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The 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.

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In 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.

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In 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.