Central New York Musicians

Since their debut album in 1984, Anthrax has toured the world, selling millions of records in the process. They’ve toured with Kiss, Black Sabbath, and Ozzy Osbourne. You might remember them from this past summer’s “Clash of the Titans” tour, which also featured Slayer and Megadeth. Oswego, N.Y. native Joey Belladonna is the lead singer for “Anthrax.” Another case of a local boy who’s made a name for himself in the world of rock. We spoke with Joey about his rise from the bar rooms of Central New York to…...

She’s the winner of the 2002 Backstage Bistro Award For Outstanding Vocalist of the Year; appeared in over 100 Off Broadway performances of the hit show “Our Sinatra” and has a critically acclaimed CD to her credit titled “My Standards”. Q – According to your bio. Karen, you competed in talent shows in Upstate New York. Where in upstate? A – That was in Syracuse. Q – Where, may I ask? A – Where I performed? Q – Yes. A – Loew’s Landmark Theatre. I did a lot of theatre…...

He won a Grammy Award for the Orange Blossom Special/Hoedown on the Urban Cowboy Special. He was the fiddle player for Mickey Gilley’s Urban Cowboy Band at the time. He’s toured and recorded with everyone from Roy Clark to Charlie Daniels, everyone from Merle Haggard to Kenny Rogers. And best of all—–he’s from Syracuse, N.Y. His name is Ron Levine and he recently shared his story with us. Q – Ron, why is there no mention of your days as a Syracuse musician on your website? A – Actually, I’ve…...

As their website says: “If you like your entertainment straight up—–no painted faces, no acrobats, no mimes, just pure talent performing unforgettable music, impressions and comedy, then The Scintas is the one show you must see”. That about says it all doesn’t it? Well—–not exactly. Frank Scinta spoke with us about the history of this celebrated group. Q – Your group used to play around Syracuse quite a bit awhile back. I was surprised to see you’re based out of Las Vegas. A – Well, we all moved to Las…...

The Rods are certainly no strangers to Central New York. The group was formed after Ronnie James Dio left “Elf” and his cousin David “Rock” Feinstein teamed up with drummer Carl Canedy. Carl Canedy is a much in demand heavy metal producer today with credits that include Savoy Brown, Blue Cheer, Anthrax, Exciter, Thrasher, Overkill, The Roxx Gang, and Jack Starr. The Rods’ latest release is titled “Heavier Than Thou” (Passport Records). Carl Canedy talked with us about The Rods. Q – Why have The Rods been off the road…...

He’s a home-town boy who has made good. Duane Hitchings is a legend in Syracuse, N.Y. and outside of Syracuse, N.Y. When he was just a teenager he was already doing the Dick Clark Tours with the likes of Del Shannon, Bobby Vinton, and Ricky Nelson. He recorded with Jimi Hendrix, Miles Davis, Janis Joplin and Jeff Beck. He was the founding member of Cactus which included Carmine Appice and Tim Bogert. He played keyboards and guitar with Alice Cooper and keyboards for Rod Stewart. He’s toured the world with…...