It was a night of celebration and honor in the Eastwood neighborhood of Syracuse on Friday, March 8, as the 2024 SAMMY Awards took place at the Palace Theater. It was the 31st year of the event, with this year’s rendition awarding winners in 13 different musical categories. The night also honored individuals in four specialty categories, as well as four People’s Choice categories.

2024 SAMMYs — The Critics Choice receive the Founder’s Award at the 2024 SAMMYS

Hosted by Syracuse news anchor and devoted local music supporter Tim Fox, the evening kicked off on a somber note. Fox asked the audience to take a moment of silence to honor former SAMMYS Board Member Jordan Davies. Davies, who lost his life last month, played integral piece in the planning of the event and in the preparation of the run-of-show.

Following the tribute, Fox turned the audience’s attention to the first musical performance of the evening, Sydney Irving & the Mojo. Irving greeted attendees with a stunning rendition of “All I Need is You,” which saw Irving perform acoustic with George Newton on pedal steel. Her bandmates would join the party and finish the remainder of the set. Additional performers this evening included 2024 Hall of Fame inductee Jeffrey Pepper Rogers, Shawn Seals & SMX, Steven Cali, and the Rollin’ Rust Band.

Along with the diverse musical performances, awards were handed out in thirteen musical categories. The big winner on this evening was 24 year-old R&B and Neo-Soul star, Tyjhier. Tyjhier, who was awarded the trophy for Best R&B, also won the Brian Bourke Award for Best New Artist, a prize that includes a free recording session at Subcat Studios.

The evening not only celebrated the recent accomplishments of those on the Syracuse music scene, but also honored many of those who have played a key role in the area’s rich music history. Frank Malfitano awarded the Founder’s Award to jazz group The Critics Choice. Lori Newcomb received the Jack O Bocchino Spirit of the SAMMYS award for her many years chronicling the music scene through her photography. News anchor Carrie Lazarus received the Community Spirit Award. The evening concluded with the awarding of several “People’s Choice” awards.