The Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast

Send us a textThe Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame podcast welcomes Grammy-nominated producer, composer, and author Fred Mollin for an intimate conversation about his remarkable career. From producing timeless hits like Dan Hill’s Sometimes When We Touch to crafting music for Disney’s beloved children’s albums, Mollin has left a profound mark on multiple generations of listeners. His work spans collaborations with icons such as Billy Joel, Jimmy Webb, Johnny Mathis, and Michael McDonald, as well as memorable scores for television and film.In this episode, Mollin opens up about the highs and lows revealed in his new memoir Unplugged: Stories and Secrets from a Life of Making Records, Scoring Film, and Working With the Legends of Music. He shares candid reflections on the art of producing, the surprises of working with legendary performers, and the creative risks that defined his path. Listeners will hear stories that reveal both the joy and the challenges of a life spent inside the music industry.As he prepares for a live Q&A and performance at the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame on Sunday, August 31st at 3 pm, Mollin offers perspective not only on his own journey, but also on the shifting role of producers and songwriters in today’s rapidly changing music landscape. It’s a rare chance to hear directly from one of Long Island’s most versatile musical talents—a storyteller who has spent his life behind the boards and in the spotlight, shaping the soundtrack of our culture.Buy tickets to visit LIMEHOF at: https://www.limusichalloffame.org/tickets-and-gift-cards/ The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at: 97 Main StreetStony Brook, NY 11790Email: info@limusichalloffame.orgPhone: 631-689-5888

Send us a textOn this episode of the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast, we sit down with Long Island director Rob Lichter—known to fans as Bert Blotto—and Broadway Blotto. Their new film, Hello! My Name Is Blotto, just won the Independent Spirit Award at the LIMEHOF Music Documentary Film Festival, and it’s already being hailed as a hilarious, heartfelt tribute to one of the Capital Region’s most unforgettable bands.The documentary captures Blotto’s wild journey—from their beginnings as the Star Spangled Washboard Band, to their breakout hit “I Wanna Be A Lifeguard” (famously the 36th video ever aired on MTV), through moments of triumph, heartbreak, and reunion. With rare footage, behind-the-scenes stories, and candid interviews, the film offers a definitive look at the band’s legacy.In this conversation, Bert and Broadway open up about the making of the documentary, the unique chemistry that fueled Blotto’s music and comedy, and what it means to see their story honored with an award at LIMEHOF. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the Blotto universe, this episode is packed with laughs, history, and heart.Buy tickets to visit LIMEHOF at: https://www.limusichalloffame.org/tickets-and-gift-cards/ The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at: 97 Main StreetStony Brook, NY 11790Email: info@limusichalloffame.orgPhone: 631-689-5888

Send us a textThe LIMEHOF Podcast welcomes best-selling author and literary icon Lee Child, the creator of the Jack Reacher series, for a captivating conversation with host Tom Needham. Often hailed by The New York Times as “the best thriller writer of the moment,” Lee Child joins the show to discuss the intriguing new short film, “If Jack Reacher Could Sing,” which will be featured at the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame’s Music Documentary Film Series on Saturday, August 9th at 1:15 PM. The screening will be followed by a Q&A and performance by Naked Blue.“If Jack Reacher Could Sing” is part of a double-feature with “Garland Jeffreys: The King of In Between” at the LIMEHOF Music Doc Film Festival. In this special episode, Child dives into his unexpected collaboration with the indie Americana band Naked Blue, and how their partnership led to a unique musical interpretation of his legendary character. “If Jack Reacher Could Sing” provides fans with a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the fusion of literature and music, showcasing Child’s creative evolution and the enduring impact of Jack Reacher on popular culture. The film culminates in the original song and music video, “Clothes On My Back,” written and performed by Naked Blue.This episode is a must-listen for fans of thrillers, music documentaries, and anyone interested in how characters leap from the page to influence other art forms. Buy tickets to visit LIMEHOF at: https://www.limusichalloffame.org/tickets-and-gift-cards/ The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at: 97 Main StreetStony Brook, NY 11790Email: info@limusichalloffame.orgPhone: 631-689-5888

Send us a textLIMEHoF Podcast Shines a Spotlight on Legendary Promoter Ron Delsener and Filmmaker Jake SumnerThe Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast presents a special episode featuring director Jake Sumner, whose feature documentary Ron Delsener Presents explores the life and groundbreaking career of one of New York’s most influential concert promoters.Through archival material, personal stories, and exclusive interviews with music legends like Bruce Springsteen, Patti Smith, Billy Joel, Paul Simon, Jon Bon Jovi, Cher, Gene Simmons, and Lorne Michaels, the film traces how Ron Delsener transformed the live music industry over six decades—from promoting the Beatles at Forest Hills Tennis Stadium to producing Simon & Garfunkel’s iconic reunion concert in Central Park.In this engaging conversation, Sumner—known for his award-winning documentaries Fantastic Man: Who is William Onyeabor? and Bob of the Park—discusses his creative approach to telling Delsener’s story, what it took to capture the spirit of New York’s evolving music scene, and how Delsener’s innovative vision shaped today’s global concert industry.With a deep mix of humor, nostalgia, and musical history, the episode offers fans and film lovers an inside look at a fascinating figure whose influence can still be felt in venues across the world.Ron Delsener Presents will be a featured selection at the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Music Documentary Film Festival, screening on Sunday, August 10th at 3:30 PM.Purchase tickets to the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame Music Documentary Film Festival at https://longislandmusicandentertainmenthalloffame1.thundertix.com/events/250204Buy tickets to visit LIMEHOF at: https://www.limusichalloffame.org/tickets-and-gift-cards/ The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at: 97 Main StreetStony Brook, NY 11790Email: info@limusichalloffame.orgPhone: 631-689-5888

Send us a textIn this special episode of the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast, Tom Needham speaks with Russell Javors, former guitarist for Billy Joel and a founding member of the Lords of 52nd Street. A proud LIMEHOF inductee, Russell reflects on his journey from local musician to playing on some of the most iconic records in rock history.He shares personal stories about growing up on the Island, his early musical partnership with Liberty DeVitto and Doug Stegmeyer, and the unique chemistry that powered Billy Joel’s classic albums and tours. From the recording studio to Madison Square Garden, Russell offers an insider’s view of a golden era in American music.This warm and revealing conversation captures the spirit of a true Long Island legend whose rhythm and heart helped shape a generation’s soundtrack. Whether you’re a die-hard Billy Joel fan or just love great music stories, this episode is not to be missed.Buy tickets to visit LIMEHOF at: https://www.limusichalloffame.org/tickets-and-gift-cards/ The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at: 97 Main StreetStony Brook, NY 11790Email: info@limusichalloffame.orgPhone: 631-689-5888

Send us a textIn this special episode of the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast, we feature highlights from a recent live Q&A and retrospective film screening with award-winning director Joe Pomarico, recorded at LIMEHOF’s museum in Stony Brook as part of our Monthly Local Filmmakers Series. A proud native of West Babylon, Pomarico shared a block of his comedy, drama, and thriller shorts, including Roach the Coach, Feline Abduction, and Jiggle the Handle, along with several festival favorites dating back to 2008.Pomarico, who has earned acclaim for his ability to capture subtle, deeply human moments, discussed his evolution as a filmmaker, his creative process, and the challenges of producing independent films on Long Island with limited resources. The event was hosted by LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham and included a candid conversation that explored Pomarico’s journey from painter to director, and his lifelong inspiration drawn from his grandfather, Augustus Massaro.Listeners will also hear exclusive insights about Pomarico’s passion projects and his latest TV pilot Roach the Coach, starring comedian Chris Roach. This episode is a celebration of Long Island’s indie film scene and the unique vision of a local storyteller whose work continues to resonate with audiences.Buy tickets to visit LIMEHOF at: https://www.limusichalloffame.org/tickets-and-gift-cards/ The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at: 97 Main StreetStony Brook, NY 11790Email: info@limusichalloffame.orgPhone: 631-689-5888

Send us a textIn the latest episode of the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast, we celebrate the upcoming induction of The Hassles—a legendary 1960s Long Island band that helped launch Billy Joel’s career. Host Tom Needham speaks with drummer and original member Jon Small for an intimate conversation about the group’s early days, their rise on the local rock and soul scene, and their enduring impact on Long Island’s musical legacy.Beyond his work with The Hassles and the short-lived duo Attila with Joel, Jon Small forged a groundbreaking career as a pioneering director and producer of concert films and music videos. He went on to work with artists like Garth Brooks, Whitney Houston, Van Morrison, and Aerosmith, famously directing the iconic “Walk This Way” video featuring Run-DMC and Aerosmith. In this episode, Jon shares stories from his decades behind the camera and reflects on the honor of being inducted into LIMEHOF.Buy tickets to visit LIMEHOF at: https://www.limusichalloffame.org/tickets-and-gift-cards/ The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at: 97 Main StreetStony Brook, NY 11790Email: info@limusichalloffame.orgPhone: 631-689-5888

Send us a textOn this episode of the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast, we present a panel discussion recorded live at LIMEHOF in Stony Brook as part of the ongoing Local Filmmakers Series. The featured event celebrated Huntington director Sean Quincy King with a screening of his latest film, Screamwalkers. Following the screening, the audience enjoyed a lively and insightful conversation moderated by LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham, featuring Screamwalkers director Sean King and cast and crew members Bob Heckman, Will Puntarich, Glenn McBride Jr., and Peter Bune Jr.The Local Filmmakers Series highlights the creative talents emerging from Long Island’s independent film scene, offering a platform for regional filmmakers to share their work and connect with the community. Screamwalkers, shot in various Long Island locations, represents King’s continued dedication to producing high-quality genre films rooted in local storytelling. This episode offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film and the collaborative spirit that defines Long Island’s filmmaking culture.Buy tickets to visit LIMEHOF at: https://www.limusichalloffame.org/tickets-and-gift-cards/ The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at: 97 Main StreetStony Brook, NY 11790Email: info@limusichalloffame.orgPhone: 631-689-5888

Send us a textIn this episode of the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast, host Tom Needham explores the legacy of legendary composer and LIMEHOF inductee Aaron Copland. Known as the “Dean of American Composers,” Copland helped define a distinctly American sound with iconic works such as Appalachian Spring, Fanfare for the Common Man, and Rodeo. His groundbreaking compositions, film scores, and role as a mentor made him one of the most influential musical figures of the 20th century.Tom is joined by Michael Boriskin, Artistic and Executive Director of Copland House, to discuss Copland’s impact on American music and the mission of Copland House as a living tribute to his work. Located at Copland’s former home in Westchester, the organization is expanding with the development of Copland House at Bluestone Farm—an ambitious new cultural center dedicated to nurturing American composers and creativity.Together, they reflect on Copland’s deep connections to New York, his role in shaping generations of musicians, and the enduring power of his music to inspire and unite. It’s a fascinating look at how one composer’s legacy continues to resonate through performances, education, and the ongoing support of new musical voices.Buy tickets to visit LIMEHOF at: https://www.limusichalloffame.org/tickets-and-gift-cards/ The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at: 97 Main StreetStony Brook, NY 11790Email: info@limusichalloffame.orgPhone: 631-689-5888

Send us a textOn this episode of the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast, host Tom Needham sits down with Hall of Fame inductee Randy Jackson, lead vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter of the iconic rock band Zebra. Known for their dynamic live performances and a sound that blends the power of Led Zeppelin with the complexity of Yes and the melodic sensibilities of the Moody Blues, Zebra burst onto the scene in the 1980s with their self-titled debut album—Atlantic Records’ fastest-selling debut at the time.Randy shares stories from the band’s early days, their rise to fame with hits like “Who’s Behind the Door” and “Tell Me What You Want,” and how Zebra built a loyal fan base that spans decades. He also talks about the band’s upcoming 50th Anniversary Tour, presented by WBAB, and reflects on the lasting impact of Zebra’s music.Catch Zebra live at their 50th Anniversary Tour stop on Saturday, May 17 at 8:00 PM at the Westbury Music Fair.Buy tickets to visit LIMEHOF at: https://www.limusichalloffame.org/tickets-and-gift-cards/ The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at: 97 Main StreetStony Brook, NY 11790Email: info@limusichalloffame.orgPhone: 631-689-5888