Arts & Culture

651 ARTS Names 3 New Board Members in Brooklyn

651 ARTS is strengthening its leadership with the addition of three professionals whose careers span communications, media, arts, corporate community relations and nonprofit governance. Tashion Macon, Cori Murray and Toni Yuille Williams bring experience connected to prominent brands and institutions across the cultural and civic landscape, with particularly strong ties to Brooklyn and Black media. The appointments expand the expertise available to the Brooklyn-based performing arts organization as it plans for its next phase of growth and community engagement. The new board members also deepen 651 ARTS’ connections across entertainment, journalism, philanthropy and New York City’s cultural sector.

Calvin Klein Spring 2027 Runway Show Hits NYC

Calvin Klein Collection unveiled its Spring 2027 collection in New York City under Creative Director Veronica Leoni, bringing the fashion house’s evolving interpretation of American minimalism to Terminal Warehouse. The runway presentation focused on streamlined silhouettes, refined tailoring and familiar wardrobe staples reworked through proportion, fabric and construction. The historic Manhattan venue incorporated artwork by Walter De Maria, creating an industrial setting for a show that blended fashion, art and music. The event also attracted a high-profile audience spanning entertainment, fashion, dance and digital culture, including Rosalía, Teyana Taylor, Solange, Emily Ratajkowski, Pamela Anderson, Katie Holmes, Misty Copeland and St. Vincent. The presentation positions Calvin Klein’s Spring 2027 collection firmly within New York’s global fashion conversation.

Bronx School of Hip Hop Gets $350K From Gibson

The Bronx School of Hip Hop is beginning its first academic year with a major technology investment designed to connect traditional education with the culture and creative industries that originated in the borough. Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson allocated $350,000 for media and classroom equipment, including computers, tablets and cameras. The new public high school at 1600 Webster Avenue launches with ninth grade and is expected to expand to grades 9–12, ultimately serving about 500 students. Its academic model incorporates hip hop across subjects while exposing students to areas such as audio engineering, media production and other career-oriented skills.

Kota the Friend Releases Just Happy To Be Here

Independent artist Kota the Friend has released his new album, Just Happy To Be Here, a 10-track project featuring Loony and Lisa Chiodo with production from Eeryskies, Powers Pleasant, ORIGAMI, Aja Grant, MAX HE, Bobby Wooten, and Pat Finnerty. The album arrives as part of New Music Friday while Kota continues his nationwide Just Happy To Be Here Tour.

Kota the Friend Announces Album Out July 30

Brooklyn's Kota the Friend, known globally for his independent success, will release his new album on July 30 while continuing his nationwide Just Happy To Be Here Tour. The upcoming project has also inspired him to showcase more of his musical background on stage, where fans are seeing him perform acoustic guitar alongside a live group of musicians for the first time. The release marks another chapter in Kota's independently built career and ongoing connection with audiences across the country.

Brooklyn Bridge Park Reveals 2026 Event Season

Brooklyn Bridge Park has announced its 2026 season lineup featuring months of free public programming along the Brooklyn waterfront, including outdoor movies, live music, dance parties, fitness classes, kayaking, educational activities, cultural festivals, and family-friendly events running from May through October. The annual programming continues to position the park as one of New York City’s premier outdoor destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year with a mix of recreation, arts, culture, and community experiences.

Fusion East Hosts First Tuesdays Live Music

Fusion East, in collaboration with Brooklyn Buzz, continues its popular First Tuesdays Live Music Series on Tuesday, May 5, featuring Ronnie Roc’s Afrazz Trio. Known across New York City for their smooth blend of jazz and Caribbean rhythms, the trio brings high-energy live music to East New York with no cover charge. Just steps from the Gateway Center Mall, Fusion East offers great food, happy hour from 4–7 PM, and a vibrant atmosphere—guests are encouraged to arrive early for the best seats.

Kota the Friend Drops 'Local Art Dealer Vol.1'

Brooklyn independent artist Kota the Friend releases his new 10-track album Local Art Dealer, Vol. 1, a genre-blending project that unites music, fashion, and visual art while spotlighting local creatives and independence.

Fusion East Announces Live Music Lineup in East New York

Fusion East Caribbean & Soul Restaurant in East New York, Brooklyn has announced a its 2026 Live R&B and Jazz Music Series featuring full bands and singers known across New York City’s live music scene. The monthly performances will bring live R&B, jazz, funk, reggae, and Latin jazz to the neighborhood, giving residents a place to enjoy professional live music alongside Caribbean and soul cuisine without leaving East Brooklyn.