Sammy Rae & The Friends @ Terminal 5

Sammy Rae & The Friends brought their infectious energy to Terminal 5 on November 9th,
2024, for the second night of their NYC shows, and it was a celebration of music, joy, and
community from start to finish.

Patti Gonia

The evening kicked off with an electric performance by Patti Gonia, a drag queen with a
vibrant presence. Patti’s set was full of fun, humor, and talent, setting a lively tone for the night
ahead.

Sammy Rae & The Friends

When Sammy Rae & The Friends took the stage, the crowd was immediately enveloped in
their warmth and enthusiasm. The band’s chemistry was palpable, and their performance
radiated wholesome energy. Sammy Rae’s stage presence was magnetic—both powerful and
down-to-earth—engaging with the audience in a way that made it feel like a gathering of
friends rather than just a concert.

The setlist was a perfect blend of upbeat anthems and more reflective moments. Highlights
included the energetic “We Made It,” the soulful “Jackie Onassis,” and the crowd-pleasing
“Good Life Medley.” The band also gave an unexpected and fun twist to Toto’s “Hold the
Line” during the encore, before closing with “Coming Home Song,” which left everyone
buzzing with joy.

One of the most memorable moments was when Sammy Rae acknowledged the band’s first
NYC show at Bowery Electric in 2018, asking the audience if anyone had been there. This
personal touch made the night feel intimate, even in the large venue.

The production was colorful and dynamic, with vibrant lighting that complemented the mood of
each song. The sound was crisp, allowing the band’s musicianship and Sammy Rae’s powerful
vocals to shine.

Sammy Rae & The Friends are ahead of their time, tackling important topics like mental health
and LGBTQ+ issues through their music while creating a fun, inclusive environment. If you have
the chance to see them live, don’t miss it—they’ll leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.