Way back in 1975 in Syracuse, New York, young guitarist Chris Tso—who now lives in Paso Robles—founded The New York Flyers with keyboardist Phil Dalessandro. Later they added Earl Hamilton (drums) and Mike Marzullo (bass). That band was recently inducted in the Syracuse Area Music Awards Hall of Fame with a ceremony Thursday, March 5, followed by a concert on Friday, March 6.
“It was quite an honor being given a New York State Proclamation by the New York assemblyman and concert the next day,” Tso said.
WSYR NewsChannel 9’s morning show Bridge Street covered the event and concert at Syracuse’s Palace Theater. The SAMMYS, as they’re called, recognize individuals who’ve achieved top-level career success and made a lasting impact on the Central New York music scene.
During their career, The New York Flyers performed with Black Sabbath, Marshall Tucker, Loverboy, Eddie Money, Pat Benatar, Leslie West, Edgar Winter, and others. They toured 15 U.S. states and Canada, performing more than 2,000 shows at more than 300 venues.
Today, Tso plays with the Cali Coast Duo, the dance-rock band PUSH, and the house band at The Pour House. Δ
This article appears in April 2-9, 2026.