August in Central New York is lauded by many in the area as “State Fair Season.” While the New York State Fair once again boasts an impressive musical lineup, there are plenty of other great performances to take in this month leading up to the fair.
David Wax Museum – Aug. 3 at 443 Social Club and Lounge
Described as “Mexo-Americana”, and known for blending folk and roots rock styles, the husband and wife duo bring their dynamic sounds to the 443 Social Club and Lounge on Aug. 3. The duo features David Wax (vocals, jarana) and Sue Slezak (fiddle, vocals, quijada). The band broke through in 2010 after a set at the infamous Newport Folk Fest and they have been turning heads ever since. They are currently touring in support of 2023’s release You Must Change Your Life. As an added bonus, the show takes place at the delightfully intimate 443 Social Club and Lounge, Syracuse’s favorite listening room.
Tickets start at $20 with music starting at 7:00 pm.
Cooper Greer – August 4 at Tin Rooster, Turning Stone Casino
Sweet country music sounds will echo throughout the Exit 33 music complex at Turning Stone Casino on Aug. 4, as rising country star Cooper Greer performs at the Tin Rooster. The North Carolina native has drawn comparisons to Johnny Cash, Dirks Bentley, and Chris Young. The band is currently embarking on a cross-country tour, which will also feature a stop at Binghamton’s famous Spiedie Fest on Aug. 5.
Music starts at 10:30 pm with a $10 cover charge.
Frank White Experience – August 11 at Westcott Theater
Regarded as the genre leader in hip-hop tribute bands, The Frank White Experience come to the Westcott Theater on Aug. 11. Drawing comparisons to other highly regarded tribute acts such as The Dark Star Orchestra and Badfish, the Syracuse band pays hip-hop tribute like no other, with complete live instrumentation. The set will deliver listeners a top-end tribute to 90s hip-hop pioneers such as Notorious B.I.G., 2Pac, as well as many others. The bill also features a slew of other Syracuse talent, including Seth Marcel, Jus One, DJ Tes One, and Ivan the Great.
Music starts at 8:00 pm with tickets starting at $20.
The SteelDrivers – August 17 at Center for the Arts of Homer
Nashville-based bluegrass favorites The SteelDrivers return to Central New York for a performance at the Center for the Arts of Homer on Aug. 17. Once fronted by country music sensation, Chris Stapleton, the band has released an impressive musical catalog with 2015’s release The Muscle Shoals Collection earning the band the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album.
Music starts at 8:00 pm and tickets are sold out.
Danielle Ponder – August 30 at Chevy Court Stage, NYS Fair
Rochester native and rising R&B star Danielle Ponder brings her soulful sounds to the New York State Fair for a free show on Wednesday, Aug. 30. Ponder, long known for her years as a social activist and for her work in the Rochester public defender’s office, has been turning heads musically since 2018 when she decided to devote herself full time to music. She is presently touring behind her latest release, Some of Us Are Brave, which was described by NPR as being “anthemic while compassionate; soulful, while bold and strong.” Ponder continues her ascent to stardom, having recently performed at the 2023 Newport Folk Festival, where she turned many heads. You won’t want to miss this one.
Ponder takes the Chevy Court Stage at 1:00 pm and the set is included with your fair admission.
Comments are closed.