New York City. The city that never sleeps. The financial heartbeat of a nation. An irreplaceable force in the American music industry. Yeah, we’re not talking about that place. We’re referring to the other part of New York State, the oft-ignored and ridiculed one. It turns out that among the unfortunate few who call that place home, there’s also a touch of talent. As proof, here are the 10 best songs from Upstate New York. Keep in mind that best in this case means most popular, and from Upstate New York might be a loose interpretation.
“Super Freak” by Rick James (1981)
James, born and raised in Buffalo, might have had a few issues throughout his life, but the Motown star nailed it with this jam, sampled several years later by MC Hammer in “U Can’t Touch This.”
“Name” by Goo Goo Dolls (1995)
About a decade and a half later, another Buffalo outfit hit it big with this track.
“Because the Night” by 10,000 Maniacs (1993)
In the southwest corner of the state lies the anonymous town of Jamestown, birthplace of the not-so-anonymous actress Lucille Ball and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. Another local product, Natalie Merchant, garnered praise after her band perfected this cover of a Patti Smith classic.
“Good Lovin'” by The Rascals (1966)
An hour east of Buffalo lies the musical gold mine that is Rochester, whose adopted native son Gene Cornish was part of the band that produced this hit.
“Juke Box Hero” by Foreigner (1981)
Also from the Flour City is Lou Gramm, whose vocals helped Foreigner pump out numerous chart toppers like this one.
“Feels So Good” by Chuck Mangione (1977)
Thanks to the Eastman School of Music, Rochester is known for its highbrow tastes, encapsulated in Mangione’s instrumental magnum opus.
“Say It Ain’t So” by Weezer (1995)
Weezer frontman Rivers Cuomo spent part of his childhood at the Rochester Zen Center, later landing in Los Angeles, where his group introduced itself to the world with its debut album, featuring this iconic 90s anthem.
“Stereo Hearts” by Gym Class Heroes featuring Adam Levine (2011)
Further east lies the Finger Lakes region, recognized for its striking scenery and surprisingly competent wineries. And as displayed here by Gym Class Heroes—the pride and joy of Geneva, New York—the artistry goes beyond the wine glass.
“Renegades” by X Ambassadors (2015)
On the next lake over sits Ithaca, home to Cornell University and a humble act that landed in the limelight with this international sensation.
“Sample in a Jar” by Phish (1994)
And finally, a jam from the band with a cult following, the one whose drummer, Jon Fishman, grew up in Syracuse.
Of course, as governing talent has been unable to match musical talent, none of these songs from Upstate New York have been sufficient to prevent a mass outmigration.
