".... he’s been a regular playing the national anthem before games at Madison Square Garden."Sorry to be a downer, BUT here we have an outstanding, talented, man that came to this country on a visa lottery, PLAYS THE NATIONAL ANTHEM AT MSG and yet is in a demographic that is being hunted like animals as this country turns full-bore into 1930's Germany. We are all Renee Good and Alex Pretti and we'd best get off our asses!
I know this comment is not appropriate to this fun Substack...I apologize...
Thank you Anne! This story about the trumpet player lifted my spirits which have been shattered by recent events in the news. What a wonderful young man whose immigration story has such a beautiful expressed purpose. May he be safe& protected in this turbulent atmosphere.
Thanks Salllie! I think it's so important, given everything in the news, to remember there are wonderful people and good things happening all around us.
I always try to carry small cash in my pocket, particularly when we are on travels. I think any musician who gets out there and plays, deserves a tip, even if they are not the best. They are trying. This man is amazing. His story is so uplifting, and the fact he wants to take everything full circle back to his home makes me joyful. As always, Anne, thanks for another homerun of a story.
In Harvard Square the other week, I texted a friend: "Is it ethical to only tip buskers who can actually sing?" But by the time he replied I'd already given to the woman who was kind of off key.
Another wonderful New Yorker with heart and passion. It’s so uplifting to read how he thinks and his selfless mission to bring joy. Thanks for this interview. On a lighter note…I think that bag might hold 3-d printed figurines. I’ve never understood that. Holding my breath until the mystery is solved.
Another brilliant read. Happy sigh. Stay warm dear Anne. And over here in Australia, I’ll endeavour to stay cool! Summer has hit with a vengeance down under.
(Which reminds me of the Segbefia family moving from Africa’s heat to NYC’s extremes. They clearly adapted. I hope he gets back to Africa and opens his school.)
"I was hustling through Grand Central on my way home from the dentist when I heard a trumpet blowing a haunting rendition of Schubert’s “Ave Maria.”
Wow that is a beautiful scene to contemplate! I would have thought I died and got lucky because the Pearly Gates were wide open to saints and sinners alike, that day! Pass Go and collect $200!!
It's interesting, JRB. It's a very slow and simple melody and he told me it's also one of the most difficult tunes to get right in his repertoire, BECAUSE it is so simple.
What a cool profile on a cool guy! I almost always give to buskers when I see them. But I'm also the guy who loves waiting for trains to pass at crossings because they're like little art shows with all the graffiti. Gotta find the joy where you can nowadays.
I'm also DYING to know what's in that ai package. I'll bet it's something stupid and 3D printed.
A.I. to the rescue: "This product is a fascinating example of what happens when a classic piece of world literature meets modern "generative AI" in a low-cost manufacturing pipeline.
The "Classic of Mountains and Rivers" (Shanhaijing) is an ancient Chinese text dating back to the 4th century BC. It is a legendary compilation of mythic geography and beasts—essentially an encyclopedia of monsters and strange lands.
However, the specific item your friend found at the Gorilla 99 Cent Plus in Park Slope is almost certainly a modern, AI-generated "knock-off" product, likely a puzzle or a building block set. Here is the breakdown of why the cover looks so surreal:"
Great profile! Reminded me of that "experiment" when (world-famous classical violinist) Joshua Bell donned a T-shirt and baseball cap and played his Stradivarius in the DC subway for 45 minutes, earning 30 bucks. I wonder how much more he would have gotten if he had worn a tuxedo?
Yes I thought about the Joshua Bell myself and was trying to recall the exact situation, Rob. I just found the video and he looks to be wearing jeans. So there you go!
Oh, I can also report that there was more than enough arugula and extra-firm tofu at the Stop & Shop in Oakwood, Staten Island, this past Friday. And, FWIW, I heard rumors that onions sold out quickly because of a viral TikTok "onion boil" recipe, though, again, the Oakwood Stop & Shop had plenty.
Thanks for sharing this here. What an inspiring man! I think I have to tell my concert organizer friend about Mr. Segbefia! What a wonderful story! My guess as to the content of the mystery package is gummy bears! Because why not?! I can’t get enough of Swedish fish myself!
A.I. solves the problem: This product is a fascinating example of what happens when a classic piece of world literature meets modern "generative AI" in a low-cost manufacturing pipeline.
The "Classic of Mountains and Rivers" (Shanhaijing) is an ancient Chinese text dating back to the 4th century BC. It is a legendary compilation of mythic geography and beasts—essentially an encyclopedia of monsters and strange lands.
However, the specific item your friend found at the Gorilla 99 Cent Plus in Park Slope is almost certainly a modern, AI-generated "knock-off" product, likely a puzzle or a building block set. Here is the breakdown of why the cover looks so surreal:"
Another must for the 1st Cafe Anne Bedside Companion this coming October (a great seasonal launch date) full of feel good stories and AK anecdotes. Have 8 months to make it happen. This 81 year old English pensioner will put £50 in the crowd funding pot in return for a signed copy. I still have my draft. I read it from time to time and it always brings a smile to my face. No pressure. Just sharing a dream. . .
Remember Anne you have a great archive of original stories and images that you can edit/rework. I know it will be hard work, but with your skills it is possible I am sure. I am presently giving my paperbagstories printed library a makeover. As you said earlier today it is about being famous in NYC. And I am sure you sell NYC to outsiders like me better than anyone else. I still love The (Ukrainian) Window Box King best by the way.🐰
Just completely wowed by such an amazing being! Thank you Cafe Anne!
He wowed me too, Alexis!
".... he’s been a regular playing the national anthem before games at Madison Square Garden."Sorry to be a downer, BUT here we have an outstanding, talented, man that came to this country on a visa lottery, PLAYS THE NATIONAL ANTHEM AT MSG and yet is in a demographic that is being hunted like animals as this country turns full-bore into 1930's Germany. We are all Renee Good and Alex Pretti and we'd best get off our asses!
I know this comment is not appropriate to this fun Substack...I apologize...
Creo que siempre es apropiado defender la vida, aunque sea el más divertido Substack.
Bien dicho, Danixa. Es mi espíritu sindicalista; he luchado por la justicia durante toda mi vida adulta y sigo luchando.
Thank you Anne! This story about the trumpet player lifted my spirits which have been shattered by recent events in the news. What a wonderful young man whose immigration story has such a beautiful expressed purpose. May he be safe& protected in this turbulent atmosphere.
Thanks Salllie! I think it's so important, given everything in the news, to remember there are wonderful people and good things happening all around us.
I always try to carry small cash in my pocket, particularly when we are on travels. I think any musician who gets out there and plays, deserves a tip, even if they are not the best. They are trying. This man is amazing. His story is so uplifting, and the fact he wants to take everything full circle back to his home makes me joyful. As always, Anne, thanks for another homerun of a story.
I'm with you, Lynn. I almost always tip. Because the music always adds something to day. Unless its the pan flute. I hate the fookin pan flute!
In Harvard Square the other week, I texted a friend: "Is it ethical to only tip buskers who can actually sing?" But by the time he replied I'd already given to the woman who was kind of off key.
Another wonderful New Yorker with heart and passion. It’s so uplifting to read how he thinks and his selfless mission to bring joy. Thanks for this interview. On a lighter note…I think that bag might hold 3-d printed figurines. I’ve never understood that. Holding my breath until the mystery is solved.
Agree. The pictures on the package are the characters from the brainrot mania that hit TikTok last year.
Glad you enjoyed the profile Toni. And I am afraid your prediction is probably the most likely. I am hoping for something much weirder!
Just the feel-good story I need during these sad, difficult times. Thank you!
Oh golly that makes me happy to hear. Thank you Georgia!
Another brilliant read. Happy sigh. Stay warm dear Anne. And over here in Australia, I’ll endeavour to stay cool! Summer has hit with a vengeance down under.
(Which reminds me of the Segbefia family moving from Africa’s heat to NYC’s extremes. They clearly adapted. I hope he gets back to Africa and opens his school.)
Terrific story. Thanks.
Fortunately, he's got a MAJOR puffer coat he wears around the city, Beth. Maybe the puffiest coat I've ever seen!
Wonderful! 👏👏Music transcends and bridges aisles. Glad Mr. Segbefia is working enough gigs so that Grand Central is a choice.
May we all have such wonderful options, CK.
"I was hustling through Grand Central on my way home from the dentist when I heard a trumpet blowing a haunting rendition of Schubert’s “Ave Maria.”
Wow that is a beautiful scene to contemplate! I would have thought I died and got lucky because the Pearly Gates were wide open to saints and sinners alike, that day! Pass Go and collect $200!!
It's interesting, JRB. It's a very slow and simple melody and he told me it's also one of the most difficult tunes to get right in his repertoire, BECAUSE it is so simple.
Such a beautifully written story on Mr. Segbefia. His philosophy of life and giving back touched my heart. Thank you Anne!
Thank you Dale! I'm glad you enjoyed!
What a cool profile on a cool guy! I almost always give to buskers when I see them. But I'm also the guy who loves waiting for trains to pass at crossings because they're like little art shows with all the graffiti. Gotta find the joy where you can nowadays.
I'm also DYING to know what's in that ai package. I'll bet it's something stupid and 3D printed.
A.I. to the rescue: "This product is a fascinating example of what happens when a classic piece of world literature meets modern "generative AI" in a low-cost manufacturing pipeline.
The "Classic of Mountains and Rivers" (Shanhaijing) is an ancient Chinese text dating back to the 4th century BC. It is a legendary compilation of mythic geography and beasts—essentially an encyclopedia of monsters and strange lands.
However, the specific item your friend found at the Gorilla 99 Cent Plus in Park Slope is almost certainly a modern, AI-generated "knock-off" product, likely a puzzle or a building block set. Here is the breakdown of why the cover looks so surreal:"
Amazing JRB
Haha, okay, one vote for "something stupid and 3D printed," registered.
Am so happy you share my curiosity. You are my kind of reader, Justin!
Great profile! Reminded me of that "experiment" when (world-famous classical violinist) Joshua Bell donned a T-shirt and baseball cap and played his Stradivarius in the DC subway for 45 minutes, earning 30 bucks. I wonder how much more he would have gotten if he had worn a tuxedo?
Yes I thought about the Joshua Bell myself and was trying to recall the exact situation, Rob. I just found the video and he looks to be wearing jeans. So there you go!
Oh, I can also report that there was more than enough arugula and extra-firm tofu at the Stop & Shop in Oakwood, Staten Island, this past Friday. And, FWIW, I heard rumors that onions sold out quickly because of a viral TikTok "onion boil" recipe, though, again, the Oakwood Stop & Shop had plenty.
Reading this brought me so much joy, Anne!
And that makes ME very happy Ingrid. Thank you!
Your trumpet player story made my day and made me smile!
Thank you Randy! That means a lot.
Lovely profile. So happy to read about Mr Segbefia! Also, incredible Eric Adams quote 😂
Thanks Yoko! I have a feeling Mr. Adams will continue to entertain us for years to come.
How long until he becomes famous outside of NYC?
I'd be satisfied with NYC because that's all that matters, David. But that's just me!
Now!!!!
Thanks for sharing this here. What an inspiring man! I think I have to tell my concert organizer friend about Mr. Segbefia! What a wonderful story! My guess as to the content of the mystery package is gummy bears! Because why not?! I can’t get enough of Swedish fish myself!
Anita, I love that you're suggesting it contains something so ordinary. And it would be very funny if you are right!
A.I. solves the problem: This product is a fascinating example of what happens when a classic piece of world literature meets modern "generative AI" in a low-cost manufacturing pipeline.
The "Classic of Mountains and Rivers" (Shanhaijing) is an ancient Chinese text dating back to the 4th century BC. It is a legendary compilation of mythic geography and beasts—essentially an encyclopedia of monsters and strange lands.
However, the specific item your friend found at the Gorilla 99 Cent Plus in Park Slope is almost certainly a modern, AI-generated "knock-off" product, likely a puzzle or a building block set. Here is the breakdown of why the cover looks so surreal:"
Another must for the 1st Cafe Anne Bedside Companion this coming October (a great seasonal launch date) full of feel good stories and AK anecdotes. Have 8 months to make it happen. This 81 year old English pensioner will put £50 in the crowd funding pot in return for a signed copy. I still have my draft. I read it from time to time and it always brings a smile to my face. No pressure. Just sharing a dream. . .
Ah, the book now has an official launch date. That is very exciting, O L O!
Remember Anne you have a great archive of original stories and images that you can edit/rework. I know it will be hard work, but with your skills it is possible I am sure. I am presently giving my paperbagstories printed library a makeover. As you said earlier today it is about being famous in NYC. And I am sure you sell NYC to outsiders like me better than anyone else. I still love The (Ukrainian) Window Box King best by the way.🐰