The Long Island Music Hall of Fame is homeward bound and opened its doors in Stony Brook after two decades of planning the nonprofit’s first physical facility. On Friday November 25th, LIMEHOF celebrated its grand opening with a preview for former inductees and the media.
Guests and former inductees were treated to performances by Long Island Music Hall of Famers, including Randy Jackson from Zebra. We were treated the grand tour of this building which holds so much history. Visitors will note the wall of photos that adorn the entryway which reflects the well-spring of talent from Long Island. Currently there’s an exhibit on the Long Island Club scene from the 1960’s through the 80’s. Members dontated musical instruments, memorabilia, including one of Billy Joel’s motorcycles, Joan Jett’s Jaguar and Dee Snyder’s wardrobe.
It’s a place that’s gonna give Long Islanders, a sense of community, a sense of pride. I dare anyone to find a place not just in the country, but in the world with as much musical talent that has come from one island.
Erinie Canadeo, Chairman
Energy, Exhibits and Excitement
The excitement was palpable as we witnessed a rock-n-roll stew of performers, music industry executives, and entertainers across the spectrum. From doo-wop to rap, rock-n-roll to folk, artists gathered with a renewed sense of community and pride.
Mark Mendoza expressed his indebtedness to the fans:
It took too long. It’s about time it happened? No, but we are grateful to the Long Island Music Hall of Fame, you know, entertainment Hall of Fame, really grateful. But I’ll tell you what, if it wasn’t for all these artists, including us and their fans, we wouldn’t be here. It’s really the people that will see on the map.
Mark Mendoza
Two Floors Jammed Pack with Surprises
The Hall of Fame will have a rotation of exhibits twice a year. Award winning designer and board member Kevin O’Callahan, designer of the iconic “popcorn” trophy for the MTV Movie Awards, created the premiere exihibit, Long Island’s Legendary Club Scene, a “club crawl” through the nightclubs of the 1960’s, 70’s and 80’s. There is also a theater, gift shop, performance area, and an official Hall of Fame Museum filled with memorabilia from over 120 inductees.
Paying It Forward Supporting Education
Typically the Arts are on the chopping block when school districts are faced with difficult budget decisions. Gratefully, the LIMEHOF is a 501(C)(3) non-profit dedicated to supporting the arts though education and various scholarships. There are some exciting partnerships to be announced in 2023 which will pass the torch of encougement onto the next generations.
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