PHOTOS BY NANCY J. PARISI
BUFFALO’S MUSIC SCENE IS ENERGIZED AND INSPIRED AFTER ITS PANDEMIC HIATUS
By Michael Farrell
T
he music of Buffalo supplies the rhythm of the city. It moves the region through our seasons, tells our distinctive stories and connects generations through power chords and percussion. It’s not only a vital part of what we are; it’s who we are, comprised of the Buffalo-bred-artists that amplify it all. So, what happens to these artists when a worldwide pandemic hits the pause button on their performances inside places like Nietzsche’s, Sportsmen’s Tavern and Buffalo Iron Works, and eliminates an essential element of life for locals? We checked in with a few of the city’s favorite musicians to learn how they managed to persevere through challenging times, and what it feels like to be back playing live music Buffalo’s been waiting to hear.
Visit Buffalo Niagara: How would you describe the Buffalo music scene to someone playing the city for the first time? Sonny Baker: This town has some serious heavy hitters, with top-notch players and songwriters. Buffalo doesn’t really get its due when it comes to recognizing the talent here; and for the most part, every[musician] is pretty supportive of each other. VBN: What does being a Buffalo musician mean to you? Maria Aurigema: I am Buffalo. I live in Buffalo, I spend winter in Buffalo, and I am super proud of the unbelievable amount of talent that is in Buffalo and has come out of Buffalo. I’ll always be
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