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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.

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Mark 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.

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The 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.

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On this episode of The LIMEHOF Podcast, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Joe Bouchard, a true rock legend and former member of the iconic Blue Öyster Cult. During his unforgettable run with the band throughout the '70s and '80s, Joe’s remarkable bass playing, vocals, and songwriting helped define the band's sound. His contributions not only dominated the charts but also earned him nine gold and two platinum awards, a testament to the band’s commercial success and his undeniable talent.

After stepping away from Blue Öyster Cult in 1986, Joe hasn’t slowed down. He’s released seven solo albums, each showcasing his ever-evolving artistry. His latest release, "American Rocker," is a testament to his enduring passion for music and his ability to keep captivating audiences. Beyond his solo work, Joe continues to perform with bands like Blue Coupe, proving that his legacy in rock is still very much alive.

Join us as we explore Joe Bouchard’s incredible career, from the heights of Blue Öyster Cult’s success to his thriving solo ventures, and what keeps him rocking after all these years.

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Kenny Vance Joins Tom Needham to discuss his upcoming PBS Airing of "Heart and Soul" on New York's Channel 13 at 6:30 PM on Sunday, September 22nd.

Growing up in New York, Kenny Vance was mesmerized by the allure of rock ‘n’ roll. By the age of fifteen, he was spending time at the renowned Brill Building, connecting with other singers and songwriters. Eventually, he co-founded the successful group Jay and The Americans, who had the unique honor of opening for both The Beatles and The Rolling Stones during their first U.S. performances.

Kenny remained a key member of Jay and The Americans throughout their eleven-year run, during which the group toured extensively and recorded fifteen albums. Their hits included “Come A Little Bit Closer,” “Cara Mia,” “She Cried,” and “Only In America.” After the group disbanded, Kenny embarked on a wide-ranging career, starting with producing the first record for Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, the duo behind Steely Dan. He went on to compose, supervise, and produce numerous scores and soundtracks for both films and television. Notably, he breathed musical life into the film about Alan Freed, “American Hot Wax,” by recreating 1950s and 1960s musical groups for the screen. The Planotones were originally formed for this film and made their first on-screen appearance.

Additionally, Vance served as musical director for “Saturday Night Live” and worked as music supervisor for films such as “Animal House,” “Eddie & The Cruisers,” and “Looking For An Echo.” As an actor, Kenny has appeared in films including “Hurly Burly,” “Billy Bathgate,” “American Hot Wax,” “Eddie & The Cruisers,” as well as Woody Allen’s “Manhattan,” “Stardust Memories,” “Crimes and Misdemeanors,” and “Husbands and Wives.”

Throughout his long and successful career in the entertainment industry, Kenny’s true passion remained singing. In 1992, he re-formed The Planotones, bringing his soulful vocals to new heights.

In recognition of his contributions, Kenny Vance was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002, and in 2007, he was inducted into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame.

Kenny Vance's film, "Heart and Soul," celebrates the pioneering contributions of iconic 1950s artists such as Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers, The Chantels, The Jive Five, and Little Anthony and the Imperials. Through this documentary, Vance pays tribute to the early doo-wop and R&B legends who shaped the sound of American music, highlighting their influence and enduring legacy in the world of rock ‘n’ roll.

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Born in Brooklyn and raised on Long Island, bandleader Vince Giordano began his odyssey into the world of music at the age of five. The discovery of a slew of 78 rpm records in his grandmother’s attic ignited the flame. He began music on the violin but switched to the tuba in the 7th grade and then added the string bass and bass saxophone.

The ambitious Giordano joined the musicians union at age 14 and started playing with Dixieland banjo bands around Long Island. He became interested in the music of Bix Beiderbecke and studied with Bill Challis, the legendary arranger for the Paul Whiteman and Jean Goldkette Orchestras.

Vince joined the 22-piece Navy Show Band after high school. He then toured Europe with Eddy Davis, played in New York with Tony Parenti and Max Kaminsky, and toured with Clyde McCoy.

In 1976, Vince Giordano & the Nighthawks (originally known as the New Orleans Nighthawks) was formed and performed at many New York venues.

He and the band have been both onscreen and in the studio for various television and film work. They were nominated for a 2012 Grammy for Best Compilation for Visual Media for their work on the Boardwalk Empire Volume 1—Music from the HBO Original Series CD.