Category: Local News

  • Benny the Butcher’s Money & Power Tour: A Grimy Hip-Hop Takeover Hits the Road Fall 2025

    Benny the Butcher’s Money & Power Tour: A Grimy Hip-Hop Takeover Hits the Road Fall 2025

    Get ready for an explosive night of raw lyricism and unrelenting energy! Buffalo’s own Benny the Butcher is set to storm stages across the East Coast and beyond with his Money & Power Tour, kicking off this week. Don’t miss your chance to witness Benny the Butcher live as he commands the stage with unmatched hustle and heart.

    Presented by BSF, it’s hitting mid-sized venues perfect for that sweaty, up-close vibe. Joining Benny are BSF’s OT The Real and Griselda producer Daringer. 

    Fresh off his Def Jam album Everybody Can’t Go and the May 2025 surprise EP Excelsior Benny’s delivering a live sermon on street wisdom and unyielding hustle.

    Tickets on sale now—grab yours before they’re gone!

  • Target Electronics to Bring Back Midnight Releases with Exclusive Taylor Swift Physical Album at Midnight. Find out how to get your copy inside Monroe County – NY

    Target Electronics to Bring Back Midnight Releases with Exclusive Taylor Swift Physical Album at Midnight. Find out how to get your copy inside Monroe County – NY

    Taylor Swift’s 12th album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” drops on Friday, Oct. 3, around the world.

    Still have a CD player? How about a first listen of Taylor Swift new album with a physical copy of the project. 

    According to a press release from Target Corporate, select stores will open their doors at midnight on October 3 to give Swifties the chance to be some of the first to hold the physical copies of the album. And in Monroe County, the Henrietta Target is that store!

    Officials said fans will have the chance to shop four exclusive products: a pressing of “The Life of a Showgirl” on a limited edition vinyl, as well as three exclusive CDs with posters included.

    Now for the logistics: Physical or digital tickets will be distributed in the electronics section of the the Target stores Thursday starting at 10 p.m. Officials said that will reserve guests’ product for purchase. Once a guest has their ticket, they can continue shopping in the store and return to the designated queuing location at 11:45 p.m. to make their purchase at midnight.

    Due to high demand, there will be a purchase limit of four per item, per guest.

    Henrietta Target is located at 2325 Marketplace Dr, Rochester, NY 14623

    via. News 8 wroc

  • Hamilton Takes Rochester by Storm: A Revolutionary Fall Awaits West Herr Auditorium Theatre

    Hamilton Takes Rochester by Storm: A Revolutionary Fall Awaits West Herr Auditorium Theatre

    In the crisp embrace of a Finger Lakes autumn, where the leaves whisper secrets of rebellion and the Genesee River hums with untamed energy, Rochester is about to become the stage for history’s boldest remix. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton: An American Musical—the Tony, Grammy, and Pulitzer Prize-winning juggernaut that fused hip-hop fire with Founding Fathers’ fury—returns triumphantly to the West Herr Auditorium Theatre from November 18 to 30, 2025. This isn’t just a tour stop; it’s a homecoming for a show that redefined Broadway, now electrifying the heart of upstate New York with its pulse-pounding score and razor-sharp storytelling.

    Miranda’s genius—equal parts Notorious B.I.G. swagger and Sondheim precision—transforms the Revolutionary War into a rhythm that gets under your skin, challenging you to rap along to the Constitution while questioning who gets to write the narrative of a nation.

    As the Angelica Company (the tour’s powerhouse ensemble) takes the stage, expect sold-out nights where local history buffs mingle with first-time theatergoers, all rising to their feet for that iconic “The Room Where It Happens.” Shows evening curtains at 7:00 p.m. and matinees at 1 p.m. on select days—prime for a weekend escape or a midweek revolution.

    Snag yours now via Ticketmaster or the official RBTL site, starting at around $78 (though premium seats command a Founding Father’s fortune). Whether you’re a “Helpless” romantic or a “Non-Stop” history hound, this is your shot. Don’t throw away your ticket—Rochester’s revolution starts November 18. Who lives, who dies, who tells your story? In the Flower City, it’ll be you.

  • Chaka Khan to Light Up Rochester’s Kodak Center with Performance

    Chaka Khan to Light Up Rochester’s Kodak Center with Performance

    UPDATE: Tomorrow Chaka Chan Show Cancelled with Postponed-Date To Be Announced Near Future.

    Gearing up for a night of funk, soul, and timeless hits the legendary Chaka Khan takes the stage at the Kodak Center on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at 8:00 PM. Known as the “Queen of Funk,” the 10-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter promises an electrifying evening filled with her signature powerhouse vocals and vibrant energy, marking a highlight of her 2025 tour.

    Chaka Khan, born Yvette Marie Stevens in Chicago, has been a trailblazer in music for over five decades. From her early days fronting the funk band Rufus with hits like “Tell Me Something Good” to her solo career-defining anthems such as “I’m Every Woman” and “Ain’t Nobody,” Khan’s influence on R&B, funk, and soul is undeniable. Her distinctive voice and dynamic stage presence have inspired generations of artists and continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

    The Kodak Center concert is a special homecoming for local guitarist Jon Dretto, who has been touring with Khan as her lead guitarist. Selected from thousands of submissions, the Webster native’s inclusion adds a layer of local pride to the event. Dretto’s chord riffs will complement Khan’s performance, making this a must-see show for Rochester music fans.

    Fans can expect a setlist packed with classics, likely including “Through the Fire,” “I Feel for You,” and “Sweet Thing,” as she is celebrating 50 years of music & will be taking a pause from “The Queens: 4 Legends, 1 Stage Tour,” giving fans a full dose of Khan’s unparalleled artistry.

    Tickets for October 1 are available through Ticketmaster, with prices varying based on seating.

    In for a treat as Chaka Khan brings funk-soul legacy to the Kodak Center whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to her music, this concert promises to be a celebration of an icon whose voice and spirit continue to shine brightly. Don’t miss the chance to experience the Queen of Funk live in the Flower City!

  • Pentatonix to Deliver Festive A Cappella Magic with ‘Christmas in the City’ Tour Stop on December 4

    Pentatonix to Deliver Festive A Cappella Magic with ‘Christmas in the City’ Tour Stop on December 4

    As the first snowflakes begin to dust the streets of Rochester, New York, music fans have something extra special to look forward to this holiday season. On December 4, 2025, the Grammy-winning a cappella sensations Pentatonix will light up the Blue Cross Arena with their “Christmas in the City” Tour, promising an evening of festive cheer, stunning vocals, and unforgettable harmonies. 

    Kicking off at 7:00 PM, this stop is part of the group’s highly anticipated 2025 holiday trek, designed to immerse audiences in the spirit of the season amid the urban glow of cities across North America.

    Pentatonix, the powerhouse vocal group that rose to fame after winning NBC’s The Sing-Off in 2011, has become synonymous with modern holiday music. With over 10 million albums sold worldwide and billions of streams, they’ve redefined a cappella through innovative arrangements and viral YouTube covers. Their Christmas catalog is particularly beloved, featuring platinum-selling albums like That’s Christmas to Me (2014) and A Pentatonix Christmas (2016), which include showstoppers such as “Hallelujah,” “Mary, Did You Know?,” and “The Sound of Silence” with holiday twists. The group—consisting of Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kirstin Maldonado, Kevin Olusola, and Matt Sallee—has earned three Grammy Awards for their vocal prowess and continues to push boundaries with their beatboxing, intricate layering, and high-energy stage presence.

    The “Christmas in the City” Tour builds on Pentatonix’s tradition of annual yuletide spectacles, transforming arenas into winter wonderlands. Fans can expect a setlist packed with seasonal classics reimagined through their signature style. Past tours have featured dazzling light shows, interactive elements, and even surprise guest appearances, all while highlighting the group’s vocal acrobatics—no instruments needed (though they occasionally incorporate subtle enhancements for added flair). This year’s iteration promises to capture the magic of Christmas in an urban setting, blending nostalgia with contemporary vibes to appeal to families, longtime fans, and newcomers alike.

    For Rochester residents, this performance couldn’t come at a better time. The Blue Cross Arena, located in the heart of downtown at One War Memorial Square, is no stranger to big-name acts, but Pentatonix’s visit adds a layer of holiday sparkle to the city’s vibrant arts scene. With Rochester’s own rich musical history—from the Eastman School of Music to local festivals—this show feels like a perfect fit, offering a communal celebration amid the chill of early December. Attendees might even catch a glimpse of the group’s playful banter and behind-the-scenes stories, making it more than just a concert—it’s a feel-good event to kick off the festivities.

    Tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster and the Pentatonix official website (ptxofficial.com), with prices starting around $45 (including fees) for general admission, scaling up to $700 for premium seats and VIP packages. These VIP options include meet-and-greets, exclusive merch, and early entry, so snag them quick—as each seat holds a different perk. Whether you’re a die-hard “PTX” fan or just looking for a way to get into the holiday groove, this Rochester stop is set to be a highlight of the season. Don’t miss your chance to experience the joy of Pentatonix live—it’s the ultimate gift to yourself this Christmas!

  • Harlem Globetrotters Set to Dazzle Rochester with Centennial Spectacle

    Harlem Globetrotters Set to Dazzle Rochester with Centennial Spectacle

    ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Get ready for a slam-dunk celebration of basketball wizardry and family entertainment as the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters bring their 100 Year Tour to the Blue Cross Arena on February 7, 2026. 

    This milestone event marks a century of the Globetrotters’ iconic blend of athletic prowess, comedy, and crowd-pleasing tricks, promising an unforgettable afternoon for fans of all ages in the Flower City.

    Founded in 1926, the Harlem Globetrotters have evolved from a barnstorming team into global ambassadors of goodwill, entertaining millions with their gravity-defying dunks, impossible ball-handling skills, and hilarious on-court antics. Over the decades, they’ve played in more than 120 countries, rubbing elbows with popes, presidents, and pop stars while maintaining an unbeatable record against their perennial foes. 

    Globetrotters deliver their signature high-energy show, complete with jaw-dropping stunts like behind-the-back passes, no-look shots, and interactive fan moments that pull audience members into the action. 

    Whether it’s a gravity-defying alley-oop or a comedic skit, the performance is designed to thrill laughs and joy, making it a perfect outing for families, sports enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a break from the ordinary.

    Special add-ons elevate the experience: Fans can snag a Celebrity Court Pass for up-close access during pregame warm-ups, including one-on-one interactions with the players. VIP packages include autographs, group photos, and exclusive merchandise like a newly designed 100 Year Harlem Globetrotters gift pack. 

    This tour isn’t just a game—it’s a piece of history in motion, blending nostalgia with modern flair.

    Tickets are available through Ticketmaster and the official Harlem Globetrotters website. Prices vary, but early birds can secure spots for what promises to be one of the hottest family events of the winter. Don’t miss your chance to witness 100 years of Globetrotter magic right here in Rochester—grab your tickets and prepare for a courtside adventure!

    Presales run from 9/15 to 9/21; Presale code: VENUE don’t miss this memorable night!

  • Rascal Flatts to Ignite Buffalo with 2026 Life Is a Highway Tour Finale

    Rascal Flatts to Ignite Buffalo with 2026 Life Is a Highway Tour Finale

    Buffalo Country music fans in Western New York are gearing up for an unforgettable night as Rascal Flatts brings their “Life Is a Highway Tour” to the KeyBank Center on February 28, 2026, marking the grand finale of their 21-city trek. The iconic trio—Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus, and Joe Don Rooney—will cap off their much-anticipated 2026 tour with a high-energy performance, joined by special guests Lauren Alaina and Chris Lane, promising a night of nostalgic hits and heartfelt harmonies.

    Following a sold-out 2025 tour celebrating their 25th anniversary, Rascal Flatts is back to “keep the party going,” as DeMarcus enthused, with a setlist packed with fan favorites like “What Hurts the Most,” “Bless the Broken Road,” and, of course, their anthemic “Life Is a Highway.” The tour, named after their 2006 hit and recent Life Is a Highway: Refueled Duets album, showcases the trio’s signature blend of soaring vocals and arena-ready energy, reimagined with collaborations from artists like Blake Shelton and Kelly Clarkson. 

    Fans in Buffalo can expect a nostalgic yet fresh performance, with Alaina and Lane adding their own chart-topping flair to the evening.

    The KeyBank Center show, set to kick off at 7:00 PM, is already generating buzz, with tickets starting at $39 on Ticketmaster and VIP packages offering premium seats, exclusive merchandise, and access to the Rascal Flatts VIP Lounge. After a five-year hiatus, the trio’s return has been met with overwhelming fan enthusiasm, and Buffalo’s passionate country music scene is ready to deliver a raucous sing-along to close out the tour.

    Don’t miss your chance to see Rascal Flatts light up Buffalo on February 28, 2026. Tickets are on sale now at RascalFlatts.com and VIPNation.com. With a limited run of shows, this is one highway you’ll want to ride to the very end.

  • JID’s “God Does Like Paradise Tour” North American Leg Preview

    JID’s “God Does Like Paradise Tour” North American Leg Preview

    Atlanta rapper JID, born Destin Choice Route, is set to ignite stages across North America with his “God Does Like Paradise Tour,” the North American leg of his expansive “God Does Like World Tours.” This blockbuster run, supporting his critically acclaimed fourth studio album God Does Like Ugly (released August 8, 2025, via Dreamville/Interscope), kicks off October 15, 2025, in Virginia Beach, VA, and wraps with a two-night finale at Brooklyn’s Paramount on December 15 and 16. With fellow Atlanta native Young Nudy as a special guest for most U.S. dates, alongside additional acts like Baby Kia, DC The Don, and Kai Ca$h, JID is poised to deliver a high-energy celebration of hip-hop that showcases his lyrical dexterity and electrifying stage presence. For fans in and around Rochester, NY, the tour offers several nearby shows to catch this rising star in action.

    JID’s Background: From East Atlanta to Global Stages

    Born on October 31, 1990, in East Atlanta, JID grew up immersed in his parents’ collection of classic funk and soul LPs, which shaped his eclectic musical palette. Influences like OutKast, Goodie Mob, Lil Wayne, and Wu-Tang Clan fueled his passion for hip-hop, while his fluent rapping style and intricate wordplay have earned him widespread critical acclaim. JID first gained recognition with independent projects like Route of Evil (2012), Para Tu (2013), and DiCaprio (2015). His big break came in 2017 when he signed with J. Cole’s Dreamville Records, releasing his debut album The Never Story, which featured the standout single “Never.” Subsequent projects, including DiCaprio 2 (2018) and The Forever Story (2022), solidified his reputation as a lyrical powerhouse. His 2021 single “Enemy” with Imagine Dragons, the theme for Netflix’s Arcane, became his highest-charting hit, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100.

    JID’s latest album, God Does Like Ugly, has been hailed as one of 2025’s strongest hip-hop releases, with critics praising its ambitious production and introspective storytelling. Featuring heavyweights like Clipse, Vince Staples, Ciara, and Westside Gunn, the album reflects JID’s evolution as an artist who carries “the weight of Atlanta’s past, present, and future” on his shoulders. The tour’s title, God Does Like Paradise, nods to the album’s themes of resilience and redemption, promising fans a live experience that’s both raw and reflective.

    Tour Highlights and Rochester, NY Proximity

    The North American leg of the “God Does Like Paradise Tour” spans 31 shows across major cities, with Young Nudy bringing his signature trap energy to all U.S. dates (except Canadian stops). The tour’s itinerary includes stops in Chicago, Seattle, Miami, and more, but for Rochester, NY, fans, three nearby shows stand out:

    •  October 22, 2025 – Toronto, ON @ REBEL: Just a three-hour drive from Rochester, this show at the 2,500-capacity REBEL nightclub offers an intimate setting to experience JID’s dynamic performance. Note that Young Nudy will not appear at this Canadian date, but JID’s solo set, likely featuring tracks like “WRK” and “Surround Sound,” will keep the energy high.

    •  October 24, 2025 – Montreal, QC @ MTELUS: A four-hour drive from Rochester, this stop at the 2,300-capacity MTELUS venue promises a vibrant atmosphere. Like the Toronto show, it’s a Young Nudy-free performance, but JID’s reputation as a “notorious live performer” ensures a memorable night.

    •  December 15-16, 2025 – Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Paramount: Approximately a five-and-a-half-hour drive from Rochester, these back-to-back shows mark the tour’s grand finale. The 2,700-capacity Brooklyn Paramount will host JID and Young Nudy, delivering a high-octane close to the North American leg.

    What to Expect from the Tour

    JID’s live shows are known for their raw, unfiltered energy, transforming venues into “high-octane, crowd-shaking celebrations.”. Additional acts like Baby Kia and DC The Don will bring fresh voices to the stage, amplifying the tour’s appeal. JID’s promise of a special Atlanta hometown show (date TBD) underscores his commitment to his roots, but for now, Rochester fans can plan road trips to Toronto, Montreal, or Brooklyn to catch him live.

    Tickets for North American shows are available through Ticketmaster.

    His journey from East Atlanta to global stages mirrors the hustle and heart of his music, making these shows a must-see for fans of lyrical precision and authentic storytelling. Whether you’re vibing to “151 Rum” or reflecting on the personal narratives of God Does Like Ugly, JID’s “God Does Like Paradise Tour” is set to be a defining moment in his career—and a thrilling experience for North America

    For more details and tickets, visit www.jidsv.com.

  • Joey Bada$$ Announces Dark Aura Tour w/ Rapsody & Ab-Soul, Bringing Lyrical Fire to North America

    Joey Bada$$ Announces Dark Aura Tour w/ Rapsody & Ab-Soul, Bringing Lyrical Fire to North America

    #UPDATE

    Joey Bada$$ has canceled his Dark Aura Tour

    In a sudden and disappointing turn, Joey Bada$$‘ highly anticipated “Dark Aura Tour,” has been reportedly cancelled.

    New York’s own Joey Bada$$ is set to ignite stages across North America with his Dark Aura Tour, a 25-date run kicking off October 16, 2025, in Boston, Massachusetts, and wrapping up November 21, 2025, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The tour, named after his latest single “Dark Aura,” features hip-hop heavyweights Ab-Soul and Rapsody as special guests, promising a night of introspective lyricism and high-energy performances. With his forthcoming album Lonely at the Top dropping August 29, 2025, Joey is poised to make 2025 a defining year. Fans near Rochester, New York, will have several opportunities to catch this powerhouse trio at nearby stops.

    Joey Bada$$: From Pro Era Prodigy to Hip-Hop Luminary

    Born Jo-Vaughn Virginie Scott, Joey Bada$$ emerged in 2012 with his debut mixtape 1999, a nod to East Coast rap’s golden era that showcased his lyrical skill at age 17. As a co-founder of the Pro Era collective, he blended raw storytelling with boom-bap beats. His albums B4.DA.$$ (2015) and 2000 (2022) cemented his status as a voice for conscious rap. Beyond music, Joey’s acting roles in Mr. Robot and Power Book III: Raising Kanan, along with his entrepreneurial and activist work, highlight his versatility. His upcoming album Lonely at the Top explores fame, isolation, and resilience, with singles like “Dark Aura” and “The Ruler’s Back” setting the tone. The Dark Aura Tour marks his first headlining run since 2022, joined by Ab-Soul’s cerebral rhymes and Rapsody’s poetic flow.

    Tour Highlights and Rochester-Area Shows

    The Dark Aura Tour hits major cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Brooklyn, but fans in Rochester, New York, can catch the show at several nearby venues. The closest stops include:

    •  October 20, 2025 – Toronto, ON @ REBEL (approximately 85 miles from Rochester, a 1.5-hour drive across the border). This show at the vibrant REBEL venue brings Joey, Ab-Soul, and Rapsody to Canada’s hip-hop scene, making it the most accessible option for Rochester fans.

    •  October 21, 2025 – Cleveland, OH @ House of Blues Cleveland (approximately 225 miles from Rochester, a 3.5-hour drive). The intimate House of Blues will amplify the trio’s lyrical intensity, perfect for a road trip.

    •  October 22, 2025 – Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore (approximately 300 miles from Rochester, a 4.5-hour drive). This stop at the historic Fillmore Detroit offers a high-energy night for fans up for a longer drive.

    The Toronto show is the closest and most convenient for Rochester fans, though a valid passport is required for Canada.

    What to Expect

    The Dark Aura Tour promises a showcase of hip-hop’s lyrical core. Joey will likely perform tracks from Lonely at the Top alongside classics from 1999 and 2000. Ab-Soul, fresh off his 2022 album Herbert, brings philosophical depth, while Rapsody, a Grammy-winning lyricist, delivers poetic flows from works like Eve. This trio’s commitment to substance over flash makes the tour unmissable for hip-hop purists.

    Ticket Information

    Tickets are live via www.joeybadass.com or platforms like Ticketmaster. Tickets are expected to sell out fast, so Rochester fans should act quickly, especially for Toronto and Cleveland.

    Why This Tour Matters

    The Dark Aura Tour follows Joey’s struggles with label delays at Columbia Records, which pushed Lonely at the Top from its original August 1 release. His defiance shines in “Dark Aura,” produced by Chuck Strangers, with lines like, “Independent mindset, we ain’t f**kin’ with the majors.” Paired with Ab-Soul and Rapsody, this tour celebrates hip-hop’s authenticity. Rochester fans, grab tickets early for a night of raw lyricism—whether in Toronto, Cleveland, or Detroit. Follow @joeybadass on Instagram and X for updates.

  • Amerks Score Two Goals In Seven Seconds, Notch First Home Win

    By OBK SPORTS

    The Rochester Americans have scored the first goal in each of their first five games this season and seven of eight dating back to the end of the 2023-24 campaign. (Photo: Micheline Veluvolu)

    ROCHESTER, N.Y — The Rochester Americans (Amerks) ignited their home crowd with a thrilling 6-1 victory over the Cleveland Monsters at The Blue Cross Arena on Wednesday night.

    Six different goal-scorers lead Rochester to decisive 6-1 win over Cleveland

    A pivotal moment in the game came when the Amerks scored two goals in a blistering seven-second span, leaving the Monsters reeling. This momentum-swinging sequence propelled the Amerks to their first home win of the season.

    With this decisive victory, the Amerks improve their record and build momentum for their next showdown.

    ROCHESTER AMERICANS UPCOMING SCHEDULE & PREVIOUS RESULTS (Record: 2-3)

    (10/24/24 Updated)

    Friday, October 11 // Home vs Belleville Senators (Loss 2-3)

    Saturday, October 12 // Away at Utica Comets (Win 1-4)

    Friday, October 18 // Home vs Toronto Marlies (Loss 2-4)

    Saturday, October 19 // Away at Toronto Marlies (Loss 3-2)

    Wednesday, October 23 // Home vs Cleveland Monsters (Win 6-1)

    Saturday, October 26 // Away at Cleveland Monsters 

    Friday, November 1 // Away at Utica Comets

    Saturday, November 2 // Away at Utica Comets

    Wednesday, November 6 // Away at Cleveland Monsters 

    Friday, November 8 // Home vs Hartford Wolfpack