The Final Four of NYS Music March Madness 2025, Presented by Upstate Canna, is here, and the race to the top is hotter than ever! 🔥 After a whirlwind of fierce competition, only four bands remain in the battle for the ultimate championship. As the stakes get higher and the matchups intensify, the question remains: who will rise to the occasion and secure their place in the Championship Round?
It’s your turn to decide! Check out the final contenders and make sure to cast your vote via the Google Form at the end of the article. The countdown to the final showdown has begun, and it’s all in your hands—let’s see who’ll claim victory!
Polls are open until March 21 at 11:59 PM, so don’t miss your chance to make an impact. Check out the results from Round 3 and get ready to vote!
Upstate Canna is the official partner of NYS Music March Madness 2025. Upstate Canna is a trusted retail destination for premium, locally sourced cannabis products in New York State. They offer a carefully curated selection for therapeutic use and personal enjoyment. Their sponsorship helps bring together the most exciting emerging talent and allows fans to discover new music. Alongside Upstate Canna, a selection of regional sponsors also plays a key role in making this event a reality.
Lark Hall is a historic performing arts and event venue in Albany. Initially built in 1916, the space has been carefully restored to host live music, comedy, theater, private events, and community gatherings. Lark Hall has established itself as a beloved space that fosters a welcoming atmosphere for artists and fans alike.
Lark Hall Region Winner
Meet Darkside Skinny Dippers
Hailing from Saranac Lake, Darkside Skinny Dippers blends traditional rock with modern influences to create a sound that embodies diverse rock ‘n’ roll. With a mix of original tunes and reinterpreted covers, their performances evoke nostalgia and creativity. Their music works to showcase their signature mix of raw emotion and polished musicianship. Darkside Skinny Dippers are dedicated to delivering unforgettable musical experiences, ensuring they remain a compelling force in today’s rock scene. Check out their single “This Is Your High.” Ready to jam? Darkside Skinny Dippers will be live at Charlie O’s in Montpelier, VT on March 21.
Rock is dead? Preposterous! Darkside Skinny Dippers aka #DSKINNYD prides itself on not easily being defined. One minute we’re performing our americana-inspired original “This Is Your High” on top of a house boat cruising down the lake, the next minute we’re channeling Ozzy-era Black Sabbath with our version of “Electric Funeral” at a live show. Hopefully, this competition further proves you can expect the unexpected with Darkside Skinny Dippers aka #DSKINNYD. Rest assured, we vow to leave you smiling and entertained
Dead of Summer Music Festival is a three-day celebration of Grateful Dead-inspired music held in Manchester, VT. Now in its sixth year, the festival features live performances and community events. Their upcoming festival will take place from June 11-13 with an exciting list of headliners.
Dead of Summer Music Festival Region Winner
Meet Pat Tato & The Baked Potatoes
Pat Tato & The Baked Potatoes bring funk, rock, reggae, and ska to the stage straight from Syracuse. Fronted by singer-songwriter Pat Tato, this electrifying project delivers music as creative as its name, with The Baked Potatoes providing a powerhouse backing band. The band pairs tight musicianship with lyrics that, in Pat’s own words, are “specific & ambitious.” Their sound mixes smooth melodies with punchy rhythms and reggae energy, creating an irresistible groove. Pat Tato & The Baked Potatoes bring a unique sound that keeps audiences coming back for more. Listen to their latest single, “Stay Fly,” out in 2025. Pat Tato & The Baked Potatoes will bring their Bets Tour to Florida with stops in Jacksonville on March 27 and 30, and St. Augustine for March 28 and 29.
We’re so honored to be included in this years’ March Madness and we’re so excited to see we’ve made it so far!
Funk ‘n Waffles is a beloved music venue in downtown Syracuse. They have crafted the perfect balance between food and music by serving inventive waffles and live performances. Founded by Syracuse’s dynamic duo, Kyle Corea and Adam Gold, it has become a cornerstone of the city’s music scene.
Funk ‘n Waffles Region Winner
Meet Glass Pony
Albany’s Glass Pony specializes in psychedelic grooves and has gained a reputation for their unique, exploratory sound and live performances. Featuring Chanda Dewey on drums and vocals, Eddie Hotaling on guitar and vocals, Jeff Picarazzi on bass and vocals, and Greg Pitzz on lead guitar and vocals, the band combines rich harmonies, intricate guitar work, and intense lyricism to create an immersive musical experience. Their boundary-pushing approach and infectious energy have made them stand out in the psychedelic scene. Give their song “Bottom of the Ocean” some love. The band is hitting the stage at Ophelia’s on Broadway on March 29 in Albany. Make sure you’re there for this must-see show!
It feels great to be included with so many great bands from around the state and be recognized for all of the hard work that we, as well as all of the other artists in the tournament, put into our music in bringing it to you. The groove is now.
Radio Woodstock has been curating music and live events in the Hudson Valley for over 40 years. Their long-standing presence has made them a staple in the local music scene. They work to support both emerging and established talent through their influential music audience.
Radio Woodstock Region Winner
Meet The Laura Leigh Band
The Laura Leigh Band, based in Washington County, brings an Appalachian-inspired sound to the Americana genre. As she is known for her heartfelt storytelling, Laura Leigh’s music explores the complexities of life. In 2021, she released her debut solo album, Living in Cambridge, produced by Jonathan Stewart. The album paints vivid pictures of the small town she grew up in, capturing its joyful and melancholic aspects. Beloved by those who experience her live performances, Laura Leigh connects with audiences through her powerful music and genuine presence. Experience “Corn Song” from her 2021 album. The Laura Leigh Band has announced a run of shows, including a stop at Unihog in Hoosick Falls on March 22.
Special thanks to Mirth Films and Sterling Stage for providing incredible prizes to our participants. Mirth Films is a media powerhouse specializing in high-quality video production. They are offering the winner a professionally shot, multi-camera full set video. Sterling Stage, celebrating 30 years of live music, is known for hosting unforgettable festivals. They are awarding a coveted spot on the lineup of an upcoming Sterling Stage Festival.
Voting for Round 4 of NYS Music March Madness 2025, Presented by Upstate Canna, ends at 11:59 PM on March 21. Round 5 will take place from March 24-26. Submit your votes using the Google Form below. Good luck to all bands and artists. Let the madness rage on!
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