rand (with Banner Talent in NYC) advised Dan that The Belmonts (of Dion fame) were looking for a new lead vocalist. The rest is history for the next five year The Belmonts were constantly on the road playing week long engagements in some of the worlds top resort hotels while also performing in every major city on Richard Nader's Rock Revival shows with acts as Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Del Shannon, Bo Diddley, The Drifters, The Skyliners and Johnny Maestro and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Between 1975-77, Dan Elliott and The Belmont's recorded two singles, a  12 inch disc and the album ":Cheek to Cheek." In other projects, Belmont Warren Gradus used Dan to sing lead in his recordings "Hey Baby Stay" and "Celebrate" under the name Foreign Intrigue (1977-78). A year later they followed with an updated version of the Gary "U.S." Bonds hit "Quarter to Three" recorded under the name H-O Gauge.

The music industry was changing and disco music was now featured in many of the top hotels and resorts.  This shortened the Belmont's schedule so Dan returned to Syracuse and reformed The Monterays. They opened for Jay and the Americans at Stage East Club- March 22, 1980. Now singing with two groups Dan Elliott enjoyed constant work.

Meanwhile with The Belmont he went into Associated Studio in New York and recorded the song "Let's Put the Fun Back in Rock & Roll" with the legendary Freddie Cannon (1981). This led to a national appearances first with Freddie Cannon on "Solid Gold" TV Show hosted by Andy Gibb & Marilyn McCoo followed by the "Mike Douglas" Show.

Back in Syracuse, Dan and The Monterays recorded the single "Ruby" b/w "Stay Awhile" for Air Records (1981) and appeared with Ray Charles. The Belmonts (with Dan) appeared in Syracuse on Wolfman Jack's Solid Gold Show at the War Memorial with Danny & The Juniors, The Tokens, Cadillacs and Shirley Austin Reeves (of The Shirelles).

During the Syracuse Area Music Award Show (1996), I had the great honor of inducting Dan Elliott and the Monterays  into the SAMMY's Hall of Fame.  Dan can also be heard on many of "Big Mike" Fiss Christmas Time Cd's starting back in 1998.

A trip to the England in 1992 playing at the Wembley Convention Centre. But It was April 13 , 2001, when The Belmonts received their greatest honor being inducted the Doo-Wop Hall of Fame at Symphony Hall in Boston. If this isn't enough The Belmonts took the stage February 2, 2008 at the Buddy Holly Tribute Concert "Fifties in February" at the historic Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, some 49 year to the day the music died back in 1959.

Lead guitarist Ron Lauback joined Dan Elliott and the  Monterays in 2002 (another former member of Saints and The Sinners) and two years later he was joined by his son Ronnie Dark.

Dan Elliott continues to dazzle audiences to this day with The Belmonts, The Monterays or a soloist traveling across the USA or in Central New York clubs and restaurants.