New York Said
258 episodes - English - Latest episode: 3 months ago - ★★★★★ - 80 ratingsNew York - Hosted by Amon Focus, the New York Said podcast features in-depth conversations with people you don't often hear from, to hear things that aren't often shared (said), spotlighting life in New York.
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Episodes
Grit, Grind, and Carats: The Peter Feliciano Story
April 17, 2024 16:57 - 1 hour - 97.7 MBPeter Feliciano, a man whose journey from Far Rockaway to the upper echelons of the fine jewelry industry embodies the spirit of New York City. From his early days navigating racial tensions and forging alliances on the streets to his transformative experience in the United States Marine Corps, Feliciano's story is one of grit, adaptability, and unwavering determination. Through his immersion in the world of precious stones and his relentless pursuit of success, Feliciano has built a thrivin...
Crafting Crowns: René Mantilla and the Art of Luxury Chapeaux
April 17, 2024 15:23 - 1 hour - 91.7 MBRené Mantilla, a New York-based luxury hat designer whose handcrafted fedoras have become a symbol of the city's effortless style and a favorite among celebrities. From his humble beginnings in Ecuador to his breakthrough moment at Nordstrom, Mantilla's story is one of unwavering faith, tireless dedication to his craft, and an unshakeable belief in the power of dreams. The article delves into Mantilla's creative process, his commitment to using the finest materials, and his mission to empowe...
Geometry, Color, and Innovation: The Captivating World of Jan Kaláb's Art
April 12, 2024 19:53 - 30 minutes - 43.3 MBJan Kaláb, born in 1978 in Czechoslovakia, has emerged as one of the most prominent contemporary artists of his generation. From his roots in Prague's graffiti scene to his current international success, Kaláb's artistic journey is a testament to his unrelenting passion, innovation, and ability to push boundaries. This article explores Kaláb's early years as a graffiti pioneer, his transformative visit to New York, and his evolution into a globally recognized artist known for his unique geom...
Kimberli Gant, Art Curator for the Brooklyn Museum, Unlocks "Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys"
February 24, 2024 20:55 - 27 minutes - 38 MBDuring a recent conversation, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kimberli Gant, an art curator at the Brooklyn Museum. She is known for her innovative approach to curating contemporary art exhibitions. Gant's style involves going beyond just the aesthetics of art and focuses on how it reflects our time's culture, history, and human connections. Her curatorial selections in this latest exhibition, "Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys," showcase her ability to ...
"I Can Do Better Than Nothing" - Inside the Mind of Bill Adler
February 08, 2024 22:23 - 44 minutes - 61.9 MBIn this episode, Amon Focus engages with Bill Adler, a pivotal figure in hip hop, to explore his transition from a music journalist to Def Jam's first publicist and his significant contributions to preserving hip hop culture. Adler's insights reveal a deep passion for the genre, highlighting his work on a seminal photo book and donations to institutions, ensuring hip hop's legacy for future generations. Read The Article: Inside the Mind of Bill Adler
2023 Year End Wrap Up
December 29, 2023 15:56 - 1 hour - 120 MBIn this episode of the "New York Said" podcast, Amon Focus and Juan Sanchez reflect on their eventful year of 2023. They delve into personal milestones such as Juan's experiences of fatherhood and coping with loss, and Amon's professional achievements, including his speech at the School of Visual Arts. The episode also highlights the significance of storytelling and cultural narratives in their work, featuring discussions with guests like Erica Ford and Destiny Mata, adding diverse perspecti...
Saladin Q Allah: Merging Ancestral Wisdom with Modern Outreach
December 12, 2023 07:18 - 41 minutes - 58.1 MBSaladin Q Allah is a prominent figure in cultural education and community engagement. Learn about his work at the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center and his contributions to preserving and enlightening communities about their rich ancestral legacies. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/saladin-q-allah-merging-ancestral-wisdom-with-modern-outreach
Art and Illumination: An Intimate Discussion with Bruce Munro on Field of Light at Freedom Plaza
November 20, 2023 19:41 - 29 minutes - 40.8 MBJoin us as we delve into a candid conversation with Bruce Munro about his artwork 'Field of Light at Freedom Plaza.' In this episode, we explore the inspiration behind this breathtaking installation and gain insight into Bruce's creative process and aspirations. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/art-and-illumination-an-intimate-discussion-with-bruce-munro-on-field-of-light-at-freedom-plaza
TTK Unveiled: Behind the Scenes of "See What I'm Seeing" - A Solo Exhibition
September 13, 2023 20:47 - 29 minutes - 41.1 MBNew York-based fine artist TTK debuts with "See What I'm Seeing," his most intimate and revealing collection yet. "These paintings were inspired by people escaping from something and stepping out of what's familiar, even when it's uncomfortable," reveals TTK. Building on the success of his "See What I'm Sayin'" art book series, this exhibition promises to be more than just a visual delight; it offers a journey into the artist's mind. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/ttk-unveiled-b...
Unlocking Dan Lam’s Artistic Journey: A Deep Dive into Innovation and Creativity
August 01, 2023 19:45 - 43 minutes - 60 MBIn a realm where tradition often looms large, breaking the mold is no mean feat. Yet, one artist has continually refused to be bound by convention, making waves with her unorthodox approaches and captivating work. Dan Lam, a Dallas-based artist, has captured the world’s imagination with her stunningly vibrant and tactile sculptures that blur the lines between the fantastical and the tangible, the alien and the organic. Read the Full Article: Unlocking Dan Lam’s Artistic Journey: A Deep Div...
Behind the Lens: Destiny Mata's Candid View of New York
July 03, 2023 02:10 - 35 minutes - 49 MBIn a city known for its relentless pace of change, one woman’s lens is capturing the timeless essence of life in New York City. Destiny Mata, the impassioned photographer whose work delves into the heart of her neighborhood, is creating a profound photographic archive, one frame at a time Learn More about Destiny Mata
Greatness is a Process: Erica Ford's Journey to Empowerment and Peace
June 05, 2023 19:12 - 40 minutes - 56.3 MBExplore the inspiring journey of Erica Ford, a community leader dedicated to transforming lives and promoting peace. Discover how she founded Life Camp Inc. and embarked on a mission to empower at-risk youth. Join Erica Ford and Paper Planes in raising awareness during Gun Violence Awareness Month with their limited edition Crown. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/greatness-is-a-process-erica-fords-journey-to-empowerment-and-peace
Nobody Was Here: Rico James and Preserving the Legacy of TMNK
June 01, 2023 00:28 - 49 minutes - 69.2 MBAmon Focus hosts a conversation with filmmaker Rico James, who provides an intimate look into the life and legacy of the late influential street artist, TMNK. Known worldwide for his transformative impact on urban art, TMNK or 'The Me Nobody Knows,' remained an enigma until his passing in 2016. Rico’s recollections offer not only a tribute to TMNK's life and work, but also a testament to the indomitable spirit and passion of an artist who continues to inspire years after his departure. As th...
The Journey of Renda Writer: A Testament to the Power of Words and Art
April 18, 2023 19:25 - 22 minutes - 31.9 MBIn this episode, we delve into the life and work of Renda Writer, a poet, muralist, and hip-hop enthusiast who has dedicated his life to uniting communities through art and culture. Discover his philosophy on personal growth, his love for language, and the importance of connections in the world of arts. Don't miss the chance to learn more about Renda's World Peace Mural Tour and Grateful for Hip-Hop projects. Be inspired by Renda's remarkable journey and witness the transformative power of w...
Art and Play Collide: Cj Hendry's Plaid Experience
April 13, 2023 14:54 - 1 hour - 101 MBIn an interview with Amon Focus, conceptual artist Cj Hendry discussed her upcoming tenth solo show, Plaid. The exhibition features hyper-realistic pencil drawings and a unique heuristic format, including the immersive Plaidground installation, a 5,000 sqft adult playground. Hendry's work aims to evoke nostalgia and connect visitors with their inner child while exploring the intersection of literal and conceptual art. Plaid challenges the boundaries of hyperrealism and public art, showcasing...
EP 230: Joffy Top Tiger
March 23, 2023 05:29 - 1 hour - 105 MBDiscover the story of Joffy Top Tiger, a rising powerhouse in the hip hop world. Learn about his origin story, collaborations, and innovative projects, and find out why he's becoming one of the most sought-after artists in the industry. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/joffy-top-tiger-overcoming-adversity-and-building-a-legacy-through-music
Comfort Crusade: The Evolution Continues
March 19, 2023 18:14 - 39 minutes - 55.3 MBIt's another exciting day on the podcast as we welcome back Comfort Crusade. With his signature blend of chilled hip hop, lo-fi, and Rhodes-filled house music, Comfort Crusade's unique sound has gained recognition worldwide, captivating audiences with its ability to transport them to far-off musical destinations. Don't miss out on what he has in store for us today - it's no surprise why Comfort Crusade has become a favorite among our listeners. Show Notes: Comfort Crusade: The Evolution C...
Jahan Nostra Discusses the Making of His New EP "Violet Skies" and His Creative Process
March 10, 2023 22:05 - 1 hour - 99.5 MBIn his latest project, Violet Skies: Volume I, Jahan Nostra combines modern content and concepts with a vintage, raw hip-hop sound. The eclectic collection of production and featured artists create a well-rounded project with no wasted space. Nostra's slick lyricism and thought-provoking content are elevated by powerful sonic backdrops, taking listeners on a journey through sound and feeling. The respect Nostra has for hip-hop culture is evident in every record he's dropped, and Violet Skies...
Museum of the City of New York presents New York Now: Home – A New Photography Triennial
March 09, 2023 01:48 - 21 minutes - 29.9 MBHome. It’s where the heart is, where we feel safe and secure. And in New York City, home takes on a whole new meaning. The Museum of the City of New York is launching its new contemporary photography triennial, New York Now: Home, on March 10th. This inaugural exhibition explores the different ways in which we make homes in and around the five boroughs. Co-curated by Thea Quiray Tagle and Sean Corcoran, this event marks the beginning of the Museum’s centennial year programming. As the worl...
Breaking Barriers in Design: A Discussion with Paola Zamudio of npz studio+
February 16, 2023 20:38 - 43 minutes - 60.7 MBPaola Zamudio is an award-winning interior designer and creative director based in New York, known for her innovative and unique approach to design that seamlessly blends art, culture, and functionality. She is the founder of npz studio+ and has worked on a variety of projects ranging from commercial spaces to residential homes, with clients that include Bell Works, Somerset Development, and Quantum Investments. Paola is passionate about sustainability and the use of meaningful objects, plan...
2022 Year End Wrap Up
December 31, 2022 18:10 - 1 hour - 161 MBJuan and Amon are back to pontificate, philosophize and reminisce on the year 2022 Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/2022-year-end-wrap-up/
Walking to Stay Sain
December 01, 2022 05:57 - 1 hour - 154 MBOn a walk through Central Park, Stay Sain talks growing up in Philly, his experiences in West Africa and chess strategies. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/walking-to-stay-sain/
Shantell Martin Shares how she Fused her Signature Lines with HOEK's Transformable Furniture
October 20, 2022 03:50 - 16 minutes - 23.9 MBArtist Shantell Martin’s signature black and white lines have led her to exciting and very successful collaborations that highlight both her work and those of the brands she loves. In her newest collab - Shantell x HOEK - Shantell designed super fun pieces with her iconic pen, from coasters to coffee tables to wall art, to spread throughout any eco-conscious home. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/shantell-martin-shares-how-she-fused-her-signature-lines-with-hoeks-transformable-fur...
Vikki Tobak Unlocks Her New Book, Ice Cold: A Hip-Hop Jewelry History
September 26, 2022 21:19 - 46 minutes - 64.6 MBVikki Tobak explores the intricate dialogue between culture, adornment, and identity in her latest book, Ice Cold: A Hip-Hop Jewelry History. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/vikki-tobak-ice-cold-interview/
TTK is Educating and Inspiring the Next Generation of Black Creatives
August 26, 2022 01:11 - 1 hour - 117 MBTTK is educating and inspiring the next generation of black creatives with his new documentary film, JUST LIKE ME. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/ttk-harris-is-educating-and-inspiring-the-next-generation-of-black-creatives
2022 Whitney Biennial talk with Art Critic, Ricky Amadour
April 26, 2022 22:45 - 26 minutes - 37 MBListen to a short but in-depth conversation with Artist and Art Critic, Ricky Amadour about the 2022 Whitney Biennial. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/2022-whitney-biennial-talk-with-art-critic-ricky-amadour
Larry and Sonia Wright Perform a Masterpiece in the Union Square Subway Station
April 19, 2022 23:49 - 8 minutes - 12.3 MBLarry and Sonia Wright Perform a Masterpiece in the Union Square Subway Station Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/larry-and-sonia-wright-perform-a-masterpiece-in-the-union-square-subway-station
Director Jay Rosenblatt on his Oscar-Nominated Short Documentary, ‘When We Were Bullies’
March 11, 2022 06:44 - 25 minutes - 36.1 MBDirector Jay Rosenblatt shares some insight on creating his Oscar-Nominated Short Documentary, ‘When We Were Bullies’ with Amon Focus. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/director-jay-rosenblatt-on-his-oscar-nominated-short-documentary-when-we-were-bullies
Born with HIV: Savannah's Story
February 28, 2022 03:39 - 57 minutes - 80 MBFrom being a Make A Wish kid to growing up to have twins of her own, Savannah doesn't look at being born HIV+ as a curse bestowed upon her. In this talk Savannah shares her journey and what she has learned along the way. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/born-with-hiv-savannahs-story/
How On Air Fest is Advancing the Culture of Audio with Scott Newman
February 21, 2022 04:26 - 19 minutes - 27.4 MBAn in-depth conversation about the importance of On Air Fest advancing the culture of audio with founder, Scott Newman. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/how-on-air-fest-is-advancing-the-culture-of-audio-with-scott-newman/
Fireworks in the Hood
January 28, 2022 19:53 - 26 minutes - 37.4 MBIt's been a minute. Happy New Year. It's snowing outside. It's cold in New York. So you know what that means, it's time to release another new episode of "Sounds of the City". This summer I went back to my old neighborhood in Southside Jamaica, Queens to record the fireworks. I recorded about four hours of the festivities that night, and then edited it down into a nice 25. It's not boom, boom, boom consecutively throughout the whole episode but it is s an orchestration. If you really wan...
2021 Year End Wrap Up
December 30, 2021 22:14 - 2 hours - 176 MBTime is clearly riding on a bullet train because Juan and I are here yet again to sum up another beautiful year of ups and down. Can you believe we've been doing these wrap up episodes for 5 years now? Crazy. Thank you for rocking with us and supporting NEW YORK SAID. Happy New Year! Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/2021-year-end-wrap-up/
Step Inside the Mind of Suckybat
December 26, 2021 19:30 - 58 minutes - 81.5 MBOn a super brick New York night in December, I took an anonymous zoom call from the Suckybat. For about an hour we talked about learning things the hard way, sobriety, graffiti, feeding demons and making bad decisions. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/step-inside-the-mind-of-suckybat/
Julie Grahame talks aCurator, Photography Consulting and the Yousuf Karsh Archive
November 17, 2021 21:44 - 1 hour - 90.8 MBIn this episode Julie Grahame talks curating photography, editing, legacy, provenance, audience engagement and photo agency life. Show Notes https://www.newyorksaid.com/julie-grahame-talks-acurator-photography-consulting-and-the-yousuf-karsh-archive
Des Rocs: A Real Good Person In A Real Bad Place
October 25, 2021 17:24 - 34 minutes - 48.2 MBJoin us as we take a wonderful walk through the sound and mind of Des Rocs. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/des-rocs-a-real-good-person-in-a-real-bad-place/
Wild Style, The Origin Story with Filmmaker Charlie Ahearn
September 17, 2021 18:57 - 1 hour - 103 MBOn a blisteringly hot summer day in Tribeca, Amon Focus talks to director Charlie Ahearn about the Origin Story of his film Wild Style. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/wild-style-the-origin-story-with-filmmaker-charlie-ahearn
Inside the Mind of DJ Dirty Harry
July 17, 2021 00:41 - 1 hour - 113 MBDJ Dirty Harry talks music production, creating his early mixtapes, working with Alicia Keys and winning a Grammy. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/inside-the-mind-of-dj-dirty-harry/
Janette Beckman talks Witnessing History and Capturing it for Future Generations
July 02, 2021 06:45 - 1 hour - 116 MBOn a hot summer day in Manhattan, I had a chance to kick it with Janette Beckman for a few hours. In this episode we talk about thinking on your feet, the skeleton key of politeness, giving back and the wonderful stories behind Janette's documentary portrait photography. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/janette-beckman-talks-witnessing-history-and-capturing-it-for-future-generations
New York, New Music with Sean Corcoran
June 15, 2021 04:55 - 9 minutes - 13.8 MBMuseum of the City of New York, the city’s storyteller for almost 100 years, today shared details for New York, New Music: 1980-1986, a new exhibition that revisits the music scene of early 1980s New York City. The exhibition examines this transformative era through the lens of emerging pivotal music genres and the influence they played on New York’s broader cultural landscape. Opening on June 11, in advance of MTV’s 40th anniversary in August, the exhibition highlights diverse musical artis...
Cannabis Exponential with Dylan "Doc" DeBusk
June 14, 2021 21:20 - 1 hour - 93.5 MBThis week's guest on the show is Dylan "Doc" DeBusk. This episode is called Cannabis Exponential because if you ask Doc the right questions, he's going to give you a full spectrum tour on the subject. That is why it was a no brainer to have him as a guest on the show. In this conversation about cannabis, Doc talks extractions, stigmas, genetics, hybrid vigor, hype-strains, crude hash, as well as the work ethic of producers, processors and retail stores. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksai...
The Art of Capturing Moments with T. Eric Monroe
June 04, 2021 16:47 - 1 hour - 132 MBRecorded from The Trops Gallery down in the Lower East Side, Eric and Amon vibe out on beautiful sunny day in New York City. In this episode they talk about Capturing a Moment vs Influencing a Moment, The Immortalization of Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Being a Spectator to the Smallest Details, Giving Back in an Impactful Way, Owning All of Your Intellectual Property and Letting Go. Eric also shares a ton of great stories of when he used to capture Nas, Biggie, Tupac, RZA, ODB and other entertaine...
Abrons Arts Center: Past and Present with Craig T. Peterson
April 23, 2021 05:27 - 35 minutes - 49.4 MBIn this episode we converse with Craig T. Peterson about the multidisciplinary arts, performances, exhibitions, residencies, classes/workshops and school-based programs at the Abrons Arts Center. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/abrons-arts-center-past-and-present-with-craig-t-peterson
Selina Miles: Hustlin' to Martha
March 18, 2021 22:59 - 50 minutes - 69.4 MBJoin us this week as Amon chops it up with Selina Miles about her debut film “Martha: A Picture Story” which documents the notable contributions of veteran graffiti and street art photographer Martha Cooper. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/selina-miles-hustlin-to-martha/
The DJ Doggtime Origin Story
March 08, 2021 21:51 - 22 minutes - 35.3 MBAs we return to the Galaxy of Queens, we converse with another staple of the community: Eric Brown, but if you grew up listening to mixtapes in the late 80s and 90s, you probably know him as DJ Doggtime, one of the pioneers of the Blend Tape. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/the-dj-doggtime-origin-story/
2020 Year End Wrap Up
December 28, 2020 21:35 - 1 hour - 146 MBIt's that time again, Juan and Amon talk about their Top 3's of 2020 while doing their best to skip over the turn of the decade foolishness. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/2020-year-end-wrap-up/
Episode Two Hundred: The New York Said EP
December 22, 2020 22:10 - 29 minutes - 49.6 MBThis particular episode is extremely special because it's by Vinny Alfano, a session guitarist, composer and mix engineer where he created an audible experience entitled, the New York Said EP. I asked him if it was cool to publish the EP on NYS and he said, "Hell yeah!” And here we are. Enjoy, Amon Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/episode-number-200-the-new-york-said-ep
Exploring the Mindscapes of Ryan McGinness
December 16, 2020 03:37 - 43 minutes - 64.1 MBRyan McGinness talks showing your work, exploiting the analog glitches, pure geometry and the burden of communication. https://www.newyorksaid.com/ Notes from the Conversation Prolific | Approaching Fifty | Creating an Immersive Environment | Miles McEnery Gallery | Make a Statement | One Grand Singular Statement | Street Signs | One Grand Painting | The Black Holes | Narrative Elements | A System Started to Emerge | Systematic Approach to the Work | Why 72? | Site Specific |Easily Rec...
Sophie Bramly talks Luck, Intuition and Following your Instincts
December 09, 2020 20:58 - 1 hour - 94.5 MBCovered in this Conversation Rarely Nervous | YO! MTV Raps Europe | That Ice - T Episode | Never a Script | Morris Day | Started Rather Well in Paris | Got Bored and Moved to New York | Too Much is Never Enough | Taking Pictures Slowly but Surely | Fab 5 Freddy | New York City Breakers | That Club in Union Square | DJs, Rappers and Graffiti Artists | Hip Hop Story Book from '84 | RUN DMC | Profile Records | A Singles Market | Beastie Boys - Cookie Pus | Meeting Rick Rubin at NYU | The Roxy...
The Obligated Selflessness of Viceroy Troy
November 30, 2020 22:20 - 53 minutes - 74.5 MBViceroy Troy talks about the only two reasons to have a serious relationship, bringing fun to the party, putting skin in the game and more. The Cliff Notes https://www.newyorksaid.com/the-obligated-selflessness-of-viceroy-troy
Robert "ROB-O" McCallum shares his Journey to Roots and Rooftops
November 19, 2020 06:49 - 41 minutes - 57.2 MBRobert "ROB-O" McCallum is the founder of the causal menswear brand, Roots and Rooftops. In this episode we talk about pinnacle moments, comfort, structure, barnstorming, controlling our narrative as well as his experiences designing for Nike and Adidas. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/robert-rob-o-mccallum-shares-his-journey-to-roots-and-rooftops