The event will be live-streamed on Facebook and YouTube.

The SAMMYS: Celebrating Local Music Excellence

The SAMMYS, an acronym for the Sacramento Area Music Awards, is an annual event that recognizes and celebrates the best in local music.

The event will take place on March 15, 2025, at the Oncology Center in Syracuse, NY.

The Syracuse Area Music Awards: Celebrating the Best of Local Music

The Syracuse Area Music Awards, also known as the SAMMYS, is an annual event that recognizes and celebrates the outstanding contributions of musicians, music venues, and music industry professionals in the Syracuse area. The awards ceremony is a highly anticipated event in the local music scene, bringing together music enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the honorees themselves to celebrate the best of local music.

History of the SAMMYS

The SAMMYS have a rich history, dating back to 2006 when the first awards ceremony was held. Since then, the event has grown in popularity and recognition, with each year’s ceremony showcasing the best of local music talent. The awards are presented in various categories, including Best New Artist, Best Band, Best Female Vocalist, and more.

Categories and Nominees

The SAMMYS feature a range of categories that recognize the diversity and talent of the local music scene. Some of the categories include:

The nominees for the 2025 SAMMYS have been announced, and the public can now vote for their favorite artists and bands. Voting is free and open to the public, making it a great opportunity for music fans to get involved and support their favorite artists.

The Hall of Fame Induction

In addition to the awards ceremony, the SAMMYS also feature the induction of six honorees into the SAMMYS Hall of Fame.

The Early Years: 1970s-1980s

Alecstar’s early years were marked by a mix of rock and pop influences, with a focus on catchy hooks and guitar-driven melodies. The band’s sound was characterized by George Mahoney’s powerful vocals and the guitar work of Jack Murray. The lineup changed over the years, with various musicians contributing to the band’s music. Key influences on Alecstar’s sound include:

• The Eagles
• Fleetwood Mac
• The Rolling Stones
• Aerosmith

The Rise to Fame: 1990s-2000s

Alecstar’s popularity began to grow in the 1990s, with the release of their album “Alecstar” in 1995.

The band’s early sound was rooted in folk and rock music, with influences from Bob Dylan and The Beatles. As the group evolved, they incorporated elements of psychedelia and garage rock into their music.

The Formation of Wilkesbury Brigade

In the late 1960s, the music scene in Chicago was thriving, with various bands and artists emerging from the city’s vibrant underground. It was during this time that Dan Elliott and Ronnie Leigh, two aspiring musicians, decided to form a band.

A Life of Music and Education

Holly McCoy’s passion for music and education has been a driving force in her career, shaping her into the accomplished educator she is today. Born and raised in Syracuse, New York, McCoy’s love for music was evident from a young age. She began playing the piano at the age of 5 and went on to study music and education at the College of Central New York (OCC) and Nazareth University.

Early Years and Education

McCoy’s educational background laid the foundation for her future career.

“Remembering that music is a form of emotional communication is important,” Forger said. “Too many people view recording as a technical experience. It is important to understand technology and be able to control it, but it’s the music at center stage. It’s the song people remember, not the recording system.” Tickets for the Hall of Fame Induction dinner are available for $30 at syracuseareamusic.com/tickets. Free online streaming of the event will also be available at facebook.com/thesammyssyracuse, courtesy of Meier’s Creek Brewing Company. * * * * * 2025 Syracuse Area Music Awards Nominees BEST JAZZ Bob Holz – Night Watch

The CNY Jazz Orchestra is a unique ensemble that has been making waves in the jazz scene with their eclectic and innovative approach to the genre. Their latest album, “If a White Horse from Jerusalem Were to Ride into My Bedroom”, is a testament to their creativity and musical prowess.

The Origins of the CNY Jazz Orchestra

The CNY Jazz Orchestra’s story begins in the early 2000s, when a group of musicians from different backgrounds and disciplines came together to form a collective. The name “CNY” stands for “China, New York”, reflecting the orchestra’s diverse roots and the blending of Eastern and Western musical traditions. The orchestra’s founding members were drawn to jazz from different parts of the world, including China, the United States, and Europe. They were united by a shared passion for the genre and a desire to push its boundaries.

The Half/Cubes – A Brief History The Half/Cubes were a short-lived but influential band from the 1980s. Formed in 1982, the group consisted of four members: Jeff Gordon, Mike McGrath, Steve “Tabula Rasa” McGrath, and Mike’s brother, Mike. The band’s name was inspired by the popular children’s toy, the Rubik’s Cube, but with a twist – they were half-cubes, as they were only three-quarters of the way through their musical journey.

Early Years and Sound

The Half/Cubes’ early years were marked by a mix of punk, new wave, and post-punk influences. Their music was characterized by catchy hooks, driving rhythms, and a dash of humor. The band’s sound was a unique blend of the raw energy of punk and the more refined sensibilities of new wave. Key characteristics of their sound: + Catchy hooks and melodies + Driving rhythms and beats + A dash of humor and wit + Influences from punk, new wave, and post-punk

The Rise to Fame

The Half/Cubes gained a significant following in the mid-1980s, particularly among the college crowd. Their music was featured in various college radio stations and became a staple of the underground music scene. The band’s popularity was further boosted by their energetic live performances, which often featured elaborate costumes and stage sets. Notable achievements: + Featured on college radio stations + Became a staple of the underground music scene + Known for their energetic live performances

The Decline and Legacy

Despite their popularity, the Half/Cubes’ career was cut short due to internal conflicts and creative differences.

The Curated Playlist: A Journey Through Unconventional Sounds

The Lesgoooya Mixtape 2 Premium is a carefully crafted playlist that takes listeners on a sonic journey through the diverse and eclectic world of underground music. With a focus on showcasing the unique styles and sounds of emerging artists, this playlist is a must-listen for fans of experimental and avant-garde music.

Featured Artists