Your Guide to Live Music in Upstate New York

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Artists & Bands

Rick James

Funk pioneer. "Super Freak," "Give It to Me Baby," "Mary Jane." Born and raised on Buffalo's East Side. One of the most influential funk artists of all time.
Upstate Connection

Born and raised on Buffalo's East Side. Started singing on local street corners before becoming a funk pioneer.

Sqwerve performing at Lark Hall

Key Achievements

Grammy: Best R&B Song (1990)
"Super Freak"
"Give It to Me Baby"
"Mary Jane"
20M+ records sold
Hall of Fame

Quick Facts

CategoryArtists & Bands
Upstate ConnectionBuffalo
Born AsJames Ambrose Johnson Jr.
Years1948 – 2004
Active1965-2004
GenreR&B