The red carpet was rolled out for Central New York’s music scene on Friday, March 7, 2025 as the annual Syracuse Area Music Awards (SAMMYs) took place at the Palace Theater.

The festivities began one day earlier, as the Sammy’s Committee held the Hall of Fame Induction at Middle Ages Brewing Concert Hall, welcoming six new members to the Hall of Fame. Among the honorees were Alecstar, Ron Keck, Shifty’s, Wilkesbury Brigade, Holly McCoy, and Matt Forger.

Mira Grimm accepts the SAMMY for Best New Artist

Friday’s awards ceremony kicked off with a high energy set from Syracuse ska favorites and scene veterans, The Action. The band had the audience dancing and swaying in the aisles as they made their way to their seats.

Mike Kohli accepts the Spirt of the SAMMYS Award

Syracuse television host and long time local-music advocate, Tim Fox served as MC while an impressive sleight of performers decorated the evening. Performers included 2024 SAMMY standout Tyjhier, Vaporeyes, A Kid Called Danger, and 2025 SAMMY Hall of Fame inductees, Alecstar.

A Kid Called Danger perform at the 2025 Syracuse Area Music Awards

Through out the course of the evening, awards were handed out in 13 musical categories, and four people’s choice awards. Additionally, Mike Kohli was awarded the Jack O Bocchino Spirit of the SAMMYS Award, and Mira Grimm took home the Brian Bourke Award for Best New Artist. See the full list of award winners below.

2025 SAMMY Award Recipients

Best Jazz – CNY Jazz Orchestra

Best Americana – The Ripcords

Best Other Style – Max Scialdone

Best Jam Band – Root Shock

Best Pop – Jess Novak

Best Hard Rock – Into Shadow

Best Blues – Nate Gross Band

Best R&B – FB

Best Alternative – Paper Rabbit

Best Country – Jon Rogalia

Best Rock – Backyard Wrestling