Send us a textThe next Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast features a rare conversation with Inductee Garland Jeffreys and LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham which previously aired on Long Island’s The “Sounds of Film” on WUSB.Garland Jeffreys is a genre-defying artist whose music reflects his rich heritage as a child of Black, white, and Puerto Rican ancestry. Raised in Brooklyn during the 1950s, Jeffreys absorbed influences ranging from R&B and early rock and roll to iconic voices like Kate Smith. His career began in the folk scene, performing in legendary Greenwich Village venues before recording his first album with Grinder’s Switch in 1970.As a solo artist, Jeffreys released his self-titled debut in 1973, featuring collaborators like Dr. John. That same year, he introduced his timeless anthem, ‘Wild in the Streets.’ In 1981, he charted with his cover of ‘96 Tears’ and later explored themes of love, race, and identity in albums like ‘Guts for Love’ (1983) and ‘Don’t Call Me Buckwheat’ (1992). His 2017 release, ‘14 Steps to Harlem,’ combines autobiographical storytelling with tributes to his friendships with Lou Reed, Bob Marley, and John Lennon.Garland Jeffreys’ music continues to inspire, earning him a place among the most innovative voices in rock and soul.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast, host Tom Needham welcomes three-time Grammy nominee Brady Rymer, one of the most celebrated artists in family music. For nearly 25 years, Brady and his Little Band That Could have energized audiences with their high-energy rock ‘n’ roll, heartfelt messages of kindness, and catchy, joyful songs.A pioneer in the independent family music scene, Brady has released 12 studio albums, including Grammy-nominated favorites “Press Play,” “Just Say Hi!” and “Here Comes Brady Rymer and the Little Band That Could.” Known for his advocacy of neurodiversity acceptance, he regularly performs sensory-friendly shows and has been celebrated for his groundbreaking album “Love Me For Who I Am.”When not performing family music, Brady plays bass with his jam band From Good Homes, having toured alongside legends like the Dave Matthews Band, Bob Dylan, and Bob Weir’s Ratdog. He also spent over a decade as a bassist in the Laurie Berkner Band and has contributed music to notable projects like HBO’s “A Family Is A Family Is A Family” and Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move campaign.On this episode, Brady shares insights into his latest holiday album, “Revvin’ Up the Reindeer,” a vibrant collection of 13 original songs sure to bring fresh cheer to the holiday season.Don’t miss this heartwarming conversation as we celebrate Brady Rymer’s career, his uplifting music, and his contributions to the Long Island music community.

Send us a textJoin Vice Chairman Tom Needham and fellow board members Ernie Canadeo, Norm Prusslin, Jim Faith, and Jeffrey James as they lead a lively panel discussion at the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame in Stony Brook Village. Together, they delve into the fascinating history of LIMEHOF, from its founding in 2004 as a vision to celebrate Long Island’s unique musical heritage, to its growth into a cornerstone of the community.Learn how LIMEHOF has honored over 100 artists, developed innovative educational programs, awarded scholarships to young musicians, and created a state-of-the-art mobile museum. The panel also reflects on notable milestones, like Billy Joel’s recognition of the “Long Island Sound,” and the organization’s role in preserving the region’s diverse musical legacy.This engaging discussion offers a behind-the-scenes look at the passion and dedication that have driven LIMEHOF’s mission to inspire future generations.

Send us a textOn this episode of the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast, we are honored to feature inductee Jay Siegel of The Tokens. Known for their timeless classic “The Lion Sleeps Tonight,” The Tokens made history with Jay’s unforgettable falsetto and hits like “Tonight I Fell In Love.” Beyond their own chart-toppers, The Tokens became the first vocal group to produce a million-seller for another artist, crafting iconic songs like The Chiffons’ “He’s So Fine,” Randy and the Rainbows’ “Denise,” and Tony Orlando and Dawn’s “Tie a Yellow Ribbon.”Over the years, the Tokens shared the stage with legends like The Beatles, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard, cementing their legacy as pop music pioneers.Inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2008, Jay Siegel continues to inspire with his remarkable contributions to American music. Tune in to hear him share the stories behind the hits and his extraordinary journey in the industry.

Send us a textThe LIMEHOF Podcast is thrilled to have Rick Shutter as our special guest.Rick is an iconic drummer and percussionist whose career spans decades of groundbreaking contributions to music. From performing in the original New York production of Godspell at just 19, to working with legendary artists and projects like The Drifters, Bo Diddley, and The Young Executives, Rick has left an indelible mark on the music world. His drumming defined the sound of Godspell, earning Grammy recognition, and he continues to inspire with his performances on Long Island and beyond.Join us as we dive into Rick’s fascinating journey, from his early days in Malverne, New York, to his work with some of the biggest names in music and theater.

Send us a textThe next episode of the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast, hosted by Tom Needham, features an engaging interview with rock icon Vince Martell from the LIMEHOF inductee band, Vanilla Fudge. Known for pioneering “psychedelic symphonic rock,” Vanilla Fudge was one of the earliest American bands to fuse psychedelic sounds with heavy rock, laying the groundwork for genres like heavy metal. Martell and his bandmates became famous for their unique approach, transforming popular songs into epic, slowed-down arrangements. Their version of The Supremes’ “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” stands out as a defining track that established them as rock innovators.Formed in 1965, Vanilla Fudge originally performed under the name The Pigeons before adopting their signature sound and rebranding. With the addition of drummer Carmine Appice and guidance from producer George “Shadow” Morton, the band quickly gained attention for their intense and psychedelic performances. Their debut album, “Vanilla Fudge,” released in June 1967, achieved critical success, climbing to #4 on the charts and establishing the band’s presence in the rock world.Following the success of “The Beat Goes On” and “Renaissance,” Vanilla Fudge continued to influence the rock scene, touring with renowned acts like Jimi Hendrix, Cream, and Led Zeppelin. Known for their dynamic performances and genre-bending style, they appeared on iconic TV shows such as The Ed Sullivan Show and The Merv Griffin Show, further expanding their reach. Though the band disbanded in 1970, Martell remained active in the music world, performing, recording, and connecting with fans.Reuniting in 1984, Vanilla Fudge continued to release new music and tour, showcasing their lasting influence on rock. Highlights include their album “Mystery,” which featured a collaboration with Jeff Beck, and their tribute to Led Zeppelin, “Out Through the In Door.” Inducted into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame in 2006, Vanilla Fudge continues to celebrate milestones, including their 50th anniversary in 2017. In this podcast episode, Vince Martell shares stories of the band’s storied career, offering listeners an exclusive look at Vanilla Fudge’s lasting legacy in rock music.

Send us a textIn this heartfelt episode titled A Tribute to Saxophonist Pat DeRosa, listeners are invited to experience a special event recorded live at the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame. This celebration honors the life and career of inductee Pat DeRosa, a remarkable saxophonist who, at the age of 100, was recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the Oldest Professional Saxophone Player. Born in Brooklyn in 1921 and later relocating to Huntington, Long Island, Pat’s journey with the saxophone began at the age of 12. Self-taught, he overcame challenges to build a musical legacy that spans decades, from performing in nightclubs across New York to joining the prestigious Glenn Miller Army Air Force Band during WWII. Over the years, Pat shared the stage with legends such as Bob Hope, Milton Berle, and John Coltrane, with whom he performed for three years.The tribute includes personal stories from Pat’s daughter, Patricia DeRosa Padden, an accomplished pianist and vocalist who serves as the musical director for the Pat DeRosa Orchestra, and his granddaughter, Nicole DeRosa Padden, a talented vocalist, flutist, and pianist who carries on Pat’s legacy in his band. Pat’s longtime friend and fellow performer, Bob Levy, a veteran NYC journalist, adds his voice to the celebration, sharing memories of their shows together.Hosted by Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Vice Chairman Tom Needham, this episode captures the warmth, dedication, and joy that defined Pat DeRosa’s life in music, offering listeners an intimate look at the stories, achievements, and family bonds that made him a legend. Join us in honoring a man whose passion for music and commitment to sharing it with the world have left an enduring legacy on Long Island and beyond.

Send us a textIn this special episode of the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast, we present a previously recorded interview from the Port Jefferson Documentary Film Series featuring the creators and stars of “HARRY CHAPIN: WHEN IN DOUBT, DO SOMETHING.” Join director Rick Korn, producers S.A. Baron and Jason Chapin, singer-songwriter Jen Chapin, and LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham, as they discuss the life and legacy of the legendary Harry Chapin.This powerful documentary highlights Chapin’s iconic music career—known for hits like “Taxi” and “Cats in the Cradle”—and his relentless mission to end world hunger and poverty. Featuring appearances by music legends and LIMEHOF inductees like Billy Joel, Pat Benatar, and Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, along with Bruce Springsteen, Sir Bob Geldof, and Harry Belafonte, the film showcases Chapin’s immense impact on millions of lives.Don’t miss this exclusive look into the making of the film and Chapin’s enduring influence as one of the most socially-conscious artists in music history.

Send us a textMark Rivera will be featured on the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast.Mark Rivera is renowned as Billy Joel’s saxophonist and the Musical Director for Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band. A multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, Rivera has spent the last 50 years sharing the stage with some of rock’s biggest legends, including John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Elton John, Simon & Garfunkel, Foreigner, Peter Frampton, Tony Bennett, Sheila E., Joe Walsh, Hall & Oates, and Peter Gabriel.Rivera has also made appearances on TV in “Kevin Can Wait” and “The 25th Anniversary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Concert.”A devoted husband and father for nearly four decades, Rivera’s memoir “Sideman” reflects on his struggles to balance the high-octane life of a globe-trotting rock musician with the everyday responsibilities of family life. His constant drive to play music kept him chasing “the next gig.”During the global pandemic, the sideman found himself forced to put down his instruments and reflect on his life and career. Through optimism, humor, and candid storytelling, Rivera reveals what it takes to rise and stay in the music industry while also offering a glimpse into the human side of a career spent playing alongside legendary performers.

Send us a textThe Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame is excited to share audio from an exclusive Q&A at a screening of the documentary, JACKIE MARTLING: JOKE MAN at the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame.Long Island's Jackie "The Joke Man" Martling may just be America's last great joke teller. His savant-like ability to remember every joke he's heard since he was eight years old, combined with his lightning-fast wit and infectious laugh, helped establish him as a comedy icon. Famous for being the head writer of the Howard Stern show for 15 years and infamous for leaving that position, Jackie's story is fascinating, funny, and heartwarming. In an age of political correctness, Jackie "The Joke Man" Martling helps us belly-laugh at ourselves with kindness and sincerity that defuses his unfiltered punch lines.In his feature documentary we learn Jackie’s improbable story, from the fledgling days of comedy on Long Island, through his time as one of the "Beatles of Radio”, to his success as an author and actor. Willie Nelson, Penn Jillette, Billy West, Artie Lang, Marc Cuban, Sean Young and a bunch of former Stern show staffers give us their take on what makes him truly unique. Listen to the conversation of Jackie Martling and Tom Needham here on the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast.