In the Flamingo Lounge with Rockabilly Greg

This week's guests, from "Rockin' Robin," are the remarkable duo of Buffalo Music Hall of Fame Inductee, Robin Grandin and Jackie Volk.

From learning bass in two weeks to handle six-hour sets on tour, to lighting up stages from Bemus Point to Nashville, Robin's multi-instrumental talents have always shone.

After a storied career starting at age 19 and heartbreaking seven-year hiatus following her husband's passing in 2010, Jackie reunited with Robin in 2017 to form their powerhouse duo.

Robin and Jackie visited the Flamingo Lounge on September 3, 2026.

This week marks the eighth session of "Rockabilly 2 Rachmaninoff," a captivating series promising unique insights from a featured guest from the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. This week, I'm thrilled to welcome back to the Flamingo Lounge, Alexandra McArthur—a powerhouse Buffalo-based vocalist, educator, composer, and four-time JazzBuffalo Female Vocalist of the Year.

Known for her expressive voice and thoughtful musicianship, Alexandra's work spans jazz, choral music, musical theatre, and wellness. Over the past decade, she has become a vibrant force in our local arts scene, collaborating with staples like the Buffalo Jazz Collective, the Historic Colored Musicians Club, and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra's Education Program.

Whether she's performing across WNY, teaching, or singing, Alexandra approaches every project with deep curiosity and a passion for community. Join us as we dive into her inspiring journey, her creative process, and what drives her musical storytelling.

Alexandra visited the Flamingo Lounge on Monday, August 24 and.provided some deep insight to her approach to music.

Since 2016, vocalist and guitarist Zak Ward, drummer Jeff Schaller and bassist Brad Robbins have served as The Billievers, the first ever official house band of The Buffalo Bills.

For 10 seasons inside Highmark Stadium the band has entertained out in the sun, sleet, fog, frost, hail, snow, wind, and rain for diehard Bills fans as the gates open each week, along with every visiting fan base in the NFL.

Jeff Schaller and Brad Robins from the BILLievers joined Rockabilly Greg in the Flamingo Lounge on September 1, 2026 to talk about etheir experiences as musicians and entertaining the crowds at the Buffalo Bills home games.

In the Flamingo Lounge this week is singer, songwriter, producer, jingle writer, and two-time Buffalo Music Hall of Fame inductee, Phil Dillon!

Phil was first on the show back in March 2023, and if you heard that episode, you know his career in music spans decades—from fronting 70s Buffalo originals like Flash and Dylan & Brady, to spending nearly 30 years in Nashville writing, producing, and working with top-tier talent. He's back in Western New York, still deeply woven into our local music scene. Phil visited the Flamingo Lounge on August 17 to sit back down to share even more stories from his incredible journey.

This weeks' guests, Janna Willoughby-Lohr, My Rap Name is Alex, Michael Delaney and Rebecca Mercurio, from BloodThirsty Vegans, are a musical family that makes music (sweet, sweet music) about peace, love and understanding to unite the human family, foster respect for the interconnected web of life, and remind the tribes how liberating it was to dance the dances of freedom.

BloodThirsty Vegans' style of music can only be categorized as "FUN!" It is built upon a foundation of Hip Hop, is geared toward getting people up and moving, and is lyrically charged with a deep consciousness, but beyond that it kind of defies description.

Bloodthirsty Vegan visited the Flamingo Lounge on August 10, 2026 and shared the stories and music.

Stephen Sadoff is a bass player extraordinaire with "deep pockets." He plays with every inch of his body and soul. He's a much sought after band member, a popular "go to" guy for recording sessions, and is the guy who gets the call when a last-minute fill in is needed.

For over forty years Stephen has been the go to guy for recording sessions and live performances. He has done numerous radio and TV jingles and commercials. Steveco-produced X-Factor and American Idol contestant Caitlin Koch's debut CD.

Stephen played at the first University of Buffalo Blues Fest in 1969. He has played with countless artists and has lent his talents to numerous recordings, concerts and club gigs. He was inducted into the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame in 2012.

Bands include The Weekend Trip, The Argyle Street Band, Mark Winsick Band, Big Wheelie, R&B and the Soul Review with Nick Veltri and Sam Guarino, Spoon & The Houserockers, John Brady and Black Cat Blues Band, Donna McDaniel and Windfall, Ash & Campagna Band, The Jimmy Calire Band, Rocket 88, The Summer Street Band, Billy & The Heartbeats, King Biscuit Boy Band, The Project, Mr. Conrad Band, Leron Zydeco, The Clapton Tribute Band, Doug Yeomans & The Lo Blue Flame, Jeremy Keyes Band, Gretchen Schultz Band, James Peterson Band, The Willies, Alan Whitney Band, and Phil Dillon Band. Stephen played shows with KP Hawthorn, Alice Wallace, Elliott Randall (Steely Dan), The Marvellettes, Denny Laine (Wings), Terry Sylvester (The Hollies), Sharon Jones (Dap Kings), James Cotton, and Toni Lynn Washington. Stephen has also shared the stage with Charlie Musselwhite, Bonnie Raitt, Bobby Jones, Gurf Morlix, John Allen and more.

Stephen joined Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on July 27, 2026.

The older brother of fellow Buffalo Music Hall of Fame Inductee Tony Galla, Armondo "Mondo" Galla is a talented rock 'n roll and R&B singer, musician, and recording artist in his own right, with a decades-long career both solo and as a member of his family group and other combos.

Born circa 1943 in Buffalo, the young Armondo sang and played guitar in The Galla Trio, which included brother Tony and sister Mary Jane.

The high point of their family performances was their appearance (with their mother) on TV's Ted Mack Amateur Hour in February, 1959 when Armondo was 16. Mr. Mack mispronounced their names as "Gallo."

In his early twenties, Armondo was a member of the Sherwin Trio, who cut at least two singles for Sahara Records, 1964's "Jack the Cat (writing credit to his Wife Roslyn)/Angels Watching Over Me," and the holiday release "Christmas Train/Born in Bethlehem." The 45s were produced at Micro Sound Studio by another Buffalo Music Hall of Fame Inductee, David Lucas.

In the late 60's Galla was a member of the all-original band Mondo Bizzaro, which also included Doug Morgano, Stan Szelest, Gary Mallaber, Ernie Corallo and Bruce Gordon. Mondo was also a featured singer in a series of R&B/Blues revues hosted by Morgano and Nick Veltri at the Tralf, and appeared with other bands well into the 2000s.

Armonda and his wife Evelyn, visited the Flamingo Lounge on July 29, 2026.

Elliot Sneider is a pianist, composer, writer, and improviser originally from Syracuse, New York, where he began playing piano at the age of five. After ten years of classical study with pianist Richard Smernoff, Sneider became obsessed with jazz and blues, studying improvisation with Beth Separac and quickly finding his voice as an improviser. Before long, he was performing professionally throughout Central New York as a teenager, including holding down the piano chair with the Sunday Night Road Band, music directing productions for Syracuse's Talent Company, including the SAMMY Award-winning productions of A Chorus Line and The Full Monty, and spending summers performing with the Stan Colella All-Star Band. He also led his own groups, Too Many Cooks and Five Layer Burrito, the latter with singer/guitarist Joe Driscoll. From an early age, Sneider moved comfortably between jazz clubs, theater pits, concert halls, and community arts spaces — a musical openness that continues to shape his work today.

After studying Jazz Composition at the New England Conservatory of Music, Sneider went on to earn degrees in composition and electronic music from New York University and Arizona State University, where he completed a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Composition. While at NEC, he studied with artists including pianist Paul Bley, whose approach to improvisation deeply influenced Sneider's musical voice and understanding of spontaneity, vulnerability, and listening.

Over the years, Sneider's work has ranged from jazz performance and theater to multimedia composition, songwriting, music technology, and arts leadership. His performing career has included collaborations with Michael Arenella's Dreamland Orchestra, Ryan Hobler's Sunroom, Foly Kolade's Asiko, and a wide range of artists throughout New York State.

His current project, Merciful TRVLR, brings together many of these musical worlds through performances that blend jazz, Americana, improvisation, storytelling, and song. Following the loss of his wife to cancer, Sneider began creating performances centered on grief, resilience, caregiving, memory, and human connection. Combining original music, spoken narrative, and collaborative improvisation, Merciful TRVLR creates intimate listening-room experiences where audiences are invited not simply to observe, but to reflect, connect, and feel less alone.

Elliot visited the Flamingo Lounge on July 20, 2026 to share his music, stories and his personal journey.

This week In the Flamingo Lounge, we are shining a massive spotlight on the incredible sounds, history, and legacy of the Niagara Frontier with Bruce Wojick and Frank Fracassi from the Niagara Falls Music Hall of Fame.

Founded in 2017 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Niagara Falls Music Hall of Fame has been on a dedicated mission to preserve and celebrate the rich musical heritage of the greater Niagara Falls region.

Board President, Bruce Wojick, is a 2017 inductee, a mainstay of the WNY scene since 1983, and one of the region's most respected guitarists and songwriters. You know him from iconic bands like God's Children, Klear, The Struggle, Brothers of Invention, and touring nationally with The Strictly Hip.

And alongside him is Vice President, Frank Fracassi, a phenomenal keyboardist who has been fueling the local airwaves since the 60s and 70s with legendary groups like Penelope, and currently with Everyday People and Summer of '69. When he's not behind the keys, he's a major force in the community with the Lewiston Kiwanis and the Lewiston Jazz Fest board.

Frank and Bruce visited the Flamingo Lounge on July 14, 2026.

Based on Nick Veltri's return appearance on In the Flamingo Lounge with Rockabilly Greg (recorded June 23, 2026 and broadcast July 18, 2026).

Nick Veltri: Serving the Song

For more than fifty years, bass player Nick Veltri has stood as one of the most respected, disciplined groove-makers in Western New York. Inducted into the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame in 1994, Veltri's reputation isn't built on flash or grandstanding, but on a deep, unshakeable devotion to a single musical truth: the song is king.

Nick's obsession with the instrument started early. As a nine-year-old kid walking to sax lessons at Art Kubera's music store, his eyes would lock onto the shiny new Fender basses hanging on the wall.

The definitive "aha" moment came at the Erie County Fair when he saw a local group called The El Tempos performing in their sharp red blazers. Hearing the way the bass drove the crowd to dance, Nick knew exactly where his future lay. He never picked up a standard guitar; he was meant to play the bass.

While his father bought him an off-brand electric rig around 1963, Nick also pursued formal training on the upright bass under the legendary Ted Mayer of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. Mayer's strict focus on bowing, precise finger position, and classical discipline laid a flawless technical foundation that Nick carried with him throughout his entire career.

Returning home from a military stint in the Marines (1969–1971), Nick jumped headfirst into the fertile Buffalo circuit. By 1973, he joined the nationally touring '50s showband Big Wheelie & the Hubcaps, kicking off an era of recording, traveling, and headlining major hometown venues like the historic Melody Fair.

Over the decades, Nick became the go-to session and live player for the region's elite, backing keyboard icon Stan Szelest in Stan & the Ravens, anchoring Billy McEwen & the Soul Invaders, and performing with Barbara St. Clair & the Shadows.

Nick's signature tone relies heavily on a three-bass rotation of reissue Fenders:

· A '58 Reissue Precision Bass: Beloved for its easy playability and classic, round sound.

· A '54 Reissue Precision Bass: A primitive, punchy take on the earliest Fender designs.

· A '62 Reissue Precision Bass: Bringing that classic '60s R&B soul warmth.

His approach is strictly fingers—no picks—keeping him firmly locked into the pocket alongside legendary local drummers and horn sections.

Nick's musical fingerprint is etched onto nearly 100 recording projects—ranging from regional radio jingles (like "Milk for Health") to albums by Terry Buchwald, Doug Yeomans, Bob Faulk, and Pete Howard, as well as Lance Diamond's beloved Christmas record.

He was also famous for a unique, heavily gigged 1959 Fender Precision bass featuring a rosewood fingerboard. Over decades of service, the instrument's failing finish became a canvas, completely covered in signatures of legendary musicians Nick crossed paths with. Featured in 20th Century Guitar magazine in the early 2000s, the historic bass was later displayed at the Buffalo Museum of Science and the Hard Rock Cafe before finding a home with a collector in the Netherlands.

Beyond his legendary stage presence, Veltri has dedicated decades of his life to preservation. Following his 1994 Hall of Fame induction, he stepped into leadership roles, serving as the President of the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame starting in 2000, and helping organize historical exhibitions to honor the players who built the "Buffalo Sound."

Whether he's co-writing tracks like "Put Out the Fire" on the Bandstand label, recording live original projects with writers like John Regis, or steering the rhythm section for his beloved bi-annual R&B Soul Revue alongside Sam Guarino, Nick Veltri remains the ultimate professional. To Nick, playing the bass has never been about self-promotion—it's about locking down the pocket and serving the music.

This week marks the seventh session of "Rockabilly 2 Rachmaninoff," our captivating collaborative series that brings you unique insights and stories from different guests associated with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. As a reminder, new episodes in this special series drop every two months on the second Saturday.

In this week's edition, we're spotlighting the Buffalo United Community Choir (BUCC) with guests Karen Saxon and George Brown. Founded in January 2023 by the BPO Diversity Council, BUCC unites the Buffalo-Niagara region through the transformative power of music.

This dynamic, 100+ member choir features voices from over 50 local churches and organizations, truly embodying the spirit and rich diversity of Buffalo. Under the brilliant artistic leadership of Ella E. Robinson, Karen Saxon, and George Brown, BUCC has delivered stirring, soulful performances—collaborating with the BPO at Kleinhans Music Hall and lifting spirits across the community.

The choir proudly lives by its inspiring motto: "We lift our voices in song as ONE community."

I sat down with Karen and George on June 12 at the corporate offices of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra for a wonderful, engaging conversation you won't want to miss.

Want to learn more? You can find more information on the BUCC, including a full biography, at BPO.org

This week's episode, was recorded remote from the Onöhsagwë:de' Cultural Center (Seneca Iroquois National Museum) in Salamanca, NY, where we explored Native American music, dance and culture with Alan Dowdy, the museum's Lead Cultural Interpreter.

Alan is a member of the Tuscarora Nation, Turtle Clan and was born and raised on the Seneca Allegany Territory where he resides with his family. He and his girlfriend have six children who are heavily active in their way of life—singing, dancing, ceremonies, and sports. Alan's two sons play their traditional game of lacrosse, and his daughters play softball. They all hunt, fish, and harvest food from the garden, woods, and river.

This week's edition of the podcast was recorded live from the Town of Tonawanda Public Library (Kenmore Branch) on Wednesday, June 17 to celebrate Kenmore Porchfest. Founder Eric Nagel was there to talk about the incredible grassroots festival that transforms local front porches into vibrant community stages. Since its kickoff in 2021, Porchfest has grown every year, bringing neighbors together for an unforgettable day of music and community spirit.

Joining the fun is special musical guest akloh.! After diving full-time into music in late 2023, akloh. has taken the WNY scene by storm, even taking home Buffalo Spree's 2025 Best Original Music Artist award. We chat about his signature "anthem arena rock" sound, his dynamic acoustic sets, and his brand-new six-piece band, akloh. & co. Plus, we dive into his debut LP anthology (Deluxe Edition) and his latest hit single, "love of the game."

Exploding onto Buffalo's music scene, Samantha Hoy has raised her voice in celebration of the local soul with gritty intoning, raw belting, and a spirited passion for performance.

Samantha is Currently lead vocalist for one of Western New York's newer rock bands, "Bubblegun." Samantha brings a unique and personable energy that she credits to some of her favorite artists: Thom Yorke, Trent Reznor, and Björk.

Come September of 2026, Samantha will be making her theatrical debut by starring in an homage to the one and only, late, great, Janis Joplin. Showcased at the D'Youville Kavinoky Theatre.

Samantha sat down with Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on June 8 to share her stories and an original track from "Bubblegun." Samantha is a star on the rise.

This week marks the debut session of "Favorites," a captivating new series where I step outside the 716 area code to shine a spotlight on my personal favorite artists. These are the trailblazers, icons, and sounds that have shaped my musical DNA.

Blaise Dahl, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and lead vocalist of the Midnight Cowgirls, virtually visited the Flamingo Lounge on Thursday, June 11 to talk about music and the Cowgirls upcoming tour. Blaise also shared an original Cowgirls tune, "Born Ready."

THE MIDNIGHT COWGIRLS are a powerhouse feminine collective poised to revolutionize the music scene with their electrifying blend of country, rock, metal, post-punk, and rockabilly. Their fresh sound defies genre conventions, seamlessly blending twangy guitars with pulsating bass lines and driving rhythms. Conceptualized by songwriter, bassist and fashion designer/stylist Jennie Vee, the band is also led by multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and lead vocalist Blaise Dahl, drummer, vocalist and composer Marlhy Murphy, and guitarist and vocalist Cassidy Fleeman.

The band spent the Summer of 2024 opening for rockabilly legends The Stray Cats during their U.S. tour and quickly gained the attention of Sirius XM Outlaw Country, who have since premiered two of their singles and aired them as the last in-studio live performance of the year. In 2025, the band were invited to open for Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Jack White, Eagles of Death Metal and most recently performed alongside First Lady of Outlaw Country Nikki Lane at the Patron Desert House Stagecoach party.

Get ready to saddle up and ride into a rockin' musical adventure with The Midnight Cowgirls—this is just the beginning of their unforgettable journey.

This week's guest is an international musician and entertainer whose journey is fueled by passion, creativity, and a mission of female empowerment. Courtney B. Holmes, known to fans worldwide as DrummerGurl and DJ CoCo B., started her musical path singing at four years old and drumming in church at thirteen. Since then, she has brought her immense talent to major venues like the KeyBank Center for the Buffalo Sabres, Bandits, and events associated with the Buffalo Bills. She has also hosted drumming seminars in Belize, Central America, and opened for R&B legends Ginuwine and Jeffrey Osborne.

Courtney visited the Flamingo Lounge on May 27, 2026.

Dee Adams has been playing guitar and singing for over three decades, with twenty of those years spent as a staple in the Buffalo music scene. While solo acoustic is how most folks are used to hearing her lilting, lyrical voice, she shines in a full band, whether it's as a leader or a backing vocalist. With roots firmly set in acoustic folk and pop, with lots of room for growth into the beautiful blooms of country, rock and roll, and jazz, Dee uses her voice as the main storyteller, weaving tales of human nature and imagined timelines.

Dee visited the Flamingo Lounge on May 20, 2026 to share her stories and music.

NSS's musical direction is stylistically hard to pin down as he refuses to be categorized, bracketed, nailed down, pinpointed, shepherded, or grouped but one might suggest, taking a little Frank Zappa, adding a generous portion of The Allman Brother's Band, throwing in a dash of Harry Chapin then mix thoroughly with the essence of King Diamond, chill, distill through a Jean Michele Jarre filter, and serve with a slice of attitude on the side.

Noel visited the Flamingo Lounge on May 13, 2026 to talk about and share his music.

Jeff Nixon is widely recognized for his defensive career with the Buffalo Bills, yet his life is equally defined by his craftsmanship as a musician. A dedicated songwriter and guitarist, Jeff blends the precision of a professional athlete with the soulful depth of the blues—a talent honored by Buffalo Nightlife when they named him R&B Guitar Player of the Year for three consecutive years (2006–2008).

This year, Jeff is hosting the 2nd Annual Bills Alumni Music Festival on Saturday June 13, featuring local and national music acts and Buffalo Bills veterans to raise money for charity. Jeff visited the Flamingo Lounge on May 6, 2026, to talk about his music, his career with the Bills and the Music Festival.

Hailing from Buffalo with a "Rust Belt Rock 'n' Roll" sound, Letter to Elise masterfully balances 80s alt-pop shimmer with raw, modern energy and blue-collar grit. Following a breakout run on NBC's The Voice as part of Team Reba, where Reba McEntire herself praised their high-energy performance and harmonies, the band has solidified their hometown pride with their debut record, Risen From Rust. Having shared the stage with icons like Robby Takac of the Goo Goo Dolls and captivated festival crowds like Music is Art, the group continues to build a loyal following through their authentic blend of soaring synths, driving guitars, and a story of resilience that proves something golden can always rise from the Rust Belt.

Elliott and Chris visited the Flamingo Lounge on April 28 to talk about and share their music.

This week's guest, Sal Andolina, is the BPO's hottest switch-hitter in his permanent position of clarinetist, bass clarinetist and saxophonist. He has been a full-time member of the BPO for the past 21 seasons. His association with the Orchestra began in the late '70s when he was a standout performance major at the University at Buffalo as a full-scholarship student on the clarinet. Upon completion of his degree at UB under former BPO clarinetist James Pyne, Andolina pursued advanced clarinet studies with Stanley Hasty at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester and coaching with the legendary Benny Goodman in New York City.

In addition to appearing as a soloist with the BPO, Andolina has been featured with the Rochester Philharmonic, the Grand Rapids Symphony, the Fresno Philharmonic, the Arts Nova Chamber Orchestra and the North American New Music Festival. More significantly, Andolina has been featured on at least 15 studio recordings, including his prized CD: "Like Benny to Me," a tribute to Goodman.

Note, this episode was originally recorded on April 9, 2026 where we talked about his association with Michael Tilson Thomas. Sadly Mr. Thomas passed away on April 22, 2026.

The Trend is a Buffalo-based band formed in 1966, known for covering '60s rock 'n roll and rhythm and blues at High school parties and CYO dances. They often performed at local venues including Point Gratiot in Dunkirk NY.

Fifty-plus years later, the lineup has evolved, but the core of that 1966 spirit is still there. Joining me in the lounge today are three of the guys who have been keeping The Trend moving from the garage days to right now.

The Trend members - Dave Chiarmonte, Dave Roach and Bill Basil reminisced In the Flamingo Lounge on April 20, 2026 about their days as a garage band up to the present.

The Spin Wires are a four-piece outfit from Buffalo, New York, delivering a high-energy fusion of punk, dance rock, new wave and garage rock. Recently celebrating their ten-year anniversary, the band has released four original albums and seen their music licensed across major platforms—including the Showtime series Shameless, CBS's Player Style Files, and various PlayStation and Nintendo titles. While they are serious about their craft, The Spin Wires never take themselves too seriously; that sense of fun is the heartbeat of their recordings and the defining spark of their live shows.

Tyson Prince (Guitar/Vocals) and Jay Organek (Guitar/Vocals) of The Spin Wires joined Rockabilly Greg in the Flamingo Lounge on April 11, 2026. Beyond a fantastic conversation, the duo showcased their songwriting talents with performances of their original tracks, "Slam Van" and "Goodbar Good Night."

This week's episode falls on a very special day for the audiophiles, the crate-diggers, and the music obsessed. It is Record Store Day, and we are celebrating in the best way possible.

Joining us is a man who has turned his passion for vinyl into a Western New York institution. Phil Machemer started his journey in 2010 selling records out of his garage. Fast forward to today, and he's the owner of Revolver Records, operating the two largest shops in the region.

His Elmwood Village location isn't just a store; it's a vital Buffalo venue where local and national acts take the stage every week. On top of running a vinyl empire, Phil is a proud father of three and was recently inducted into the Niagara Wheatfield Senior High School Wall of Fame in 2025.

Richie English is a nationally recognized composer, pianist, arranger, and producer. He has worked on several Billboard-charting albums by artists including the Goo Goo Dolls, Michael Franti, and Moody Blues founder Denny Laine as orchestral composer and co-writer.

English was the youngest registered piano teacher in NYS at 11 years old, studying under Juilliard-trained pianists Frieda & Stephen Manes. He graduated from SUNY Buffalo with a piano performance degree and a master's in music theory.

In 2006 English performed two recital programs for the Dalai Lama during his visit to UB. With co-host Stratton Rawson, English can be heard on Fridays at 10.a.m and 10.p.m on BTPM Classical's Stratton and Richie: Entering Music. Listeners can also catch English solo on Wednesday nights at 10.p.m on From the Piano Bench. Download the BTPM app or tune in to 94.5 FM radio.

Richie joined Rockabilly Greg in the Flamingo Lounge on March 9, 2026, for an engaging deep dive into his musical journey. The episode concludes with a special performance of his original composition, 'Singularity.

This week's guest, Singer/instrumentalist Joe Rozler visited the Flamingo Lounge on March 5, 2026. Joe Rozler has been a fixture in the Buffalo music scene for decades. He's active as an entertainer and recording artist in pop, jazz, rock and less classifiable music. In 2008, Rozler was inducted into the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame.

In his varied career, Joe has created music for soap operas, video games and TV commercials and several locally produced movies, sang a lead role in a chamber opera, written orchestral arrangements and toured Europe with a heavy metal band (!).

On January 23, 2026, Anita West joined me for a great conversation on her life's journey in music.

Anita West is the embodiment of energy and musical passion. Her commercial rock journey began in Atlantic City in 1983, eventually leading her to Buffalo in 1988, where she became the midday personality of 97 Rock. A self-proclaimed "music head," Anita's life revolves around the industry; when she's off-air, she stays busy as a promoter, talent buyer, and event coordinator. When it's time to unplug, you'll find her tending her garden, cycling, hitting the Lake Erie beaches, or chasing the horizon on the back of a motorcycle.

You can catch her on-air Saturday mornings at 10:00 am on "The Saturday Meet Up" and Sunday nights from 9:00-10:00 pm on "Get the Led Out".

On February 20, 2026, the Kenilworth Library hosted an intimate evening with Dick Bauerle, a celebrated Buffalo Music Hall of Fame inductee. Bauerle captivated the audience with stories from his expansive musical journey, offering a rare glimpse into the life of a professional musician. A poignant highlight of the night was Bauerle's tribute to the late Art Kubera, emphasizing Kubera's profound and lasting influence on the Western New York music scene.

The event felt even more historic with fellow Hall of Famer Carol Jean Fremy Swist in attendance. Swist added her own voice to the tribute, sharing personal reflections on her professional association with Mr. Kubera, further cementing his legacy as a cornerstone of the local industry.

From a $20 acoustic guitar inspired by the Beatles' debut to the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame, Dick Bauerle's career is a masterclass in musical evolution. A veteran of the Western New York scene, he rose to prominence with the legendary band Hardtimes before co-founding Select Sound Studios in 1975. As an elite producer and session guitarist, he's collaborated with icons like Rick James and Paul Shaffer. Whether topping smooth jazz charts on Atlantic Records or landing tracks in Mel Brooks' Spaceballs, Bauerle's "musical muse" has traversed pop, country, and jazz. This is the story of a true sonic architect.

Mark Hodges is the Principal Percussionist of the Grammy Award–winning Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. An accomplished recording artist, he has appeared on more than 60 recordings with the BPO and has also recorded extensively with the world-renowned Cleveland Orchestra. He has toured internationally across multiple continents, performing both standard and contemporary repertoire.

Alongside his performing career, Hodges is deeply committed to education. He serves on the percussion faculty at the Eastman School of Music and SUNY Buffalo State University, and is a highly sought-after clinician, adjudicator, and lecturer.

Mark's work also extends beyond the concert hall and classroom. He is the founder of Druminar, a Buffalo-based program that uses music-driven, hands-on experiences to support corporate training, leadership development, and team building. Through Druminar, Mark works with organizations to strengthen communication and collaboration, partnering with Fortune 100 companies, national banks, international manufacturers, and nonprofit organizations.

Hodges holds degrees from the Cleveland Institute of Music/ Case Western Reserve University, and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, as well as a Master of Business Administration from Capella University.

Mark visited the Flamingo Lounge on

Harry Altman: Buffalo's Master Showman, by Susan Fenster, is a biography about the impresario who ran the famous Town Casino and Glen Casino in Western New York, bringing major stars like Sammy Davis Jr. and Jayne Mansfield to the region from the 1920s to the 1960s. The book details his rise from a Russian-Jewish immigrant to a major entertainment figure, navigating challenges like antisemitism and organized crime, and covers the history of his venues and the subsequent rock venue, The Inferno. Published in late 2025, it's available through Buffalo History Books and other local retailers.

About Susan Fenster Susan Fenster graduated from Buffalo State University with degrees in history and journalism. For more than 30 years, she has built a career as a writer and author specializing in non-fiction with a focus on New York State history. She now lives in Williamsville, New York, near Glen Park.

Susan visited the Flamingo Lounge on February 16, 2026.

Buffalo String Works Development Manager, Whitney Dann and Outreach & Engagement Manager, Aye Min Thant visited the Flamingo Lounge on February 10, 2026.

n March 2014, a performance at Buffalo's P.S. 45 revealed a profound truth: music transcends language. After hearing Brahms, a young student poignantly identified the music's theme as "love," prompting founders Elise Alaimo, Yuki Numata Resnick, and Virginia Barron to address a critical gap in local arts education.

What began in September 2014 as a modest program for 17 violinists has evolved into a cornerstone of the Buffalo arts community. Now celebrating its tenth anniversary, Buffalo String Works provides comprehensive string instruction to 160 students across three campuses, dedicated to fostering excellence and community through music.

In the Flamingo Lounge this week, from the Theatre of Youth Company Inc., affectionately known as the TOY, is Executive Director, Tracy Snyder

About the Theatre of Youth Company, Inc. TOY, which is Currently celebrating their 54th season, stimulates the imagination, nurtures the creative spirit and enhances the education of young people by engaging them in relevant, child-centered, and professionally-produced live theatre programs. TOY believes meaningful childhood experiences in the theatre develop confidence in creative thinking skills, cultivate empathy and establish a life-long connection to the arts.

TOY is a place where all families, children, cast and crew feel included, represented and inspired. We strive to reflect the community that gave rise to our theatre, both on and off the stage, and to improve access to the magic of children's theatre and arts education for all. TOY is a safe haven where children can explore and be creative in comfort, with diversity in our productions and ensuring that our community has a voice in everything we do.

About the Executive Director – Tracy Snyder Ms. Snyder joined TOY in August 2019. Tracy (she/her) is a Buffalo native and a graduate of both SUNY at Buffalo (B.A. in Theatre Performance) and Niagara University (M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in business and theatre). Snyder also completed an acting residency at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London, UK. Prior to joining TOY in 2019, she was the Education Director and Office Manager for Shakespeare in Delaware Park. She has worked with many Buffalo theatre companies as an actor, stage manager, playwright, director, wardrobe mistress and teaching artist. Her play, Apple of My Eye, was selected to be a part of the Road Less Traveled Production's Emanuel Fried New Play Workshop. She recently made her film directorial debut with "This Is Not A Pipedream" (Leaves Are Falling Fast Productions).

This episode was recorder February 5, 2026.

Jacob Nicholson is a Buffalo based musician, music therapist, and music educator. Jacob studied general music at Onondaga Community College, and music therapy at SUNY Fredonia with a focus on singing as his primary instrument. He has sung bass in multiple professional choirs in Central and Western New York, including the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus.

Now, he performs on keyboard with multiple groups such as Ellen Pieroni and the Encyclopedia of Soul, Brass Machine, Hunks of Funk, Zak Ward and the Million Dollar Question, The 1/2 Trays, and others. He also leads his own band, The JT Nichol Trio.

The JT Nichol Trio consists of original songs and unique arrangements written by Jacob. The groups sound is a blend of elements of jazz, R&B, and rock, with a focus on songwriting, grooves, and improvisation.

Jacob is also the artistic director for Momentum Choir. Momentum choir is a group that consists of adults living with disabilities that share a common passion for music and singing. Jacob directs the choir in rehearsals and performances, with a goal of highlighting their wonderful musical abilities.

Jacob visited the Flamingo Lounge on January 29, 2026 to share his stories and an unreleased JT Nichol Trio song, "Wait for the Time", that was mixed and mastered by Jacob that will be officially released on February 20, 2026. It features Jacob on keys, Josh English on drums, Michael Johnston on Bass and features Peter Heuer on guitar.

From scoring sci-fi films with blenders and hair dryers to shredding with the Hall of Fame jazz group Gamalon, guitarist Dave Schmeidler has spent a lifetime coloring outside the lines. A Kenmore native who cut his teeth alongside legends like Billy Sheehan and studied under icons like Joe Pass, Dave's career spans prog, Celtic, blues, and experimental rock. While his resume boasts award-winning chops and a 20-year tenure at Buffalo's Top Shelf Music, the true thread through his work is a signature sense of wit—proving that "no style of music is safe from him." Whether he's performing with the Blues Daddios or crafting his next solo record, Dave remains fueled by a relentless curiosity and the simple, infectious joy of the performance.

Dave Schmeidler joined me In the Flamingo Lounge virtually on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

Buffalo-based folk duo Sally Schaefer (fiddle, vocals) and Tyler Bagwell (guitar, vocals) breathe fire into folk songs old and new, including a treasure trove of Americana, Celtic, and Erie Canal music.

Sally is a well-known ethnomusicologist and musician around the Western New York area, appearing with numerous bands and recording for various projects representing an array of musical genres.

Tyler is an award-winning historian and patchwork songwriter with a busker's voice in search of couplets within the notion that "history rhymes." Together, they invent and reinvent songs highlighting events, people, and places of local and national note. For larger shows, they often play with the addition of bass and drums as folk-rock band The Travesties.

Tyler and Sally visited the Flamingo Lounge on January 14, 2026 for an engaging session telling stories and discussing their newest projects and sharing live renditions of some of their new music.

Diane Kallay is a highly-regarded vocalist and staple of the Western New York music scene, originally hailing from East Lovejoy. Her national recognition includes opening for legendary acts such as Dave Mason, The Marshall Tucker Band, .38 Special, and Kim Mitchell at major local concert series like Artpark's "Tuesdays in the Park" and Buffalo Place's "Thursday at the Square."

Her versatile musical style covers Pop, Blues, R&B, and Country music, earning her multiple awards across these categories. She was recognized as "Best Female Blues Vocalist" at the 2001 Buffalo Music Awards and, most recently, received the award for "Best Lead Blues Vocalist" at the 2024 Night Life Magazine Awards Show.

After performing in Las Vegas and California, Diane returned to her hometown to continue her musical journey with The Diane Kallay Band. Her 2007 CD, Paisley Blues, showcases her powerful vocals backed by a "smoking" rhythm section and powerful horns featuring veterans of the Buffalo music scene. A long-time supporter of the community, she has performed at numerous benefits throughout her career.

Diane visited the Flamingo Lounge on January 8, 2026 to talk about her music and we listened to a couple tunes off her CD "Paisley Blues"

This week is a special week. We first dive into the fourth session of Rockabilly 2 Rachmaninoff – our acclaimed series with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. And, this week marks a major milestone: the 200th episode of In the Flamingo Lounge!

Joining us this week for an exciting conversation is my featured guest, Jonathan Borden from the renowned Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra!

Double bassist Jonathan Borden is a dedicated member of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, where he has performed since 2014. A Juilliard-trained musician, Borden's commitment to the orchestra extends beyond his musical contributions. He has actively volunteered his time on the Board of Trustees, shaping the organization's strategic direction through his involvement in Education, Marketing, and Artistic committees.

Driven by a passion for making classical music accessible, Borden has spearheaded initiatives aimed at expanding the orchestra's audience, including BPO UpClose and the ongoing Musician's Nightcap series, where he leads engaging discussions with fellow musicians to answer audience questions.

Jonathan has also performed with the Aspen Chamber Orchestra, the Tanglewood Music Center Orchestra, the Pacific Music Festival Orchestra in Sapporo, Japan, the Breckenridge Music Festival Orchestra, and at the Caroga Lake Chamber Festival.

Beyond his orchestral duties, Borden is an educator, sharing his expertise through outreach programs and private lessons. His commitment to fostering a love of classical music is evident in his ability to connect with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Outside of his musical duties, Borden can be found on the tennis court, the golf course, or the curling rink.

This episode was recorded on December 12, 2025

On December 17, 2025, the Flamingo Lounge welcomed the prolific Josh English for an in-depth conversation about his life behind the kit. Josh shared insights into his primary work with the high-energy group Grosh, as well as the various other musical projects that keep his schedule packed.

Josh has shared the stage with many national acts, including Larkin Poe, Gary Numan, Hollerado, Goo Goo Dolls, and many more. His hard hitting, driving feel will make sure you're on your feet when you see him perform.

The episode explores his versatile drumming style and what it's like juggling multiple creative identities within the music scene.

Featured Tracks To wrap up the episode, we've included two tracks that showcase Josh's impeccable timing and groove:

The Nursery – "Everybody's Famous" Zak Ward and the Million Dollar Question – "Hoodwinked"

Note: Josh provides the percussion for both of these featured recordings, highlighting his range across different genres.

This week's guest In the Flamingo Lounge, Tod Kniazuk, serves as Artistic/Executive Director of the nonprofit music and mentoring organization The Big Easy in Buffalo and is planner for Buffalo's Best Kielbasa Contest. Tod has been recognized as a top local arts agency leader and has presented at the NYS Public Safety Symposium on grant management and alternative programs.

Tod also serves as Board President of the Friends of St. Adalbert Basilica, on the Festival Committee for Music is Art, and on the Grants Committee for the Threadhead Cultural Foundation in New Orleans.

Tod has a distinguished history as the first executive director of Arts Services Initiative (ASI) of WNY and the founding executive director of Robby Takac's Music is Art. His prior experience includes advancement at Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute and roles at the UB Regional Institute and Erie County Legislature. He is currently the Senior Grants Manager for the Buffalo Police Department.

This session was record In the Flamingo Lounge on December 11, 2025

Chris Panfil is a solo performer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist bluegrass musician. His musical palette includes vocals, mandolin, fiddle, harmonica, and various guitar styles. His passion is writing, singing, and playing his original Americana-influenced songs, but he also enjoys performing Pop/Rock and Country "chestnuts."

The Panfil Brothers Chris and his brother, Mark Panfil, were inducted into the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame in 2016 as the Panfil Brothers.

They continue to perform together as the Panfil Brothers, moving seamlessly between various styles, including bluegrass, folk, country, Irish, and acoustic jazz. The duo has released three CDs under this name.

Creek Bend Chris is a long-time member of the award-winning bluegrass band, Creek Bend, with whom he has recorded six projects.

• He first joined Creek Bend in 1985 on mandolin. • He rejoined the group in 1994, again on mandolin. • He later switched to guitar around 2005.

Nashville Career A former studio musician from Nashville, Chris spent over ten years as a multi-instrumentalist in Florida and Nashville. While in Nashville, he was an in-demand musician, playing with touring acts, working as a session player, and holding a steady gig at the Stagecoach.

Chris visited the Flamingo Lounge on December 3, 2025 to talk about his illustrious career and share his story.

Charlie Coughlin, born in Buffalo's Irish heritage district, brings a unique blend of Irish and American tunes, folk songs, and new music sensibility to his solo act, forming his own Neo-Folk sound.

As the fiddler for Crikwater, The Brothers Blue, Steel City Rovers, and Bánóg, Charlie has been performing in the Buffalo area for more than ten years. He has played on stages from Buffalo to New York, Baltimore, Ireland, and beyond. He has also performed at many great festivals across the country, such as the Greyfox Bluegrass Festival, The Virginia Scottish Festival, and The Southern Maryland Celtic Festival, among many others.

Charlie is also a proud recipient of the Irish Echo's Arts and Culture Award in 2023. In the fall of 2025, Charlie opened the Buffalo Academy of Irish Music. Its aim is to bring in-depth traditional Irish music lessons to youth and adults in the Buffalo and Western New York region. Its goal is to further enrich the already fantastic Irish traditional music scene in the area with more young players and masterclasses from highly skilled teachers from Ireland.

Charlie joined Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on November 15, 2025 to talk about the Buffalo Academy of Irish Music, his music and play some traditional and non-traditional fiddle tunes.

This week's guests In the Flamingo Lounge are Cami Clune and Mason Laboski. They joined Rockabilly Greg on November 13, 2025 to tell their story and perform some original music.

Cami first gained national recognition as a four-chair turn finalist on NBC's The Voice. A versatile powerhouse, she blends pop-rock originals with subtle touches of country and theatrical flair, influenced by icons like Ann Wilson and Alanis Morissette.

Beyond her growing catalog of original music, Cami is the official Buffalo Sabres anthem singer, has performed with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, and opened for artists like Cee Lo Green. From solo acoustic sets to her high-energy band, Cami transforms personal stories into music that resonates across generations. Get ready to be captivated!

Mason is a guitarist and songwriter whose playing masterfully blends blues-rooted soul with modern rock and country. Largely self-taught, he draws inspiration from icons like John Mayer and Stevie Ray Vaughan, showcasing his skill on both electric and acoustic guitar.

Mason writes original country and singer-songwriter music and is a key co-writer for Cami Clune. He performs across Western New York in multiple projects, including Cami and The Fringe, Smells Like Dave Grohl, and Bloodline, bringing a grounded, soulful energy and a lifelong passion to every performance.

This week's guest In the Flamingo Lounge is Grace Lougen. Grace is an accomplished, award-winning guitarist and songwriter known for taking listeners on a journey with her intense, tasteful solos. Grace has toured in the US and Europe with award-winning bandleader Robert Parker and with another incredible local artist, Grace Stumberg.

Grace has lent her talents to over a dozen records, and worked as guitar tech for Joan Baez and also worked for the Indigo Girls. In 2018, she co-founded the rock supergroup Grosh, whose current album, Start Again, was recently launched in March of 2025.

Grace talked about her musical journey with Rockabilly Greg on November 3, 2025 and also played original music on acoustic and electric guitar.

ECHO 23 joined Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on October 16, 2025.

ECHO 23 is an attitude-fueled alternative rock band channeling the best of the '90s and '00s. They officially formed post-COVID in 2021 and began tearing up their home base, The 33 Speakeasy, in May 2022.

The band's centerpiece is the fierce, young, lead singer Cassandra Warren, who uses her incredible voice and attitude to captivate every crowd. On the rhythm section, you'll find lifelong friends Charlie Forness on bass and Steve Wellenc on drums (who also manages the band). With the addition of CJ Ambrosia on guitar, the lineup for ECHO 23 is complete.

What sets E23 apart is their unique setlist. With Cassandra's incredible vocal range, they crush songs by Paramore, Alanis Morissette, and Lady Gaga. They then instantly flip the script, bringing you bangers from Fall Out Boy and Panic! At The Disco—plus a side of Poison—making them one of the most eclectic and must-see bands in WNY!

Gus Walters is an award-winning songwriter, audio and video producer, and an accomplished show runner. Bands that he's helmed have gone on to place top 3 in the world in the 2014 Hard Rock Battle of the Bands, which led to opening for national acts such as Weezer, Brand New, Theory of a Deadman, The Tea Party and Canadian rock heroes Lowest of the Low. "On the scene" since 1994, he's cut his teeth in bands such as Milkrun, Dirty Smile, At The Helm, The Cinematics, Murder! and Flat Top Riot. He's also self-taught in graphic design, audio recording, audio mastering, video editing, and video directing.

On this episode of In the Flamingo Lounge, Walters reflects on three decades in the Buffalo music scene — the bands, the friendships, and the chaos that made it all worth it. But this story takes a turn as he opens up about his recent colon cancer diagnosis and the life-saving power of a routine colonoscopy. Listeners - Even if insurance makes it hard, there are real, accessible ways to get screened.

Joining us on the third episode of the "Rockabilly 2 Rachmaninoff" series, is conductor Bradley Thachuk.

Maestro Thachuk, is the Music Director of the Niagara Symphony Orchestra (NSO). He has been connected to the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra for over 10 years, conducting occasional Pops and Rock series performances each concert season. Post-pandemic, he's served as the conductor of the Rock series, which is comprised of three concerts per season.

A versatile and diverse musician, Maestro Thachuk has also established himself globally as one of the handful of conductors who moves easily between the classical and rock worlds. He is a highly sought-after symphonic arranger, with numerous collaborations. Recent and upcoming projects include Steve Hackett of Genesis, the music of Leonard Cohen, a tribute to the Tragically Hip, Dave Mason of Fleetwood Mac and Traffic, ABC's Dancing with the Stars franchise, Tony-Award winning Heather Headley, Sarah Slean, Chantal Kreviazuk, The Beach Boys, and Air Supply.

Miranda Wilcox is an up-and-coming singer-songwriter fresh on the Western New York music scene. Currently studying Music Education with a concentration in voice at SUNY Fredonia, music plays a multitude of roles in Miranda's life. From sound recording to operatic performance, Miranda can be seen enjoying music in several different ways. This young musician will thrill you with her eclectic music set, which hits everything from R&B to rock to country, plus her original music.

Miranda traveled to the Flamingo Lounge from Fredonia to talk about her music and perform two very personal songs.

The Edward Honeck's Night-Life Music Awards are a prominent event in the Western New York music scene, dedicated to honoring local bands and musicians. Originally conceived by the late Ed Honeck, who was a major music supporter known as "Mr. Night Life" and associated with Night-life Magazine.

The awards were brought back in 2023 to honor Ed Honeck and the Buffalo music scene by Will Schulmeister. These newly formatted awards feature multiple categories, with winners selected by a combination of committee input and a public vote. Beyond celebrating music, the event serves as a charitable fundraiser, with proceeds frequently benefiting WNY Drummers for Homeless People Inc., a non-profit organization supporting homeless shelters in the region.

Will Schulmeister and Shane Davis visited the Flamingo Lounge on October 2, 2025 to talk about the Awards process and the Event itself.

The dynamic voice behind Buffalo's acclaimed rock band, Grosh, is none other than Megan Brown. Known for her powerhouse vocals and electrifying stage presence that anchors Grosh's blend of hard rock, blues, and funk, Megan has been a fixture in the Western New York music scene for years. While Grosh continues to thrive—most recently with their Tim Lefebvre-produced album Start Again—she is also an accomplished performer in her own right, with a deep history in musical theatre and other local acts. Today, we're excited to dive into a different side of her musical journey as we discuss her solo career and projects outside of the band.

Megan joined Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on October 8, 2025.

Borderland Band Camp is a 3-day summer music program (August 25-27, 2025) for middle-school and high-school teens with a BIG goal—to share the stage with professional musicians for two live performances, culminating in a spot on the Homespun Stage at Borderland Music + Arts Festival.

There's nothing more tantalizing to a musician than a chance at a big stage—and the Homespun Stage at Borderland Music + Arts Festival is pretty dang big. This is a serious opportunity for young musicians to spread their wings.

Last year's Camp was a big success, and was capped off by a well-received set at the Borderland Festival before a large crowd. Our 'campers' really knocked it out of the park with their individual and collective performances.

This year, response to the Camp has been more than enthusiastic, with nearly double the number of students our team of professional musician mentors will be able to serve. Also, badly needed scholarship funds to deserving students were awarded through the Sportsmen's Americana Music Foundation.

Buffalo Music Club partner Eric Crittenden joined band campers Gracie, Evelyn, Alex and marko for a livel discussion outlining the program and discussing their lived experience at Borderland Band Camp 2025.

Greg Klyma is prolific songwriter and seasoned road performer known for his energetic live performances and clever storytelling lyrics that deliver entertaining rides through hilarity, reflection, passion and loss.

Buffalo-born and based, Klyma is a scholar of rock 'n' roll and country music. From that foundation, he has developed a distinctive and compelling sound that resonates with audiences across the country — and even worldwide, with international indie artists having covered his songs. You may also have heard his original tunes on SiriusXM, the Midnight Special, and Woodsongs Old-Time Radio Hour.

Guitar lessons at the age of 13 led to songwriting at age 18. In time, Greg taught himself to play harmonica, mandolin, piano, and tenor banjo. After nearly 30 years of touring and with more than a dozen studio albums under his belt, Klyma isn't slowing down. The Singles Project shows a songwriter who has matured and whose craft continues to evolve. Klyma change is real.

Greg visited the Flamingo Lounge on September 29, 2025 and shared his stories and original composition, "Two Degrees in Buffalo", a well-known song by Greg, featured on his 2008 album Rust Belt Vagabond.

Photo credit: Gary Stanfield

Sue Kincaid's journey began in 1981 at a small club on Delaware Road in Kenmore, New York. Since the tender age of 14, Sue has been singing songs that inspire her and bring peace to others.

From those early days of singing popular rock 'n' roll, Sue's repertoire has expanded to include all genres of music. Yet, her main passion remains writing and recording.

Sue has performed countless original pieces, both her own and those composed by other local Buffalo musicians. She has also lent her vocals to radio and television advertisements.

Throughout her career, Sue has received numerous music awards and has had the honor of working with many Buffalo Music Hall of Fame musicians.

Her style is a signature blend of passion, sensuality, and soul—a voice that is uniquely and beautifully her own, whether she's performing with a guitarist, a keyboardist, or a full band.

For Sue, life's work extends beyond the microphone. As a certified Yoga Therapist, she has spent decades helping individuals suffering from cancer and dementia. For her, music and wellness are two sides of the same coin—gifts she shares to heal and inspire. The incredible talent of the Buffalo music community has not only championed her efforts but also humbled her, solidifying her deep appreciation for the city she calls home.

Sue joined Rockabilly Greg in the Flamingo Lounge on September 9, 2025.

Andrew Loefke, also known as LoF or andy13, is a veteran bassist and vocalist with decades of experience in rock and roll. His sound is heavily influenced by British blues, East Coast punk, and psychedelic rock, resulting in a heavy, loud, and relentless musical style.

Loefke is an active member of the Buffalo, New York music scene, currently performing with six bands: Chloroform, Iron Fist, Tombstone Hands, Shoot Ya, Cowboy Vampires, and Bitey. He also regularly organizes and participates in one-off projects and short-term musical events for charity and tributes.

Music runs in his family, with his grandfather, Alvin Loefke, being a professional pedal steel player who had charted songs in the 1950s.

Loefke's career began early; he was playing clubs by the age of 12 and touring North America in his twenties. Throughout his career, he has released multiple records, worked as a session musician, and even composed music for a ballet. In addition to his performance career, Loefke spent over eight years as the front-of-house sound production manager at Mohawk Place, a well-known music venue in Buffalo.

Andrew visited the Flamingo Lounge on September 8, 2025 for an intmate conversation on his music and touring life.

This week marks the second session of "Rockabilly 2 Rachmaninoff," a captivating new series of "In the Flamingo Lounge" dropping every two months on the second Saturday. Each episode promises unique insights, featuring a special guest from the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.

Joining us on the second episode of the "Rockabilly 2 Rachmaninoff" series, is Classical crossover tenor Jay Dref.

Jay inspires audiences with his passionate, transcendent voice. His uplifting, timeless interpretations of classic standards and modern material has quickly made him one of the premier vocalists of his generation. Reviewers have called him "Groban-like" and his music has become very popular on classical crossover and adult contemporary playlists on Spotify where he has over 100,000 listeners in 157 different countries.

A Buffalo native, Jay is a graduate of The Juilliard School. He has toured internationally and performed at venues such as New York's Lincoln Center, Los Angeles' Dolby Theatre, and the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Jay also has appeared in concert with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, the Niagara Symphony Orchestra and the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra.

Most recently, Jay has collaborated with world-renowned soprano Sarah Brightman on several concert tours spanning four continents. He will continue to tour with Ms. Brightman throughout this year.

Danielle A. joined Rockabilly Greg "In the Flamingo Lounge" on August 21, 2025 after a 14-hour drive from Atlanta. Danielle shared her story and a heartfelt rendition of her song "Better".

Danielle is a Buffalo-born soul fusion artist whose music blends gospel, R&B, jazz, and other influences into a sound that is both powerful and deeply personal. With a background in theater, poetry, and music, she weaves soulful vocals and poetic storytelling into performances that feel intimate, explosive, and unforgettable.

As the founder and lead voice of Diyené, Danielle channels her community's grit and warmth, creating music that breaks barriers and builds connection. When she is not in the artistic sphere, she is an educator. She is going into her 4th year in the school system. In the classroom, she inspires the next generation of community members with the belief that everyone has something important to say; they just need the space and skill to say it.

Adam Bronstein (ABtrio) and Ellen Pieroni joined Rockabill Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on August 20, 2025.

Ellen Pieroni, a soul jazz saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist from Buffalo, NY, has been a prominent figure in the local music scene for over a decade. Her band, Ellen Pieroni & the Encyclopedia of Soul (EoS), was recently featured on NPR's All Things Considered as a "jazz standout" in this year's Tiny Desk Contest. Their smooth, original music, inspired by artists like Grover Washington Jr. and King Curtis, is driven by Pieroni's captivating melodies and the band's thoughtful improvisations over deep grooves.

Buffalo, NY guitarist Adam Bronstein is known for his clever songwriting and playful improvisation, creating instrumental music that blends bebop, fusion, soul-jazz, and psychedelia. With three studio albums released in the past two years—Intention/Invention, ABtrio, and Jazz ≠ Jazz—as well as the live album Live at Black Dots, Bronstein has established himself as a prolific artist. While touring with Louis Prima Jr. & The Witnesses and Ellen Pieroni and The Encyclopedia of Soul, he also leads his trio, ABtrio, on frequent tours across the Northeast and Midwest.

Biff Henrich, original member of the Vores, Visited the Flamingo Lounge on August 13 to review the history of the band and share some original music.

The Vores first stalked the stages of Buffalo rock events during the New Wave era of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their music was labeled punk at the time, but much of the tense dissonance they perpetrated was actually ahead of its time. Their style of music has since come to be categorized as "Post Punk." Incorporating elements of punk, funk, pop, no wave, industrial, and surf, The Vores created their own sound. During their initial active period, only a handful of studio recordings were made, and even fewer were released to the public.

Comprised of Biff Henrich, Gary Nickard, and others, their most notable release was the "Love Canal" 45, a powerful and direct commentary on the environmental crisis that was unfolding in their own backyard. This song, and their music in general, captured the raw, urban anxieties of the era.

The band took an unplanned, unintentional hiatus. As the '80s wore on, the band quit performing in places from New York to Toronto and went on to careers in art, photography, computer software development, and teaching.

In 2002, a somewhat miraculous double-disc collection of New Wave era Buffalo music was released. The "This Is It" compilation included a couple of The Vores' recordings, and when a release concert celebration was planned, they were invited to participate.

This led to two new CDs of original music: "Moment of Uncertainty" in 2005 and "Common Scar" in 2012.

This week in the Flamingo Lounge I sat down with visual artist, Jeff Garbaz, on August 7, 2025 to get a behind-the-scenes viewpoint.

Jeff Garbaz has been directing videos and photography for the last 20 years in the entertainment business. He has made a name for himself in the industry by directing video screens in a live atmosphere and has worked all over the world.

Some of the venues where he has directed video include Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado, Roseland Theater in New York City, the Hard Rock in Vegas, and the Masters golf tournament in Augusta. He has also directed tours all over California, the West Coast, and the East Coast.

Jeff has worked with over 100 Grammy Award winners in many different genres, including artists such as Crosby, Stills and Nash; B.B. King; Weezer; Buddy Guy; Bonnie Raitt; Doc Watson; Lou Reed; and David Sanborn. He is also one of Carl Palmer's (of Emerson, Lake and Palmer) video directors.

Jeff began his career as the singer and songwriter for a band out of Buffalo called "Last Lemming." After performing on most of the prominent stages in Buffalo, New York, and touring in places like New York City, Jeff moved from being on stage to photographing and doing portraits for other bands.

Jeff's photography has been featured in newspapers and magazines, such as The Buffalo News, in over 100 issues.

Jacob Jay and Dalton Sharp from the Jay/Sharptet visited the Flamingo Lounge on July 30, 2025.

Based in Buffalo, NY, the Jay/Sharptet performs music with a focus on original compositions and arrangements. Founded by musicians Jacob Jay and Dalton Sharp, this versatile ensemble can perform as a trio, quartet, quintet, or even a big band. Drawing inspiration from iconic artists like the Miles Davis Quintets, Chet Baker, and Roy Hargrove, they strive to make every performance a unique musical statement that is engaging for their audience.

Past performances include the Northwest Lewiston Jazz Festival, Queen City Jazz Festival, CMC Jazz Festival, and Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Festival, as well as renowned venues like the Palmetto Theatre and Pausa Art House.

Tom began his musical journey as the drummer for the recording group, Weekend, known for their top ten hits "Together" and "Everyday." In 2000, the band members of Weekend were inducted in the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame. Throughout his career, Tom has shared concert stages with legendary bands including Grand Funk RR, the Guess Who, Fleetwood Mac, STYX, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Marshall Tucker, Dave Mason, Todd Rundgren & other prominent performers.

Tom's band, Weekend, toured nationally with pop singer Bobby Sherman when Tom was just 18 years old. The single "Together" was released and rose nationally to the top ten when Tom was 20 years old. He performed with Weekend for ten years. Later he joined the Vincent Michaels Band, Watchers, SLAM, Win Lose or Draw, Rod Nickson Project, The Soul Providers, Brother 2 Brother, and the popular Tom Petty tribute, Learning to Fly.

Tom enjoys traveling and has visited over 30 countries, 8 Canadian provinces and 38 US states. He enjoys performing and recording with various music projects. He lives in Lewiston, NY, enjoys wines from around the world, growing heirloom tomatoes and tending to his flower gardens.

Tom visited the Flamingo Lounge on July 28, 2025 and talked about the many bands he's played with, including "Weekend". And, both top ten hits can be heard in the episode.

It's musical theatre week in the Flamingo Lounge! Doug Kern and Leigha Marie Eichhorn from Rocking Horse Productions joined Rockabilly Greg on July 22, 2025, to chat about their journeys in theatre, including the world of musical theatre, and how they've thrived in a challenging industry.

Rocking Horse Productions is a community theatre company based in Buffalo New York, established in 2006 by Douglas Kern. The company is dedicated to presenting high-quality live theatre, ranging from musicals and classic plays to new works, with a mission to inspire, entertain, and challenge audiences. They prioritize developing local talent, providing equal opportunities for both seasoned and novice performers. Rocking Horse Productions has a history of diverse productions, including musicals like "Les Misérables" and "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," and dramas such as "12 Angry Men" and "A Few Good Men." In 2019, they were recognized as a theatre group in-residence by the Williamsville Arts and Culture Committee, leading to their "Theatre in the Village" season at The Meeting House in Williamsville.

Back together and back in the Flamingo Lounge is Sunday Reign, a four-piece alternative rock band from Buffalo, NY, formed in 2022. The lineup features Michael Delano (vocals, guitar), Owen Krieger (guitar), Sean Laettner (drums), and Alex Cousins (electric cello).

Sunday Reign's sound hits a balance between heaviness and beauty. It's high-energy, emotional, and unfiltered—driven by thick guitars, honest vocals, and the electric cello, which adds a unique edge that feels like it always belonged in rock music.

New music is set to release soon with the band aiming to step fully into the national alt-rock scene.

Sunday Reign joined Rockabilly Greg on July 1, 2025 for a fun conversation and acoustic recordings of three new songs.

This week, prepare to embark on a new musical journey that marks the exciting debut of "Rockabilly 2 Rachmaninoff," a captivating new series In the Flamingo Lounge dropping every two months on the second Saturday. Each episode promises unique insights, featuring a special guest from the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.

Joining us for the inaugural episode in the series, is Ron Spigelman, an acclaimed conductor with an impressive career spanning continents and genres. A native of Australia and an honors graduate of the Royal Academy of Music in London, Ron begins the 25/26 season as the new Principal Pops Conductor of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.

No stranger to the BPO, he previously served as their Associate Conductor, among other notable roles including Music Director for the Fort Worth Dallas Ballet and the Springfield Symphony. He's also been Principal Pops Conductor for both the Fort Worth and Syracuse Symphonies.

Ron's conducted everything from symphonic works, ballet, and opera to musical theater and over 30 live-to-film productions, including all eight Harry Potter films! He's shared the stage with a diverse array of artists, from classical virtuosos to pop icons like James Taylor, Leslie Odom Jr., and Gladys Knight.

Beyond the baton, Ron is deeply committed to the community. He's board president of Harmony Project Tulsa, bringing music education to underSERVED youth. Ron recently graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State University, receiving a prestigious dean's medal. He lives in Tulsa with his wife, Laura, and their six children.

Savannah Swatland is a small-town farm girl pursuing a dream of singing and performing her own music. She spends her time training horses, working on trucks, and writing music. When she was 14, she won the Mountain Soul Vocal Competition in Sevierville, TN. This kickstarted her career in music leading to her singing the Nation Anthem for a Toby Keith concert, multiple appearances on radio stations, performing live music in both New York and Tennessee, writing and recording her own songs which she has out, and singing the Nation Anthem for many events from political gatherings to rodeos. Savannah is country through and through which shows in her choice of cover songs and her original music.

Savannah visited Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo on June 18, 2025 for a great conversation as well as some of Savannah's original tunes, performed and recorded live In the Flamingo Lounge.

This week's guest In the Flamingo Lounge, Kevin Leary, is a pretty busy guy at the Kenan Center! He's not just the Arts & Culture Program Manager there, but he's also a talented director, choreographer, actor, and arts manager.

Throughout his career, Kevin has had some amazing experiences. He's toured nationally as an actor in shows like The Music Man, 42nd Street, and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. He also worked as an Assistant Director and Male Swing for Singin' in the Rain at the Goodspeed Opera House.

Back home, he's directed The Glass Menagerie and Godspell at the Lancaster Opera House. And over at the Alleyway Theatre, he's showcased his skills as choreographer for Kragtar!: An American Monster Musical and director for Death of a Streetcar Named Virginia Woolf.

Kevin's got a strong educational background too, with a BFA in Acting/Musical Theatre from Wright State University and an MA in Interdisciplinary Studies (focusing on Theatre and Arts Management) from the University at Buffalo.

Jen Karlis & James Brennan from Not Normal joined Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on June 12 2025 to share their story and music off of their first EP, "Furnish the World".

Not Normal is a high-energy rock band composed of four dynamic, multi-instrumentalist frontpeople-turned-family who embrace both an unpredictable future and a lovable sense of nostalgia. Driven by electrifying guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and an unapologetically goofy spirit, they're on a mission to bring catharsis, beautiful mayhem, and fun back to the Buffalo music scene. Their debut EP, "Furnish the World", turns the chaos of a world falling apart into something raw, something loud, and something worth holding onto.

This week's guest, Davey O., is a Buffalo -born songwriter whose work has been praised by Music Critic Jeff Miers as having "a journalist's eye for detail and poet's ear for the well-turned observation". For two decades, Davey has honed his craft, creating deeply introspective Americana that speaks to the human experience rather than political or social themes. His songs are raw, honest, and completely devoid of insincerity, each one a vivid soundtrack for the listener's imagination.

Armed with his Gibson guitar and a tireless work ethic, Davey brings his captivating stories and songs to audiences across the U.S. His dedication has earned him significant recognition, including a New Folk Finalist selection at the Kerrville Folk Festival and opening slots for esteemed artists like Ellis Paul and Suzanne Vega.

Davey joined Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on June 9, 2025 and shared his music and stories.

This week's guest In the Flamingo Lounge, David Cloyd, is an acclaimed singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer, known for his emotive and intricately layered compositions. His upcoming record, Red Sky Warning, due June 6th, is highly anticipated, following the success of singles "Ocean Of Hours" and "Drive With Me," which garnered significant press and Apple Music placements.

A self-made artist, Cloyd recorded his 2009 debut, Unhand Me, You Fiend!, in his 9x9-foot Brooklyn apartment. This album reached #1 on eMusic and led to TV placements. His talent further blossomed with reinterpretations of Radiohead and Paul McCartney, expanding his devoted audience. Now based in Buffalo, where he also founded Hook & Ladder Records, Cloyd continues to carve out a unique space in indie music, with his work often drawing comparisons to artists like Radiohead and Peter Gabriel while maintaining his distinct artistic voice.

David sat down with Rockabilly Greg on may 28, 2025 to talk about his music, and share a few tracks off his latest record, Red Sky Warning.

Armand John Petri stands as a versatile figure in the music industry, excelling as a producer, engineer, and performer. His impactful work includes producing, engineering, and pre-producing five seminal Goo Goo Dolls albums, from Jed through the breakthrough Dizzy Up the Girl. Petri also lent his expertise to 10,000 Maniacs, engineering or producing Candy Everybody Wants, Love Among the Ruins, and Earth Pressed Flat. His diverse portfolio further encompasses engineering or production credits for The Splat Cats and a significant number of Manowar albums. With an impressive catalog of approximately 110 albums, his contributions have been recognized with five multi-platinum and three gold record awards, as well as a Dove Award.

Beyond these notable collaborations, Armand has worked with a wide array of renowned artists, including Sixpence None The Richer, where he served as both personal manager and producer for three of their albums, and the duo John & Mary. His dedication to nurturing local talent is evident in his production work with around 60 bands, and his global reach extends to collaborations in over 50 studios worldwide.

His foundation in music was laid at SUNY Fredonia, where he studied Music and Sound Recording. A year into his studies, he embarked on a full-time touring career as the drummer for the show group Life. Returning to Fredonia, his senior project album, aptly named The Rods, secured a recording contract with Arista Records. His performance experience includes European tours and engagements on cruise ships. Demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit, Armand assembled and produced his own group, Ara Nova, which signed with Refuge Music Group. He has also held the position of staff producer at Pure Metal Records and has directed numerous music videos, showcasing the breadth of his creative talents.

Armand joined Rockabilly Greg in the Flamingo Lounge on May 20, 2025 for an interesting conversation on his storied career.

Buffalo Music Hall Of Fame member Jim Wynne visited the Flamingo Lounge on May 14, 2025 where he shared his musical stories and some special music.

Jim studied music theory and composition at Villa Maria College while taking Bass lessons with Jim Kurzdoerfer and Piano lessons with Leola Erftenbech. He has performed with Dave Constantino, Jony James, Gamalon, Lance Diamond, Ike Smith, Richie Derwald, and Muse.

He is currently playing Bass with The Tony Tripi Band, The Grateful Dead All Stars, and The Jim Wynne Band. He also plays piano with JJ Swing.

Jim also produces and records music for vocalists, bands, and songwriters. He has been recording as a session musician for Robbie Takac and Justin Rose at GCR Studios since it opened.

He has participated in many Veterans Benefit concerts and Wings Of Hope concerts for the purpose of helping people in the community when they need it most.

Jim is also a music instructor available for guitar, piano, and bass guitar lessons. His curriculum is centered on technique, ergonomics, ear training and transcribing notation for the purpose of learning music that the students enjoy.

VØYAGR emerged as a passion project led by singer-songwriters AJ Jabaji, Rachel Josey and drummer John Morano. Drawing inspiration from artists like Wild Rivers and Donovan Woods, their sound fuses folk and country influences, featuring poignant lyrics that explore themes of faith, loss, and relationships. In addition to new music in 2025, the band will be opening for Jason Aldean and Brantley Gilbert at the WYRK Toyota Taste of Country, and showcasing at the North by Northeast (NXNE) Music Festival in Toronto. Their latest EP, "Go On & Get Out," is streaming now.

The band visited the Flamingo Lounge on May 13, 2025 and shred their stories and music.

Emily Scripps and Peter Kern from Tsavo Highway visited the Flamingo Lounge on May 1, 2025. An engaging conversation along with music ensued. There are also special outtakes at the end of the episode.

Quickly gaining recognition in the indie rock and jam scene for their engaging live performances and heartfelt songwriting is Tsavo Highway, a Buffalo-based band consisting of Emily Scripps – lead vocals/various percussion, Christian Dobosiewicz – guitar, Peter Kern – guitar/background vocals, Brian Calisto – bass/background vocals (Buffalo, NY), and Brian McMahon – drums.

The band has shared the stage with an impressive lineup of national acts, including Andy Frasco and The U.N., Spafford, The Magic Beans, Shira Elias (Cool, Cool, Cool), Micheal Angelo Carubba (Remain In Light, and Cool, Cool, Cool), J.WAIL Live Band featuring Natalie Cressman (Trey Anastasio Band), Kito B. (Particle), and Scott Hannay (Mihali Band), yam yam, Thank You Scientist, Underground Springhouse, Seven Teller, and good trees river band. In 2023, they were honored with "Best New Band" and "Best Vocalist" in the AllWNY Awards, cementing their presence in the Western New York music community.

The band made their debut with the EP "Pit Stop" in May 2023, followed by their single "Find a Way" that following December, which was featured in outlets such as NYS Music, Last Day Deaf, and Modern Neon. These releases laid the foundation for their distinctive sound and growing presence.

Most recently, the band unveiled four singles (Buffalo Girls, V Day Song, Introspect, and Marco Polo) leading up to their highly anticipated album, Circles, released January 21, 2025. Filled with dynamic jams, emotional storytelling, and a fresh energy, the album reflects the band's growth and is already generating buzz in the indie and jam music scenes.

Their goal is simple: to create memorable experiences through authentic performances and a shared love of sound.

This week, we're talking with a cool young band making some serious waves (and noise!). Say hello to 8/10: Jason Wrona on guitar, Zack Punturiero on drums, and Wren Andrews on the synths. These guys have a great story – they met at the music mall, sharing practice rooms and eventually forming this awesome trio. They got their start playing parties, friend's houses in basements and under porches where they strive to achieve unique sounds. While they're now hitting the stage, their core remains in the joy of improvisation and making music together. The trio joined Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on April 10, 2025 to talk about how they met and got their sound. They shared to songs, "Mommy" and "Trijangle" which can be heard at the end of the episode.

In 2015, years after setting aside her larger musical dreams to dedicate herself to raising a family, multi-talented singer/songwriter DeeAnn DiMeo is back to create her legacy. Her latest album "It's My Time", currently receiving National airplay with Neal Sapper, New World n Jazz and featuring three original songs amidst a mix of folk, pop and jazz classics, is the latest manifestation of the Niagara Falls, NY native's renewed vision of her life.

DeeAnn visited the Flamingo Lounge on April 8, 2025 to tell her remarkable story, and give us a glimpse into her new single "Simply Beautiful".

Hailing from Buffalo, NY, this week's guests, Mike Geraci and Christian Lee from The Abruptors—weave a tapestry of ska, reggae, and rocksteady, infused with lyrical depth and authentic emotion. Since their 2015 inception, they've navigated the complexities of emotion, fear, relationships, and the inevitable disasters of life. Their latest album, "Everything You Know Is Wrong," released through Asian Man Records, showcases their unique blend of heartfelt storytelling and infectious rhythms. Rounding out the band is Toni LaMantia and Alex Schultz.

Mike and Christian visited the Flamingo Lounge on March 27, 2025 and shared their stories and two tracks from their new record.

This week's guest, Thom Jennings, joined Rockabilly Greg in the Flamingo Lounge on march 24, 2025. Thom is an award-winning music writer and aficionado specializing in classic rock music. With an unwavering passion for the genre, he has spent the last 15 years delving into the timeless sounds that defined an era and capturing the essence of legendary artists through his insightful writings.

Driven by his thirst for knowledge, Thom spent his youth scouring record bins in Western New York for any and all information about his favorite bands. That led to a passion for live music.

In 2008, Thom was an established freelance op-ed writer for the Medina Journal-Register; he had the opportunity to cover a classic rock concert series in Lockport, NY. That morphed into a weekly music column for the Lockport Union Sun & Journal and the Niagara Gazette. Thom is currently the longest-tenured music writer for a daily newspaper in Western New York.

Beyond his writing endeavors, Thom has also hosted podcasts, panel discussions, and presentations at historical societies.

His latest project is Missing Man – The Vince Welnick Story, is a six-part podcast series exploring the life and career of the late keyboardist. The podcast delves into Welnick's musical legacy, his struggles, and the lasting impact he had on those who knew him.

In addition to his work as a writer and speaker, Thom has performed stand-up comedy and is an actor and host for The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery, where he blends his passion for storytelling with interactive entertainment.

This week's guest, Cathy Carfagna, Joined Rockabilly Greg in the Flamingo Lounge on March 19, 2025. Carfagna, a 30-year veteran of Western New York's music scene, began her musical journey as a child, progressing to piano lessons and diverse band experiences. In the 1990s, she toured with the folk-pop duo Jazzabels, earning critical acclaim and releasing two albums. She also contributed to bands like the French Ticklers and Voice of Cheez. Her recording "If You Lose An Angel" was featured in the Oscar-nominated film "Nebraska". Since 2014, Cathy has been active in MusicalFare's Premier Cabaret and has participated in various theater productions, including "Late in the Evening: The World According to Paul Simon."

This week's guest in the Flamingo Lounge, Anthony Casuccio, is not only the President of the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame, but he was recently inducted as a member of the Class of 2024. Anthony visited the Lounge on March 10, 2025 for a great conversation on his music and the ins and outs of getting your music noticed.

Anthony Casuccio was born and raised in Buffalo, New York. He graduated from Williamsville East High School in 1987 and went on to pursue his passion for music. Anthony holds a degree in Sound Recording Technology, which he obtained in 1991 from the prestigious Tonmeister program at SUNY Fredonia. He holds a Master of Science degree from Buffalo State College. This solid foundation laid the groundwork for his illustrious career in the music industry. Professor Casuccio began working at Villa Maria College in 2005 and is currently Chairperson of the Music Department.

Anthony Casuccio's solo career is a testament to his passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to music. As he continues to create, his melodies resonate across continents, leaving an indelible mark on the indie music landscape. And that is just the tip of the iceberg.

David Michael Miller hung out with Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on March 12, 2025, playing and talking about his music.

David Michael Miller, founder, lead vocalist, guitarist and songwriter for Miller and The Other Sinners, is a well-established musician in the Western New York music scene, for 6 years fronting the band, Dive House Union. David has shared the stage with artists such as Tedeschi Trucks Band, Steve Miller Band, Joe Bonamassa, Jonny Lang, Gary Clark Jr., Bobby Blue Bland, Jimmie Vaughan, Shemekia Copeland, Eric Gales and many others. He represented the WNY Blues Society in 2013 and 2014 at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis in both the Band and Solo/Duo categories. He continues to participate in the Blues in the Schools program in Western New York. In 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017, he was presented with the best Male Blues Vocalist Award by Buffalo's Night Life Magazine.

Trimania is back and we kicked off Season 7 with Operations Manager, Lauren McLaughlin, and Special Events & Development Coordinator Sydney O'Shei, from Buffalo Arts Studio.

Buffalo Arts Studio is a 20,000 sq foot art center established in 1991 to provide safe and affordable studio space and impactful exposure for visual artists while also offering arts education and meaningful arts access for the entire community.

In the late 1990s, the largest and most ambitious art party was created as a fundraiser for Buffalo Arts Studio, Just Buffalo Literary Center, and Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center, all organizations housed in the newly redeveloped Tri-Main Center. The event was aptly named "Trimania" as a play on its Tri-Main Center location, its tri-annual schedule, and its support of three area cultural organizations. Trimania took the randomness of chance encounters with art and music to a new level with the support of their landlord Tri-Main Management, who provided access to almost every inch of the 600,000 square-foot Tri-Main Center. After Just Buffalo Literary Center and Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center moved out the Tri-Main center, BAS continued holding the tri-annual fundraiser. After a 7-year hiatus due to covid, the much-anticipated fundraiser is back for its reboot!

This week in the Flamingo Lounge, it's a family affair with father and son Richard and Richie Derwald. Recorded on February 25, 2024.

Richard "Dixie Dee" Derwald, a musician, composer, vocalist, and recording artist, has been active in the music industry since 1957. His career began amidst the explosion of rock and roll, a genre he passionately pursued. During high school, Richard balanced musical ambitions with aspirations of becoming a professional wrestler. He played upright bass and played on extended gigs at the Knickerbocker Lounge located on the Niagara St. corner of Arthur and then at the Capri Lounge also on Niagara St.

Simultaneously, he trained at the YMCA, befriending wrestler Steve Stanlee (Mr. America), who mentored him both in the gym and on the mat. This chance encounter led to a wrestling opportunity in Rochester, where promoter Pedro Martinez offered Richard regular bookings. This propelled him toward his wrestling goal, leading him to leave the band and dedicate himself to the squared circle.

Richie Derwald, a versatile performer, has consistently reinvented himself throughout his career. Beginning with country music tributes in local clubs, he then explored rock with The Memphis Flames, embracing a glam rock persona. The Nightwing Showband era saw him tackling diverse genres, from Las Vegas tributes to light jazz, culminating in opera training and performances at upscale venues.

After a Las Vegas residency, Richie created his critically acclaimed "Live from Las Vegas" show, touring with Sandy Hackett's showcase. A subsequent stint with Whitestar Tours showcased his tribute artistry, alongside his wife Debbie.

The pandemic halted his touring, but Richie channeled his energy into "Comfort Through Creativity," promoting art's mental health benefits. His original song "Changes" received acclaim, leading to a video series addressing mental fitness. Overcoming a stutter, Richie now speaks publicly about his personal struggles with depression, using performance and humor to inspire hope. Dr. Katherine Ansuini calls him the "Poster Child for Experiential Learning."

Today, Richie partners with Nels Ross in "The Up Guys," delivering inspirational presentations blending Ted Talks and "America's Got Talent" elements.

On February 26, 2025, Megan Brown (vocals), Grace Lougan (guitar) and Josh English (drums) of the Rock band "Grosh" joined Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge to talk anout their new album "Start Again" and the upcoming album release show thatwas held on March 7, 2025 at the Town Ballroom in Buffalo NY. Absent from the conversation was Dylan Hund (bass).

Hailing from Buffalo, New York, "Grosh" is a genre-blending powerhouse that effortlessly melds hard rock, blues, and funk into a unique sonic experience. Awarded "Best Local Original Music Act" by Buffalo Spree, the quartet recently recorded their latest album at the iconic Sonic Ranch in Texas, solidifying their place among the region's musical elite. With a live presence as electrifying as their studio recordings, "Grosh" delivers a visceral, unforgettable performance, leaving audiences captivated by their raw energy and undeniable talent.

Alex Cousins joined Rockabilly Greg "In the Flamingo Lounge" on February 17, 2025.

Alex is a 21st-century musician and performing artist, excelling as a virtuoso cellist. Despite a late start at 14, he soloed with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra just three years later, winning the 2014 Young Musicians Scholarship. A 2020 Peabody Conservatory graduate with a Masters in Music, Cello Performance, Alex blends classical training with pioneering work on the electric cello.

After graduating from the Peabody Conservatory, Alex returned to Buffalo where he immersed himself in amplified music, electronics, songwriting, and the electric cello, playing in various local bands from 2022-2024, spanning genres including alternative rock, folk, blues, and pop/indie rock.

A seasoned session musician and educator, Cousins mentors young musicians and has recorded with artists including Robby Takac from the Goo Goo Dolls. He regularly performs in Buffalo Public Schools, demonstrating the versatility of acoustic and electric cellos.

His collaborations include JoAnn Falletta, Marin Alsop, Leon Fleischer, The Eagles, and he has performed at venues including Kleinhans Music Hall, KeyBank Center Arena, SXSW Festival, and the Music is Art Festival.

In 2025, Alex launched "Strings Unbound: An Evening with Alex Cousins," showcasing the electric cello as lead instrument. His seven-piece band will perform reimagined popular music covers from the past 50 years, debuting at The Caz in Buffalo on April 17, 2025.

This week's guest, Ed Croft, joined Rockabilly Greg via Zoom on February 12, 2025.

Ed began his music career in New York City subways with blues icon Carolina Slim, leading to local gigs with his rockabilly band, The Moonshiners. He earned a Bachelor's in Music Education from SUNY Fredonia (2013), where he studied with local masters and performed with Yo Yo Ma. Even before graduating, he launched his touring career, spending two years each with celtic rock band The Town Pants and bluegrass group The Jakobs Ferry Stragglers.

While touring, Ed earned his Master's from Bowling Green State University, studying with renowned musicians and performing with artists like Mike Stern and Dave Samuels. Now based in Buffalo, NY, he's a prominent figure in the local music scene.

As a freelance bassist, Ed has collaborated with Buffalo jazz greats and Buffalo Music Hall of Fam inductees, alongside national and international acts including Tom Roberts and Tia Brazda. He's a consistent award-winner, claiming the JazzBuffalo Poll for Best Acoustic Upright Bassist from 2017-2023. In 2018, he received both the Rising Star and John Hunt Jazz Artist of the Year awards, the first to achieve this dual honor. Ed currently holds the record for consecutive wins in any JazzBuffalo poll category.

Hailing from Buffalo, NY, F.A.R. is a seasoned band formed by college friends Ethan Fox, Drew Azzinaro (a celebrated jazz guitarist), and Eamon Rayhn. Over the past decade, they've built a reputation for their eclectic, soul-drenched performances throughout the Northeast, playing over 150 shows annually.

They have released two albums: "FAR Trio Volume 1" in 2019 and "Ordinary Moments" in 2022, recorded with legendary producer Scott Petito. Their latest album showcases 14 original tracks, offering a diverse range of sounds from organic and soulful to raunchy and blues-tinged.

The band has graced stages at prestigious venues like the Northwest Jazz Festival, the Carnegie Jazz Festival, The Bitter End, Rockwood Music Hall, Shakti Lounge, So Far NYC, etc., and countless other venues and halls together.

Ethan, Drew and Eamon joined Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on January 15, 2025.

Danusia "Beatz" Nowak-Riffel and Dave Riffel, visited the Flamingo Lounge on January 12, 2025 to talk about their music and provide excerpts of some brand new music that is still in Post-Production

Danusia and Dave have been in a musical and life partnership since their 2003 high school band "Besides the Obvious," have built a thriving career in Western New York. Danusia, a renowned drummer mentored by the late Teddy Reinhardt, is known for her groove and collaborations with local greats like The Beard and the Bird and Grace Lougen. Dave, a multi-instrumentalist and producer, complements her with intricate backing tracks and a passion for fostering creativity. Together, they co-own a production studio at the Niagara Arts & Cultural Center, supporting local musicians since 2013. They co-founded Music Garden Sessions, a virtual concert series, and Dave is releasing his debut solo album in 2025. Married with a son, they continue to inspire and uplift their community.

Seamus Gallivan is the 150th guest on In the Flamingo Lounge. He joined Rockabilly Greg On January 22, 2025 for a lively conversation about the local community and connecting people and communities.

Seamus is a social connecter who has lived in a majority of Buffalo's council districts and worked in every single neighborhood. A founding force behind the likes of Larkin Square, Slow Roll Buffalo, and the campaign of India Walton for Buffalo Mayor, his latest venture is Reconnecter, which provides stories and events for social connection.

Seamus had a backdoor entry into the music business. He began careers in both baseball and journalism while still a high school student, working at every level of professional baseball including the Buffalo Bisons along with organizations in Florida and Texas. While back in Buffalo between stints with baseball teams in Texas, he was a preschool teacher of Declan Miers, son of longtime Buffalo News music writer Jeff Miers, forging a bond that led him to become a freelance contributor to the News beginning in 2003.

Seamus stayed on regular assignment for The Buffalo News even after returning to Texas in 2005, covering the local music scene and previewing visits from touring acts, many of which were based in or passing through Austin. While working in baseball there, he joined the review staff of NPR affiliate KUT Radio, and cofounded the annual Reckless Kelly's Celebrity Softball Jam, which over 10 years donated nearly a half-million dollars to local charities.

Upon repatriating to Buffalo in 2009, Seamus founded The Good Neighborhood, often "gathering for the greater good" at music clubs such as the Sportsmens Tavern, Nietzsche's and Mohawk Place with a cause for every concert as well as a daily website covering community. This venture led to invitations to be a founding part of Larkin Square and Slow Roll Buffalo, the former celebrated in a 2012 Buffalo News column that described him as an "omnipresent culture maven."

After Larkin and Slow Roll became the bulk of Seamus' work for the better part of a decade, Reconnecter is both a return to and evolution of the purpose of The Good Neighborhood, and music remains at its heart - his free weekly email, the Buffalodown, includes "Musings on Music," a concert-heavy list of upcoming community events, and links to conversations on music as a force for social connection.

This week's guest In the Flamingo Lounge, Rob Lynch joined Rockabilly Greg on January 9, 2025. Rob is a triple threat – Educator, Artist and musician. Always looking to wear more hats, Rob has worked as a contributing reviewer for the Buffalo News, a hat model for Buffalo Spree Magazine, a guerrilla gardener, Block Club leader, Half-Marathon runner, a maker of travel films and was featured in a 2015 ad campaign for Excelsior Orthopedics. In 2017 he founded Lilac Park in Downtown Niagara Falls, NY. He kids you not.

Rob, an award-winning session drummer, has worked with many renowned artists including Peter Case, Gurf Morlix, Al Tinney and 10,000 Maniacs founders/members John and Mary, just to name a few. Rob has also enjoyed recording with Hussalonia and Jonathan Hughes on their separate solo projects as well as a yearly recording project of non-traditional Christmas songs known as Robot Holiday.

Working along with Matthew Sagurney as The Solo Roths, they produce large scale improvisational paintings, often in front of an audience – most recently at the 2024 Music is Art Festival. Both Rob's paintings and The Solo Roth's works are held in numerous private and public collections nationwide, and have been exhibited in Western New York and beyond through solo and group shows.

This week's guest In the Flamingo Lounge, Yod Crewsy, recorded on January 4, 2025, is a former guitarist with the Splatcats, founding member of the legendary garage rock and roll band the JackLords and band leader of the Dark Marbles.

Yod opened for Roy Orbison at Kleinhans Music Hall in Buffalo with the JackLords in 1989. Other infamous moments include him opening for the Ramones at Fredonia State College with the revved-up punk band the SplatCats. His most recent achievment was the airing of recent recording of "Runaround" from his "Brit-Pop Faves" CD on Little Steven's Underground Garage on SiriusXM.

This week's guest In the Flamingo Lounge is author and Kenmore native, Jerry Kranitz. Jerry recently published a memoir "Putt-Putt Abuse" of his days growing up in Kenmore NY in the 1970's. He is also the author of "Cassette Culture: Homemade Music and the Creative Spirit in the Pre-Internet Age".For 18 years he published the Aural Innovations space rock web zine and podcast. Jerry is a freelance writer who has contributed to Shindig! magazine, and his essays have accompanied archival reissues.

The memoir includes It includes a chapter gushing about his Rock n Roll passions: Concerts at Shea's, Century Theater, Niagara Falls Convention Center, the AUD, and Summerfest at Rich Stadium. It also includes memories of Talas, Big Wheelie and the Hubcaps, and other amazing bands at He & She's and crate digging records at Play It Again Sams, Cavages, and 3:00 am sales at Record Theater.

Jerry and I had a great conversation about his days in Kenmore and his recollections of music venues and concerts he attended. Jerry joined me virtually on December 7, 2024.

This week's guest, Grace Vesneske, joined Rockabilly Greg "In the Flamingo Lounge" on August 18, 2024. They talked about her beginnings managing events to her current status as a behind-the-scenes force in the Music industry.

Grace brings her unique blend of creativity, strategic vision, and passion for positive change to every project she undertakes. With a deep appreciation for the arts and a commitment to community and social responsibility, Grace seamlessly combines her love for music with her dedication to making a difference.

As a seasoned professional in the music business, Grace has honed her skills in talent management, event coordination, and experiential activations. She has a keen eye for coordinating events and a knack for crafting innovative strategies to elevate events while staying true to the vision. A visionary entrepreneur with a passion for creating unforgettable moments. As the proud co-owner of Buffalo Iron Works and co-founder of Twenty6 Productions, Grace has built a reputation for transforming ideas into extraordinary experiences. From the outset, her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish a venture dedicated to curating seamless and remarkable events and then co-owner of her favorite community spot, Buffalo Iron Works! From day-to-day operations to developing programming, she has a hand in all departments.

Professional Drummer

Founder, The Damone Jackson Outcome

Music Educator & Mentor

Damone "A-Miracle" Jackson is a drum set specialist and percussion teacher living in Western NY. Damone graduated from Villa Maria College in 2014 with a B.A. in Music Performance and a concentration in jazz. He has won several awards, including Best Blues Drummer in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 by the Buffalo Music Awards.

Recently, Damone has been on tour in South America and Europe playing shows and teaching master-classes. He is thankful that music has provided the opportunity to play with many truly fine musicians in the Buffalo area as well and all over the world. Damone gigs extensively throughout Western New York and is one of the area's most in-demand drummers for both live shows and studio work.

Currently, he is the drummer and founder of The Damone Jackson Outcome. Also plays drums periodically for the Dave Matthews Tribute Band.

Music is an essential part of our culture and live venues allow fans, who are the lifeblood of the music industry, to experience the music in a way that they cannot through recordings.

This week, get ready to tee up some serious music talk as I'm excited to welcome back to the podcast, valued sponsor and Managing Partner of Golf Operations at Diamond Hawk Golf Course and Pub, Don Papaj.

When we last connected, we were on location at 'The Hawk' witnessing the transformation of a clubhouse into a vibrant live music venue. It was a bold move, a risky play, but one that speaks volumes about the power of music.

Don visited the Flamingo Lounge on December 6, 2024 where we talked music and took a deeper dive and explored the world of live music, venues, and community.

This week's guest, Mr. Conrad, joined Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on November 19, 2024. Mr. Conrad, a lifelong lover of blues, rockabilly, and swing, has been immersed in the music scene since his early teens. Inspired by legends like Big Joe Turner, Bill Haley, and Chuck Berry, he dove deep into the genre's history, discovering influences like T-Bone Walker.

A pivotal moment came in 1969 when he saw Jerry Lee Lewis perform, inspiring him to pick up the piano. After gaining experience in local bands, he joined the East Side music scene in Buffalo, jamming with renowned musicians like Eli Hall and Count Rabbit. This exposure honed his skills and instilled a deep understanding of the music's emotional core.

In the 1980s, Conrad formed Mr. Conrad and The Excellos, gaining local recognition. However, his ambition led him to Austin, Texas, where he collaborated with renowned musicians like Keith Ferguson. He later moved to Los Angeles, further solidifying his reputation as a talented guitarist and performer.

Now back in Buffalo, Mr. Conrad continues to share his passion for blues and rockabilly, captivating audiences with his energetic performances. His deep knowledge of the genre and his dedication to the music make him a true legend in the Buffalo music scene.

Marc Hunt, a 2012 inductee in the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame, joined Rockabilly Greg In the Flamingo Lounge on November 18, 2024. Marc has performed on, produced and engineered over 100 local recording sessions including the "Goo Goo Dolls" and more. Marc studied guitar and piano at Berklee College of Music in Boston.

As a performer, Marc has been nominated for several local music awards. He is a former member of the band "Bobo" and "The Pillagers" and is currently a Bass Player at "The Cloves". Interestingly, Marc spent many summers playing a deputy and outlaw for Fantasy Island.

Marc is an educator active in the community and has been published in musical education magazines and journals.

Marc was a Stage Technician for Walt Disney World Entertainment in Orlando where he handled staging lighting and audio equipment along with mixing for live theatre. Marc was owner and chief engineer of EarCandy Audio, a studio that catered to local artists. He was Chief Engineer for Chameleonwest Recording Studios. He is a member of the Audio Engineering Society (AES) and is a certified ProTools engineer. He started the EDGE Sessions with Rich Wall.

Marc is active in the community and is an original board member of Music is Art and is a Teacher of Video Production & Recording Arts at Erie 1 BOCES Calspan.

This week's guest, local music legend George Puleo, visited the Flamingo Lounge on November 14, 2024.

From his early days with Gamalon and the Need to his recent work with Haiku and the Damone Jackson Outcome, George's impact on the local music scene is undeniable.

George is also the owner of Apples and Oranges Records and Tapes, located on Delaware Ave in Kenmore NY.

Get ready to rock out with this week's guest, Kevin Sampson! This 20-year Buffalo music veteran has been tearing up stages with bands like The Innocent Bystanders, the Jealous Unknowns, and First Ward. As a multi-talented musician, Sampson is a force to be reckoned with, whether he's performing with Kevin Sampson and the Night Shift, Shutterhead, or The Safety Meeting. In 2021, he took his passion for music to the next level by opening Jack Rabbit, a killer rock 'n' roll club in the Elmwood Village. A true supporter of the local scene, Sampson is always out and about, attending and hosting shows.

Sampson joined Rockabilly Greg on November 11 In the Flamingo Lounge for a great conversation and a provided a special track special track from "Kevin Sampson and the Nightshift" called "Nothing to Lose".

This week, we welcome back a familiar face to the Flamingo Lounge: my best friend and musical partner, Steve Metivier. While we've previously interviewed each other, this time we'll delve deeper into Steve's musical journey, including his other project, "Crosswinds." And as a special treat, Steve recorded an original song that he wrote as a response to 9/11 entitled "Bridge" exclusively for the Flamingo Lounge, which we'll unveil at the end of the session.

Steve joined Rockabilly Greg in the Flamingo Lounge on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 after performing at Bristol Village as part of Rockin Robin's "Music to Remember WNY" program.