Thursday, December 31, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE' - CHAPTER 154 - GREG SPENCER'S BLUE WAVE RECORDS CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF GREAT MUSIC RELEASES

Blue Wave Records was formed by Greg Spencer in 1983. It's goal of convincing people that local music could be, and often was, terrific. The label's first release was by Syracuse bluesmen the "Kingsnakes" and was produced by Mark Doyle (1985). The label's early recording included great material from such legendary CNY artist as Mark Doyle, Joe Whiting, The Kingsnakes, (Ed) Hamell on Trial and Stroke RnB.

Spencer's label also released a Blue Wave Sampler Cd titled "10th Anniversary Sampler" in 1995. It contained 70+ minutes of Rockin' Blues from the past 10 years from the Blue Wave archives.

Owner-producer Greg Spencer celebrated Blue Wave label's 15th anniversary in February 2000 with the release of a 17-cut highlight album. It featured Kim Lembo, Kim Simmons. Built For Comfort Blues Band, Ronnie D, Backbone Slip, Cub Koda, Tino Gonzales, Kingsnakes, Sean Costello, King Biscuit Boy and Downchild Blues Band.

April 2004, Greg released a compulation album of Jimmy Cavallo' spanning his over 50 years of performing Rock n' Roll called "Rock The Joint". The Jimmy Cavallo Collection 1951-73. 1973 also saw Greg Spencer being inducted into the Syracuse Area Music Hall of Fame (SAMMYS). June 2006 saw the great Jimmy Cavallo team with blueman Ron Spencer in winning a 2006 Sammy Award.

The Blue Wave Record catalog also included the last two volumes of the History of Syracuse Music Album series started some 36 years prior.

December 27, 2015 Greg Spencer celebrated Blue Waves Recxords 30th Anniversary by holding a fantastic live concert at the Palace Theater. This fantastic show mc'd by Dave Frisina featured super-group "The Kingsnakes". On stage that evening were Mark Doyle. Pete McMahon, Terry Mulhauser, Jerry Neeley, Steve Winston, Mark Tiffault, Joe Corello, Frank Grosso to name a few. Congrats goods out to our friend - Greg Spencer

Below is a total Blue Wave Label catalog listing

BW 101    Kingsnakes                   Take A Chance   (1985)
BW102     Doyle-Whiting Band    Good Rockin Tonight  (1985)
BW 103    Stroke RnB                   No Substute  (1985)
BW 104    Kingsnakes                   Hardlife Boogie  (1986)
BW 105    History of Syr Music   Volumes 12 &13  (1986)
BW 106   Doyle-Whiting Band     Flesh & Blood  (1986)
BW 108   Salt City Blues- Volume 1 
BW 109   Arthur Brown & Jimmy Clark Black      Brown, Black & Blue
BW 110   Hamell on Trail              Conviction  (1989)
CD 111    Kingsnakes                     19 Lucky Strikes (1989)
CD 112    Unholy Wives                 When Sanity Sleeps  (1989)
CD 113    Jumpin Joe Whiting        Rhythm n; Groove (1989)
BW 114   Kingsnakes                      Trouble on the Run (1990)
CD 115    Backbone Slip                 Swamp- Water  (1991)
CD 116    Kingsnakes                      Snakes Alive  (1992)
CD 117    Eric Burdon                     The Unreleased Eric Burdon  (1992)
CD 118   Built For Comfort Blues Band     Keep Cool  (1993)
CD 119   Doyle & Whiting              Buried Bones  (1993)
CD 120   Here Comes Another Christmas     Various Artists
CD 121   Cub Koda Collection 1963-93        Welcome To My Job (1993)
CD 122   Backbone Slip                    Avenue Breakdown (1994)
CD 123   (see below *)
CD 124   King Biscuit Boy                Urban Blues RE" Newell (1994)
CD 125   Kim Lembo                         Blue Heat  (1994)
CD 126   Downchild Blues Band       Good Times Guaranteed
CD 127   Kim Lembo                         Mama Lion  (1996)
CD 128   Blue Wave 10th Anniversary Collection - various artists (1995)
CD 129   Built For Comfort Blues Band    High Ballin  (1996)
CD 130   Eric Burdon                                 Unreleased Eric Burdon Vol 2 
CD 131   Kim Simmonds                            Solitaire (1997)
CD 132   Kim Lembo                                 Ready to Ride (1998)
CD 133   Ronnie D                                     Blues Demon (1998)
CD 134   Downchild Blues Band               Lucky 13  (1998)
CD 135   Tino Gonzales                             Double Feature  (1999)
CD 136   Sean Costello & His Jivebombers     Call The Cops
CD 137   Blue Wave 15th Anniversary Collection  (2000)
CD138    Kim Simmonds                             Blues Like Midnight (2001)
CD139    History of Syracuse Music Volume 14  (2000)
CD 140   Kim Lembo & Blue Heat             Paris Burning- Live Chesterfield Café (2000)
CD 141   Downchild Blues Band                A Matter of Time (2000)
CD 142   Kingsnakes                                   Trouble on the Run (2001)
CD 143   Jimmy Cavallo w/ Ron Spencer & Qumpstart - The House Rocker  (2002)
CD 144   Downchild Blues Band                 Body of Work- Collection Vol 2 (2003)
CD 145   Joni James Blues Band                 In The World  (2003)
CD 146   Jimmy Cavallo                              Rock the Joint- Collection 1951-73 (2004)
CD 147   Kingsnakes                                    Hot Snakes. Live Copperfields 1980 (2004)
CD 148   Ron Spencer & Qumpstart            Livin Low (2005)
CD 149   Jimmy Cavallo                              You Better Believe It (2006)
CD 150   Jony James Blue Band                  What About Tommorow  (2006)
CD 151   Kim Simmonds                             Out of the Blue (2008)
CD 152   Savoy Brown                                 Steel
CD 123*  Savoy Brown                                Too Much of A Good Thing (2009)


PRO 001  Kim Lembo & Blue Heat          Steamers
                                                                   (7-song limited edition of 200 pressings)

7243B4484620    Kim Lembo                    Mama Lion
                                                                    (Released in France on Virgin Sky Ranch label)

                             Kim Lembo                     Paris Buring Live at Chesterfield Café
                                                                     (Released in France in 2000)


Tuesday, December 1, 2015

PASSING OF FOUR GREAT CENTRAL NEW YORK MUSICIANS RECENTLY

Sad to report the passing of four great CNY musicians recently- Worldwide jazz great Mark Murphy (10/23) along with vocalist-frontman Spencer Montague (10/1) and keyboardist of the Alligators- Rick Scapicchio (10/18), sound engineer and technician John "Dawk" Stillwell (12/24) along with Buffalo born- Three Dog Night singer- Cory Wells who resided in Dunkirk, NY

Sunday, November 15, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" CHAPTER 153 - SYRACUSE'S PALACE THEATER HOSTS "THAT METAL SHOW" with EDDIE TRUNK, JIM FLORENTINE & DON JAMIESON

Syracuse once again was in the national spotlight Saturday night November 14th as "That Metal Show" made a stop at the Palace Theater. VH-1 That Metal Shop  hosts Eddie Truck, Don Jamieson & Jim Florentine all took the stage following a great meet and greet session signing autograph and posing for many photos with loyal fans. The Rods- bassist Garry Bordonaro & I visited with all three who shared some of their moment with our great friend Ronnie James Dio as we did out CNY memories as well. Then followed by each member taking the Palace stage for some great humor . Questions were answered about "That Metal Show" as for its production and talent past & present. Then the three gathered on stage together for question that ended with a long session of Eddie's famed- "Stump The Trump". Cd's were given as prizes to those who could stump the trio. It was Eddie Trunk's first visit to Syracuse, while Jim Florentine has performed in local comedy clubs here in the past, the most recent in February 2015.
 
It was my first meeting with Eddie Trunk even though he served as MC at the May 16th, 2015 Ronnie James Dio 5th Year Memorial Service in Hollywood that I attended. It was so busy that day that I wasn't able to say hello to him  from all of us in Central New York.

A Creative Concerts production- Thanks Stacey Waterman.

Friday, November 13, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" - CHAPTER 152- "RESPECT"- CNY CELEBATES WOMEN IN MUSIC SHOW - SELLS OUT

There have been many great musical events though all my years documenting our Syracuse Music History since the mid 1960's. But Saturday evening November 13, 2015 at the Palace Theater was one of the all-time best. Billed as "Respect" CNY Celebrates Women in Music was one of those special moments in our cities music history. It starts with Joanne Jewett and her dedicated committee who brought this "SOLD OUT" show to all of us. 32 great songs were performed that led to an amazing encore of Aretha Franklin "RESPECT" with all listed below sharing the Palace Theater stage for a magical moment. Truly a great-great night for all. MC's of the event were 93Q's Amy Robins and 'The Rebels" Dave Frisina,
 
The best way to tell you of the shows performers is to list them all A-Z..so here they are- Sharon Allen, Terry Bender, Donna Colton, Ashley Cox, Leila Dean, Melissa Gardiner, Marcia Hagan, Moe Harrington, Maureen Henesey, Sarah Hiltbrand, Joanne Jewett, Nancy Kelly, Kate Kolb, Letizia, Miss E, Kim Monroe, Jess Novak, Joanne Perry, Lisa Romano, Susan Royal, Tamaralee Shutt, Robyn Stockdale, Anna Vogal, Kat Dooley- Wandersee
 
The Respect performers were backed by members of the CNY band "Funkadelphia" that included Kristopher Heels, Frank Neubert, Ken Satterfield and out good friend Andy Rudy, Other's musicians included- Kevin Dean, Chris Eves, Brian Golden, Tony Greene, Brett Hobin, Bob Kane, Jeff Martin, Langston Masingale, Leslie Michel. Mark Nanni, Sam Paterelli Tim Robison, Dave Rockower, Jeff Unaitis and Joe Zarr.
 
Throughout the evening many stopped by to say hello including Dave Frisina. Liz Nowak, John Mangicaro, Don Shoudy , Debbie Foley, Tim Robinson, Mark Nanni, Joanne Perry,  Steve Schad, Julie Briggs, Carol Thoryk-O'Leary, Sharon Allen, Susan Royal, Kim Monroe, Royce McManus, Jordan Davies, Tom Honan, MaryKay Manns, Kate Kolb, Jack O Bocchino, Stacey Waterman, Langston Masingale, Leila Dean, Kevin Dean, Andy Rudy to name just a few.

A fantastic evening that we will all remember for a very long time. We applaud there amazing efforts. "Respect'  CNY Celebrates Women in Music was in support of The Centers of St. Camillus.
 

Saturday, October 17, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE"- CHAPTER 151 - OTIS & ALL NIGHT WORKERS, OTIS SMITH & LLOYD BASKIN

This Syracuse University rhythm n blues band was first known on the SU campus as "The Headliners" (1963-64) Billy Elmiger (bass, formerly with the Vanguards), Steve McCord (guitarist formerly with Felix Cavaliere & The Escorts), Herb Flower (drums formerly of the Techniques) and were managed by Joe Davoli. They later who add Lloyd Baskin on keyboard

 Lloyd Baskin and Billy Elmiger went looking for a new lead singer. They found that singer in Otis Smith the former Rhythm Cadet and drummer for Bobby Green & The Hi Fi's was singing in the ward bars in downtown Syracuse. Then a name change from Otis & the Headliners to "All Night Workers". The groups name came from the old Rufus Thomas song "I'm An All Night Worker" a name that finally all members agreed upon. With this new lineup the band became Otis & The All Night Workers,

In the fall of 1965, they recorded the legendary Billy Elmiger tune "Don't Put All Your Eggs in One Basket" (1965) for Round Sound Records a division of Pickwick International. The band had been recommended to Pickwick by their manager NYS lawyer Don Schpak who had a relative working for the label. They reached the studio recorded "Eggs" and used a Pickwick staff written song for the flip side- (by another SU friend, Lou Reed,.Note Lou did not play on this recording) Eggs finally reached #1 on WOLF Radio charts in Syracuse while the band traveled the East Coast stopping as such New York City night clubs as Trudy Hellers & Max's Kansas City while staring the stage with such national acts as Del Shannon & Chuck Berry.

They were then lead to Cameo Records by produced Neil Bogart and a follow up single "Honey and Wine" (1966). It was then on to Mercury Records and the single "Misery" (1967). Otis and the All Night Workers (as they were known locally becoming only one of a few University bands to break off campus and become popular with city teens in clubs like the Brookside & Fayetteville Inn (1964-66), This coming from the exposure they received from WOLF's popular  night time disc jockey Dale Dorman. After a summer at Lake George that members described as a hard grind the band finally broke up in Boston in 1968.

Herb Flower returned to Syracuse awaiting an opening with the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra (also taught at OCC). Flowers would play with the Symphony for many years. Elmiger, Smith and McCord went to reside in New York City and released two albums on Perception Records with a group named "The Albert" (named after a hotel where they all resided). Otis also release a single for Perception "Let Her Go".  Otis Smith was inducted into the Syracuse Area Music Hall of Fame (Sammys). Bandmates- Elmiger, McCord & Flower returned for his induction.
Lloyd William Baskin graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Design, but he turned to music as his profession in 1966. Baskin sang lead and played his Wurlitzer 140 B electric piano on the All Night Workers hit "Don't Put All Your Eggs" recorded in New York City by producer Jerry Vance (Pickwick International) again was released by Round Sound Records.
Meanwhile Lloyd Baskin went on tour with "Jesus Christ Superstar". After his Jesus Christ Superstar days , Lloyd joined the national group "Seatrain". Their first release was a self-titled album '13 Questions". Lloyd is featured on both Capitol Records Seatrain albums "Seatrain" (1971) and "Marblehead Messenger" (1971). But it was there hit single "13 Questions" that propelled the band into the national spotlight.
In the late 1970's Lloyd returned to Central New York joining Mark Hoffmann forming Baskin- Hoffmann & Lee with Sandra Lee (vocals), Gary Goal (bass), Tommy Neuman (drums), Mark Hoffmann (guitar) and Baskin (keyboards & vocals).
Other Lloyd Baskin release include-Martin Mull's album "Days of Wine and Neuroses" Orphan's LP :"More Orphan than Hot', Patricia Rushen's Lp "New".  He was also seen in the feature film "Bugsy: (1990) playing Ciro"s singer. Lloyd resides in Southern California.

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" - CHAPTER 150- THE HOWIE WYETH STORY- From SU To The National Music Scene.

Howard Pyle Wyeth was born on April 22, 1944 in Jersey City, New Jersey. His father was Nathaniel Wyeth (worked as an inventor for the Dupont Corporation. His mother Caroline Pyle, the famous illustrator from Chadd's Ford, Pa. Howie had four brothers Convers, Andy, David and John, a sister Caroline who sadly died as a youth. Howie and his family moved from Northern New Jersey to Chadd's Ford, Pa where they resided for several years before shifting to Hockessin, Delaware (lived till age 14). At the age of 8 he had a very serious case of Polio. But he recovered and played in his high school band and later became a member of the New Jersey All-State Band. Howie Wyeth then studied and received a music degree from Syracuse University, It was at SU that he formed and became leader of the big band the "Sidewinders' (a few years later became Jam Factory). During his years in Syracuse, the Sidewinders played several clubs including Deb's (now Lost Horizon) and the Little Brown Jug. Wyeth's Sidewinders also included Mark Hoffmann, John T. Hall, Bill Storm, Mike Mattia, Steve Marcone, Paul Petruccelli, Charlie Brown, Eddie Freeman and later Ian Taddeo (Stompin Sude Greasers, Alligators) to names just a few.

Wyeth studied percussion with Alan Abel of the Philadelphia Orchestra and was a member of the Syracuse University marching band. He graduated from SU in 1966.
 
He moved to New York City in late 1968 and recorded two albums with "The Albert" (1970-71) that included Syracusan Otis Smith and ex- SU alumni Steve McCord. Paul Petruccelli, Billy Elminger, Louis St Louis and Paul Dickler. He then appeared on James Moody's album "The Teacher" (1970),   followed with Zulema (1974), McKendee Spring (1975) and Leslie West's "Great Fatsby" (1975).
 
Best known for being a drummer he teamed with Bob Dylan on his Rolling Thunder Revue (1974-75) and on Dylan's albums "Desire" (1975), Rolling Thunder Revue (1975), Hard Rain (1976)  and on Bob's hit singles 'Hurricane" and "Mozambique".
 
Then it was on to recording with impressive list - Roger McGuinn (1976 & 1992), Topez (1976-77), Kinky Friedman (1976), Don McLean (1977), Essra Mohawk (1977), Robert Gordon w/ Link Wray (1977-820, Moon Martin (1979), Link Wray (1979 & 1983), Jack Hardy (1979, 89) Rob Stoner (1980), Paul Lockheart (1980), Jack Harty (1984), Christine Lavin (1984,86), Richard Golke (1985-87), Rob MacDonald (1987), Blues Traveler (1990 RIAA Gold Record), Nice Boys from New York (1990), Lonesome Val (1990), Richard Meyer (1992), Suzanne Rhatigene (1992), Richard Shindell (1992), John  Meyer (19940, Michael Parrish 91995), Kinky Friedman (1995), Loup Garou (1996), Christine Lavin (199), John Manson Band (1995), Eric Wood (1997), Chadd Fort Getaway (20030, David Massengill (2005), Lesley West's 'Blood of the Sun 1969-75".

Of course Howie Wyeth worked with many talented musicians that included- Bob Dylan, Rob Stoner, Leslie West, Patti  LaBellem Roger McGuinn, Link Wray, Don Covay, Loudon Wainwright III, Anton Fig, Blues Traveler, Robert Gordon , The Jordanaires, James Moody, Don McLean, Chris Spedding , Richard Gotteher, Martin Moon and many others.
 
He married Rona Morrow in New York City, but eventually divorced. He then had a 17 year relationship with Catherine Wheeler. She was instrumental in bring out the very best in Howie.
 
In recent years Howie Wyeth concentrated on piano, leading is own group in ragtime, blues and early jazz in New York City clubs. His last recording, a cassette 9now a Cd) of ragtime and stride piano called "Chadsford Getaway"(1994). Howie appeared in the motion pictures "Renaldo & Cara" (1978) "Save the Children " (1973), 'Angelo, My Love: (1983) and 'Fried Green Tomatoes " (1991).
 
He was also seen on television on Don Kisrchner's Rock Concert with Robert Gordon, Midnight Special (twice) again with Robert Gordon, ABC's Today Show w/ Kinky Friedman, PBS TV's Buskers with Joe Flood, Michael Douglas Show, ABC's soap opera "One Life to Live, NBC's "The World of John Hammond' with Bob Dylan. And again with Dylan in  NBC's 'Hard Rain Special',  and the Joe Franklin Show.
 
Sadly the very talented Howie Wyeth passed away on March 27, 1996 in New York City at age 51.

Monday, September 14, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE"- CHAPTER 149- THE PASSING OF WALT'S RECORD SHOP GM- EDDIE GRUDYNSKI AT AGE 92

We were saddened to learn of the passing on Eddie Grudynski on Saturday Sept 12, 2015 at age 92. Ed was the general manager-operator of Walt's Record Shop Syracuse's top independent single record store from March 1951 through July 1980. First called "The Record Shop' its first location was at 114 West Jefferson Street ( Loew Building) when it opened in March 1951. It then moved around the corner to 352 So. Salina Street just two stores north of Loew's Theater (now called The Landmark Theater) in 1959. Owned by Walt Kandziela but operated by his brother-in-law Ed Grudynski. Walt's Record Shop finally closed in July 1980.

Other key employees who worked at Walt Record included- Gary Grudynski (Eddie's son), Dave Ridgeway, Don Libensky,  Gary Podsiedlik, Larry Liberman, Don Bombard, Guy Capone, Mark Kalsuga, Dan Elliott, Steve Wasnick, Louie Everding, Kevin Adams and Gary Bennett.

All major acts would stop by Walt's Record Shop when in Central New York including- Johnny Cash, Tony Bennett, Gene Pitney, The Rascals, Al Martino, The Lettermen, Buck Owens, Jerry Vale, and many more. Walt's was Syracuse last record store where customer could audition 45 & 33 vinyl recordings before buying them. More records were sold by Walt's employee influences than any store I known of. And that sales technique even influenced me.

Sunday, August 9, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE"- CHAPTER 148 - WOLF- WNDR RADIO (DINOSAUR RADIO) CELEBRATE 75th ANNIVERSARY WITH GALA REUNION EVENT- AUGUST 8, 2015- MANY FORMER GREAT BROADCASTERS RETURN TO SYRACUSE

August 8, 2015- WOLF & WNDR Radio celebrated their 75th Anniversary. To share this event the Dinosaur Radio group held a full day gala reunion of former employees including  broadcasters, engineers, sales professionals, management and those who contributed to the stations success through the years.

The schedule for August 8th was as follows- 9AM- 12 noon- live broadcast on Dinosaur Radio family of stations with interviews of many of the returning  greats from the 1950's to the present day (note- all recorded on air w/ Nick Caplan, Bob Brown, Tony Fallico, Lee Goodman, Melissa Midgeley, John Schrack). Also recorded special interview segments to be use for many history projects in the future by Ron Wray . In the afternoon a special luncheon for all attendees. Also one hour air shifts by Dusty Rhodes, Dick Snyder and Peter C. Cavanaugh 5-7 PM.

The evening consisted of historic fun for all attendees and fans at Pensabene's Casa Grande 8-11 PM with music provided by two of Syracuse's great bands- The Nightcaps (Dave Novak, Bill Weiss, Don Shoudy, Bob Papaleoni, Al McNeil) and Smokin (Frank Rhodes, Mike Ranger, Bob Lindburg, Jim Laretta). Hundreds of pictures were taken all the day by Lee Goodman.

Here is a list of those who returned to our historic broadcast facility between 9 AM- 11 PM for a great day of WOLF-WNDR history...

Dusty Rhodes, Peter C. Cavanaugh, Dick Snyder, Windy Craig, Dan O'Neil,  Jim Davies, Gary Vann, Ron Wood, Dick Mastriano, Phil Market, Howie Castle, Don Ryan, John Gabriel, Rick Charles, Tony "Oscar" Davis, Tom Shine, Rick Gary, Pete McKay, Lennie Bilotti, "Stereo Steve" Becker, Phil Wells, Mike Andrews, Dave Mance, Dave Alexander, Terry Beacham,  Tom Owens, Dave Bullard, Dennis Sick, John Bunkfeldt, Ted Monto, Lee Goodman, Bob Brown, Tony Fallico, John Schrack, Gary Michaels, Melissa Midgeley,  Bretague Pidgeon, Nick Caplan, Craig Fox, Ron Wray,

Also Debbie Leonard Koekebacker (daughter of "Dandy Dan" Leonard & his grandson Todd Robertson) and Linda O'Brien (wife of Jim O'Brien). Good friends- Chet Andrews of Syracuse One Stop and Eddie G. (age 92) & Gary of Walt's Record Shop.

Famed Syracuse Musicians attending Sandy Bigtree, Loren Barrigar, Al Wolf, Mickey Palumbo, Dan Elliott, Tim Cleary, Ted Storto, Mark Hoffmann, Courtney Woods, Don Fitzgerald, Scotty Trudell, Dave Novak, Don Shoudy, Bill Weiss, Bob Papaleoni, Al McNeil, Frank Rhodes, Mike Ranger, Bob Lindburg, Dave Soule, Mickey Nicotra, Jim Laretta and many others.

A great day of WOLF-WNDR Radio history that we will remember of a long-long time. Thanks to all.....

Monday, July 27, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" - CHAPTER 147- SAY GOODBYE TO SPORTS O RAMA 2015

It was a big day back on December 17, 1959 when Sports O Rama opened on Route 11 in Mattydale, NY. We first remember that fine business as the newest roller skating and archery range in Central New York, But soon area disc jockeys WOLF's  Bob Dell and Andy Andrews starred bring national, regional and local recording artists in for major music and sporting events. Though the years its name would change (Dance & Skate and others) and later be vacant for many years. The property and building would be sold to Dunkin Donuts and scheduled for demolition in August 2015. The end to another fame Rock & Roll and entertainment venue that bought us many great memories though the years.

I've listed below the many national recording artists  I remembered who performed at Sports O Rama. Followed by local and famous celeb's who graced the Sports O Rama stage-floor.

Gene Pitney, Del Shannon, Bobby Vee & The Shadows, Buddy Know & Rhythm Orchids, 4 Seasons, Brian Hyland, Duane Eddy, Dion, The Searchers, Dovells, Bobby Lewis, Bobby Vinton, Ral Donner, Regents (Barbara Ann), Jean Thomas (Moon River), Little Peggy March, Hot Toddys, Ersel Hickey, Dick & Dee Dee, Troy Shondell (This Time), Bobby Comstock, Ronnie Dio & The Prophets, The McCoy (Rick Derringer- Hang On Sloopy), The Seeds (Pushin To Hard), Outsiders (Time Won't Let Me), Shadows of Knight, ? and the Mysterians (96 Tears), Ron Cochran, Restrictions, Charlie Spivak Orchestra, Candi Scott, Jac-Lin Combo.

Local CNY artists included- The Sabers (Ron Lauback), Keystones (Hal Robinson), Eternals (Tom Rozzano, Freddy Simmons), The Vikings, Paul and the Velvets, Bel Larks, Little Linda, Duke Dixon & Singbillies, Jimmy Ashby & Trebletones, Eddie Williamson Orchestra and many-many more.

Other famous names include
Ernie Davis (SU Heisman Trophy Winner, Willie Moscone (World Billard & Trick Shot Champion), Frankie Frisch (National Baseball Hall of Famer), Coach Ben S.(Syracuse University Football Coach).

It's now just a great memory- Sports O Rama..you be missed, but always remembered in our rock & roll hearts....

Thursday, July 2, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE"- CHAPTER 146 - SYRACUSE MUSIC - SONGS THAT CHARTED NO 1 ON JULY 4TH THOUGH THE 1960-80'S ALONG WITH CNY HAPPENINGS JULY 4


SYRACUSE MUSIC CHARTS # 1 RECORDS - Listing  July 4th, 1959-1988
          From WOLF, WNDR, BIG 50's Weekly Music Survey Sheets 

1959 - Big Hunk of Love- Elvis
1960 - Mule Skinner Blues- The Fendermen
1961 - Quarter to Three- Gary "U.S". Bonds
1962 - Cry Myself to Sleep- Del Shannon
1963 - Surf City- Jan & Dean
            Fooba Wooba John- Sam & The Twisters
1964 - Rag Doll- 4 Seasons
1965 - Save Your Heart For Me- Gary Lewis & The Playboys
1966 - Wild Thing - The Troggs
1967 - Ding Dong The Witch is Dead- Fifth Estate
1968 - Mama's & Papa's
1969 - In The Year 25 / 25 -  Zager and Evans
1970 - How Can You Mend a Broken Heart- Bee Gees
1971 - Don't Pull Your Love - Hamilton, Joe Frank & Reynolds
1972 - Lean on Me - Bill Withers
1973 - Playground in My Mind- Clint Holmes
           Smoke on the Water- Deep Purple
1974 - Billy Don't Be a Hero- Bo Donaldson & Heywoods
1975 - Love Will Keep You Together- Captain & Tennille
1976 - Afternoon Delight - Starline Vocal Band
1977 - I'm In You - Peter Frampton
1978 - Use To Be My Girl - O'Jays
1979 - Ring My Bell - Anita Ward
1980 - Its Still Rock & Roll To Me - Billy Joel
1981 - Jessie's Girl- Rick Springfield
1984 - Dancing In The Dark- Bruce Springfield
1987 - Alone - Heart
1988 - Dirty Diana - Michael Jackson

A FEW CNY MUSIC HAPPENINGS JULY 5 THOUGHT THE YEARS

1963 - Loretta Lynn - NYS Fair Coliseum
1964 - Baron Daemon - Seneca Falls Hootnany Show
1965 - Dee Dee Sharpe w/ Ronnie Dio & Prophets- Little York Lake Park
            WIlmer & The Dukes- Hewitts / Fairmount
1966 - Faron Young- Suburban Park-Manlius
1971 - Ides of March- Suburban Park- Manlius
1973 - Jimmy Cavallo- Mr Mikes
1979 - Ramones w/ Flashcubes - Uncle Sam's
1980 - The Works - Cornestone
1981- Alec Star - Lakeshore Sylvan Beach
1982 - Whizz Kidds - Lost Horizon
1983- Alec Star - Lost Horizon

SYR BANDS THAT SONGS REACHED  # 1 ON RADIO CHARTS

Sam & The Twisters-  June 29 & July 6, 1963
Otis & All Night Workers - Dec 4, 1965
The Sermon - Sept 3 & Sept 10, 1969

Wednesday, June 10, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" CHAPTER 145 - DIO DAY CORTLAND- JUNE 20, 2015

DIO DAY CORTLAND 2015

The Ronnie James Dio Music Scholarship Fund was formed in 2010 after the untimely death of Cortland's own Ronnie James Dio (Padavona). Ronnie became an internationally know performer not only for his incredible vocal ability, but also as a world- class songwriter and record producer.
 
The Dio Day Music Scholarship Committee has been able to award several $1,000 scholarships over the past few years in the name of Ronnie James Dio to  local students, who are pursuing a career in music, and who are chosen by their teachers and the school music staff. This has been possible by generous contributions and donations from the community as well as proceeds from fund raising events.
 
This years fund raising event was held on Saturday- June 20, 2015 at J.M. McDonald Sports Complex in Cortland, NY  12-10 pm, Below is a listing of performances. Thanks for supporting this worthy cause and for keeping Ronnie's music alive.

Dio Day Cortland 2015-  Performance Schedule

12:00 pm    Jim VanDeuson

1:00 pm      Blue Monday  (Terry Mingle, Brian Mingle)

2:00 pm      Tractor Beam

3:00 pm      Timeline Blues Brothers Revue
                   Ted Storto, Mike Ferrante, Rance Walters, Curt Smith, Shane Storto

4:00 pm      Black & Blue (Dan Austin, Rick Schell)

5:00 pm      Cafferty Band
                   Joe Leo, Steve Corey, Dan Austin, Brian Miles, Danielle Rausa others

6:00 pm      Blind Spots (Matty Walsh)

7:00 pm     Tailor Made  (Tink Bennett)

8:00 pm     The Rods (Rock Feinstein, Carl Canedy, Garry Bordonaro)
                                    Special Guest- Veronica Freeman

9:00 pm     Sons of Sabbath

Thanks to all bands, crew members, sponsors and all volunteers

Ronnie James Dio- Music Scholarship Award Winners

2015  John Gerhard

2013  Breanna Jones

2012  Aaron Kriever

Thursday, May 28, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" CHAPTER 144 - CNY MUSIC GREAT LOREN BARRIGER HONORED BY HIS HIGH SCHOOL- MAY 27, 2015

If being inducted into the Syracuse Area Music all of Fame (March 2015) and touring the world playing his music aren't  enough. The famed guitar/vocalist Loren Barriger was honored on evening of May 27, 2015 by Jordan-Eldbridge High School with its "Graduate of Distinction" award. It highest honor in its very first class... Congrats my friend. Your presents make Central New York a greater place to live.

Saturday, May 9, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" CHAPTER 143- RONNIE JAMES DIO 5TH YEAR MEMORIAL EVENTS HAPPEN IN LOS ANGELES MAY 15-17, 2015 (updated)

The Ronnie James Dio 5th Year Memorial Events will be held in Los Angles May 15-17, 2015. A great salute to our friend Ronnie that will include a Friday May 15- Bowl for Ronnie in Studio City, Ca funds to benefit Ronnie's "Stand Up and Shout" Cancer Fund....Saturday May 16 (1-5 PM) an event to celebrate Ronnie's music for all his fans at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in the Hollywood Hills, that will include live music and many longtime Dio fans sharing there memories. CNYers Ron Wray & David "Rock" Feinstein (Rock performed "Mistreated: and spoke sharing his memories of Ronnie) will both attend Saturday concert event.  Saturday May 17 will be a Ride For Ronnie Motorcycle Rally & BBQ  with performances by Eddie Money, Gabbie Rae, Great White and Dio Disciples and others. See Ronnie James Dio website for more information on all three Dio Memorial events

During the three day events you could see the following Wendy Dio, Eddie Truck, Geezer Butler, Jack Black, David "Rock " Feinstein, Kyle Gass, Craig Goldy, Simon Wright, Scott Warren, Jimmy Bain, Lita Ford, Eddie Money, Rudy Sarzo , Christian Martucci, Vinnie Appice, Ann Boleyn, Rowan Robertson, Oni Logan,  Bjorn Englen, John Payne, Roy Mayorgam,  Sean McNabb, Rough Cut Band, Great White Band, Hellion, Lorraine Lewis, Dean Schachtel  and many others. Along with great video interview from Rob Halford, Chris Jericho, Ripper Owens, Geezer Butler and others.

Many thanks go out to Wendy Dio, Dean Schachtel, Rock & Denise Feinstein, Mary Kusnier for making me feel so welcome..

On a very sad note- our very good friend Dean Schachtel (Board member of RJD "Stand Up and Shout " Cancer Fund and GM of Niji Entertainment and one of Ronnie's key right hand men ) passed away very suddenly on Monday June 18 following the Dio 5 yr Memorial weekend. We were all shocked as Dean had truely made my day May 16 at Ronnie's Memorial Service so enjoyable. I miss you my friend.....

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" CHAPTER 142- DINOSAUR RADIO HISTORY OF SYRACUSE ROCK N ROLL "THEN and NOW' REUNITES THE SANDY BIGTREE BAND ON MAY 31, 2015

Dinosaur Radio History of Syracuse Rock n Roll "Then and Now" Next live event #10 was Sunday May 31, 2015 and held at Pensabene's Casa Grande (Syracuse, NY) and with feature the Sandy Bigtree Band (Gary Lavancher, Dan "Cato" Eaton, Jimmy Johns, Pat Hodson and Sammy Hall of Famer Sandy Bigtree). Time 5-8 PM, doors opened at 4 PM. Admission is FREE.

Along with the Sandy Bigtree Band that evening will be The History of Syracuse Music All-Star Band featuring 16 of CNY's musical guests including- Buke Badikian, Ted Boileau, Mike Ferrante, Mark Hoffmann, Ed McBarron, Skip Murphy, Dave Novak, Frank Rhodes, Steve Schad, Don Shoudy, Curt Smith, Shane Storto, Ted Storto, Scotty Trudell, Bill Weiss & Mark Wildrick.. These musicians have or still perform in many of CNY best bands including- Timeline, Stroke, Blacklites, Letizia & Z Band, Nightcaps, Cross Creek, Coachmen, Hoffmann Family Band, Ad Ventures, Skip Murphy's Merry Pranksters,  3's A Crowd, El Kabong, Fab Cats, Carman Licitra & The Viking, Sermon, Jam Factory, Out of the Blue  and others. They will perform over 20+ of your all-time favorite danceable songs.

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" - CHAPTER 141- PASSING OF 1950'S VOCAL GROUP LEADER OF THE EMERALDS TOM ROYAL

On a sad note we report the passing of Thomas M. Royal April 18, 2015 at age 81. Tom was the leader of the vocal group "The Emeralds" (1955-57) and the father of the very talented Susan Royal famed drummer in many CNY bands/ Below a history of The Emeralds.
 
The Emeralds  Syracuse vocal group (1955-57) consisted of  leader Tom Royal (age 22), Greg Tierney (age 16), James Royal (age 18) and James Fagan (age 18). This great group never released any songs professionally but did have a four-song demo that included their classic song "School Boys Love' (also Red Top) that is included in Ron Wray's "History of Syracuse Music" album series.
 
The Emeralds earliest performance we can find dates back to October 13, 1956 at the VA Hospital for their "Helping Hands" event. That day they shared the stage with the Bigtree Sisters (Norma, Jean & Sandy), Melo Wiley and others. Next they played a show billed as "The Great Record Hop" at the Jefferson Street Armory (Feb 8, 1957) for WFBL Radio DJ Bill Thorpe & Chet Whiteside (WNDR). They appeared in Feb 1957 on Jim Deline Show on WSYR TV-3 and then at the Syracuse War Memorial during half-time at a Syracuse Nationals NBA game vs the Rochester Royals on Feb 14, 1957. Next Emeralds sang at the Jewish Community Center (March 2, 1957) with the Orange Peels.
 
November 1, 1957. brought the Emeralds to a Nottingham High football game for a stunning half-time performance then ended the year Dec 20, 1957 playing a Radio Talent show at the War Memorial with headliner Thurston Harris who had a national hit with "Little Bitty Pretty One". Also on that show was local area performers- The Eldaros (Bobby Green), Jennie Lee Lambert, Rhythm Cadets (Bebo Singleton & Otis Smith), Tex Roe (Country singer) , Johnny Carlo, Bobby Hosid and others.
 
April 18, 1958 The Emeralds shared the Lincoln Auditorium stage with Louis Armstrong and His All-Star band. A few weeks alter (May 7, 1958) came the Syracuse Youth Rally at the War Memorial with the 4 Vagabonds, Dick Van Dyke and Baseball Hall of Famer- Jackie Robinson. Then traveled to Rochester appearing at the Cotton Club.
 
A great career and a legendary great vocal group that we are still talking about to this day.
 

Sunday, April 12, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE- CHAPTER 140- TONY TRISCHKA, PETER ASHER & JEFF ALAN ROSS MAKE SURPRISE APPEARANCE AT DINOSAUR RADIO'S HISTORY OF SYRACUSE- ROCK N ROLL "THEN & NOW" LIVE CROSS CREEK REUNION SHOW APRIL 12, 2015 AT PENSABENE'S (UPDATED)

When your involved in music every once in a while something wonderful happens when you least expect it. Well we can put Sunday April 12th, 2015 (5-8 PM) on that list. That evening Dinosaur Radio's History of Syracuse Rock n Roll "Then and Now" live events showcased Creek Creek (reunion) along with Skip Murphy's Merry Pranksters at Pensabene's Casa Grande in Syracuse, NY

As the afternoon progressed wonderful things happened even before band soundchecks- first world famous musician Tony Trischka (banjo great) arrived unexpectedly. Tony had just performed in London, England took a flight to New York City and then drove to Syracuse. His first words to me "Ron I just had to be here". He referred to joining on stage his former Cross Creek band mates in a very rare reunion performance.

As the show started Skip Murphy's Merry Pranksters filled the room with hot danceable music as always with veterans Dave Liddy, Mark  Gibson. Mike Ranger. Sharon Allen, Dave Schneider, Wayne Stevens, George Newton & Sammy Hall of Famer-Skip Murphy.

Then it was time for one of Syracuse's greatest all-time groups Cross Creek to take the stage. Dave Novak, John Cadley, Danny Weiss, John Dancks, Fred Lawrence, George Newton, Jimmy Johns and the great Tony Trischka. A great performance with great voices, and superb musicians. As we took in  I remember thinking this is one events that we'll talk about for a long while.

As the evening worn down in walked Sammy hall of Famer David Rezak with friends Peter Asher (Peter & Gordon) along with Jeff Alan Ross (of Badfinger) who were in town speaking at Syracuse University classes. Well I thought this was great they came to say hello. Well that was not the case, Peter Asher & Jeff Allen Ross came on stage and preformed many of their hits with Cross Creek.- I Go To Pieces, World Without Love, No Matter What, Take It Easy, 6 Days of the Road and more.

All in attendance were shocked and amazed that these superstars came unannounced and performed with Cross Creek . The full home, stood, danced, and applauded. At the end I stood their amazed at what had just happened, three of the greats (Trischka, Asher & Ross) all came and performed right here in Syracuse. Now that a great piece of Syracuse Music History.
 
Attending from Dinosaur Radio group were- Nick Caplan, Lee Goodman, Craig Fox, Melissa Midgely, Tony Fallico and Ron Wray.
 

Wednesday, March 18, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" - CHAPTER 139 - CNY BROADCASTING LEGEND RON BEE PASSES AWAY- MARCH 18, 2015



It is with deep sadness that we report the passing (March 18, 2015)  of CNY Broadcast legend Ron Bee after a long bout with Leukemia

A native of North Syracuse, NY,  Ron would go on to graduate from the University of Maryland and a Vietnam War veteran to joining the staff as new director at WOLF Radio AM-1490 in Syracuse (1972-81). He was half of the legendary morning show teaming with Rick Gary as "Rick & Ron".

Ron shift to WRRB FM (1981-84), WSYR (1984-85), WSEN (1985-90). WEZG (1990) and finally a number of years on WBBS- B-104FM teaming as morning host with Becky Palmer.  On November 9, 2004, they received the Country Music Associations award as "Best Country Music Radio Personality". That Ron always spoke of as the greatest broadcasting honor of his life.

Ron retired from broadcasting in 2007 after a auto accident had damaged his vocal cords. Ron & his family would relocate to Phoenix, Arizona

In mid 2014 Ron was diagnosed with leukemia and fought by opting for a stem cell transplant. Sadly our good friend Ron Bee passes away March 18, 2015. Ron Bee was a true CNY Broadcasting Giant that will be long remembered. I was proud to have worked with him and to have called him my friend....

Sunday, March 8, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE"- CHAPTER 137- SYRACUSE AREA MUSIC AWARDS- MARCH 5, 2015 - BOBBY COMSTOCK's HALL OF FAME INDUCTION SPEECH BY RON WRAY

Bobby Comstock was inducted into the Syracuse Area Music Hall of Fame at the Dinosaur Bar B Que- Syracuse, NY the evening on Thursday March 5, 2015- The following is his induction speech given by Syracuse Music Historian- Ron Wray.


When talking to Bobby Comstock this morning I remembered back to receiving my best Christmas present- my first transistor radio with a earplug so I could listen to music into the night.  That's when I first heard Ithaca's "Bobby Comstock and the Counts". After two local releases Bobby was signed by Herb Abramson of Atlantic Records. His first major release "Tennessee Waltz" was played in over 17 countries around the world. This led to a week of TV appearances with America's greatest disc jockey Alan Freed. The same man who coined the term "Rock & Roll". Plus a spot on Alan Freed's 5th Anniversary Labor Day Shows at the Brooklyn Fox Theater- September 1959.
 
He later signed with Swan Records, Bobby's song "Let's Stomp" was performed by none other than the Beatles during their early days in Hamburg, Germany and the records flip side "I Want To Do It" was so popular that it was played by every band and heard on every college campus in Central New York and maybe in all the Northeast.
 
This led to a number of appearances on Dick Clark's "American Bandstand" & Clark's "Saturday Night Beechnut" Television Shows. Clark also added Bobby to his famed "Caravan of Stars" traveling tours. He also  performed on shows with the Rolling Stones and Dave Clark 5. Next came a performance on Shindig with Chubby Checker and working with producer Don Kirschner known by all for his late night "Rock Concert" national television shows.
 
And finally asked by Richard Nader to become music director of his "Rock Revival Tours" for 20+ years (1969-90). This included stops in every major city including Los Angeles, Boston, Washington and New York's Madison Square Garden (over 50 times). He backed up the likes of Chuck Berry (over 300 times), Bo Diddley, the Shirelles, Gary "U.S." Bonds and many more Rock & Roll greats. Then on to motion pictures, in 1973 in Richard Nader's "Let The Good Times Roll".
 
What an amazing career with thousands of concert appearances. recording 20+ singles, his own album, a producer, conductor, and arranger and final in a feature film. Bobby Comstock by the way is also heard playing on national hits by- The Angel's "My Boyfriends Back", Freddy Cannon (Patti Baby), & The Strangeloves "I Want Candy". to name a few.
 
Bobby Comstock has become a true Central New York musical legend. It is truly a great honor for me to welcome Bobby Comstock into the Syracuse Area Music Hall of Fame -    Ron Wray


Thursday, March 5, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE" - CHAPTER 136 - SYRACUSE AREA MUSIC AWARDS 2015 - HALL OF FAME CLASS AND AWARD WINNERS (Updated)

The Syracuse Area Music Awards held their 2015 Press Conference at the Palace Theater. MC- Joe Whiting announced the 2015 SAMMYS Hall of Fame Class- Loren Barriger, Bobby Comstock, Chris Goss and the band The Works. The Sammys Music Educator Award to- David Rezak and Sammys Lifetime Achievement Award to- Jon Fishman. Whiting also announced the finalist in the many music categories that will be presented at the Sammy Award Show at the Palace Theater on the evening of March 6, 2015


The Syracuse Area Music Awards Hall of Fame Induction was  held upstairs at the Dinosaur Bar B Que Thursday evening March 5th starting at 7 PM....Sammys Hall of Fame MC- Dave Frisina.  Tickets for this historic event were SOLD OUT in advance.. The 2015 Sammys Hall of Fame Class included- Loren Barriger (presenter- Austin Gravelding), Bobby Comstock (presenter- Ron Wray), Chris Goss, (presenter- John Mangicaro), The Works (presenter Dave Frisina). Sammys Music Educator Award- Dave Rezak (presented by Stacey Waterman), Sammys Lifetime Achievement Award- Jon Fishman (presented by his father Len Fishman). Note all were in attendance.


Friday March 6, 2015- Sammy Award Show was held at The Palace Theater (Eastwood) starting at 7 PM. Tickets $20. Performing acts that evening are as follow- Joanne Shenandoah, Grupo Pagan, Ruddy Well Band, Scars and Stripes and The Works. Sammy Award Show MC -Skip Murphy


2015 SAMMY Award Winner's-

Best Alterative                    -  Leah Shenandoah

Best Americana                  -  Jeffrey Pepper Rogers

Best Blues                            -  Castle Creek

Best Country                       -  Megan Lee

Best Hard Rock                  -  Nineball

Best Hip Hop                      -  Nick Case a.k.a. Decoy

Best Jam Band                   -  Joe Driscoll & Selou Kouyate

Best Jazz                             -  Nick Ziobro

Best Pop                              -  Nick & Noah

Best Other Styles               -  Samba  Larania

Best R & B                          -  Brownskin Band

Best Rock                            -  William Grutt

Best Singer- Songwriter    -  Alanna-Marie Boudreau

Brian Bourke Award        -  Spring Street Band
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Peoples Choice- Best Artist -              Briana Jessie

People Choice Award- Best Venue     Keys Canal Side

People Choice Award- Best Festival   Fox Fest

Wednesday, March 4, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE- CHAPTER 138- ONONDAGA HISTORICAL ASSN. OPENS "NEW" MUSEUM EXHIBIT- "SALT CTY ROCK"- THE HISTORY OF ROCK N ROLL IN SYRACUSE".

February 20, 2015- The Onondaga Historical Association held their grand opening gala of their museum display "Salt City Rock"-The History of Rock n Roll in Syracuse.  This great opening event featured live music performance by Sammy Hall of Famer's Gary Frenay & Arty Lenin (w/ Cathy Lamanna)  along with Phantom Chemistry Inclusive Or, Stonelord Brothers.

The display that will be in place for six months with feature concert programs & poster, sheet music, recordings 45, 33, 78, cylinders,  cassettes, 8 Track tapes, compact discs and others styles, band drum heads, classic photos, classic guitars  and clothing used by CNY's though the year and much more. A great place to visit for a look back at out CNY Rock music history.

I was proud to be a part of this event and on opening night seeing any old friends including Gary Frenay, Arty Lenin, Cathy Lamanna, David Soule, Chris, Baker, Carl Cafarelli, Russ Tarby and member of The Trend to name just a few.

Thursday, January 1, 2015

HISTORY OF SYRACUSE MUSIC "OFFICIAL SITE' - CHAPTER 135 - NEW YEARS EVE 2014 IN CENTRAL NEW YORK

New Year Eve December 31, 2014 rolled in with some amazing Syracuse Musical footnotes-

First Taylor Swift performed live on ABC TV's  (WSYR TV-9) Dick Clark's Rockin New Years Eve with Ryan Seacrest singing songs from her 2014 #1 selling album "1989". But the CNY music news is that she was backed up on the Times Square stage by two great Syracuse musicians- Wayne Tucker & Chad Brown (on trumpet & saz). These two gentlemen you may remember performed in CNY along with the talented Nick Frenay & Spencer Murphy. (thanks Skip).

Meanwhile at David "Rock" Feinstein's Hollywood Restaurant in Cortland, NY..Sammy Hall of Famer Dave Porter & Bob took the stage at 10AM to rock in the New Year. Just before midnight Dave was joined on stage by another Sammy Hall of Famer- David "Rock" Feinstein along with Garry Bordonaro (both members of world traveling band "The Rods") They performed the great ELF/ Ronnie James Dio song "Hoochie Koochie Lady". A great tribute to our great friend Ronnie. I was honored to me there. In attendance were many of CNY's great player- Dave Porter, Rock Feinstein, Steve Corey, Garry Bordonaro, Dick Bottoff, Steve Starmer, Joe Leo, Mike Donohue and Terry & Brian Mingle. A very special memorial group photo was taken to celebrate the moment.

Other New Year Eve 2014 CNY Happenings included- to name a few

Fabulous Ripcords at Ridge in Chittenango, NY
Castle Creek (Kim Monroe & Chris Eves) at Good Nature Brewing- Hamilton, NY
Letizia & The Z Band at Turning Stone Casino
Johnny Rawls at Dinosaur Bar B Que
Mark Hoffmann & Swing This at Small Plates
Sophistafunk at Funk n Waffles, Downtown Syracuse
Better Than Bowling at Flat Iron Grill
Joe Whiting & Terry Quill at Best Western- Carrier Circle
Grit n Grace at Club Aqua
Redline at Hilton Garden Inn
Scars N Stripes at Mac's Bad Art Bar
Timeline at SU Sheraton Inn-University
Bob Holz Band at The Office
Mark Zane at Krabby Kirks
Lisa Lee Trio at Brae Loch- Cazenovia
Dirtroad Ruckus at Timber Tavern
Mike Estep Band at JP's Tavern- Baldwinsville
Gary Dunes & Del-Tunes at Maplewood Inn, Liverpool
Dan Elliott & Monterays at Turning Stone Casino
Lyicado & Dappophir at Westcott Theater
Tom Rozzano- Turning Stone Casino
Ronnie Leigh- Turning Stone Casino
Soul Mine- Turning Stone Casino
Beattle Brothers- Turning Stone Casino
Cousin Jake at Mattydale V,F,W,
Under The Gun at Clarion Inn
40 Below Party at Landmark Theater
Southern Comfort Band w/ Tom Gilbo at Am Legion- Liverpool
Paul Davie at Mohegan Manor- Baldwinsville
Quickchange at American Legion-Manlius