2024 was a year of ups and downs for the local music scene, and a lot of those ups and downs were chronicled here in the “Upstate Beat” column.
First and foremost, one of the most exciting events of the year seemed like it was never going to happen. After months of construction and zoning delays, the new Radio Room location at 28 Liberty Lane in Greenville, which was supposed to open in January, finally opened its doors in July. My conversation with the owners revealed both the relief and exhaustion they were feeling.
One of the bands that played on the new Radio Room stage this year was Sunhouse, one of the most promising new groups on our local scene. The band released a stunning debut album, “No One’s Home,” and played a packed release show with fans already singing along to the new songs. A band to watch, for sure.
Some big names came through town, playing at the Peace Center, The Well and, interestingly enough, Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, a venue with an ambitious plan to remake the image of the decades-old venue.
I spoke with country superstars Lonestar about their Spartanburg show, and I also logged conversations with Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon ahead of a performance at CCNB Amphitheatre in Simpsonville. I also caught up with The Marshall Tucker Band and Grand Funk Railroad, before shows here in Greenville.
And one of our biggest moments of the year came at the end, when I spoke with John Legend about his Christmas show in the main concert hall at the Peace Center.
And there was so much more in 2024.
Bill Medley of the Righteous Brothers graced the pages of the Greenville Journal to talk about the legendary group’s retirement tour. Local acoustic guitar wizard Jacob Johnson recorded a fresh new take on The Allman Brothers Band’s classic instrumental “Jessica” that featured Willie Nelson’s harmonica player, Mickey Raphael.
And while we did lose The Velo Fellow this year — one of 2024’s biggest “down” moments — we also got a new intimate venue at Pecknel Music on Pleasantburg Drive called The Cool Room, a small spot that’s perfect for acoustic and small-band shows.
I got to spotlight the Upstate’s only combination guitar shop and beauty salon. And as a nice example of local music scene synergy, I spoke with Greenville’s Cash Machine band about a live album the band recorded onstage during Fall for Greenville.
The coming year will no doubt present challenges, triumphs and more great music. I’m looking forward to another year of covering it.
