Today we’d like to introduce you to Brian Heckstall

Hi Brian, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

Do you believe in divine intervention? When I was 14 I fell in love with Fall Out Boy after watching them perform “Dance Dance” on One Tree Hill. This lead me into begging my mother for my first guitar and looking for a teacher. Upon casually strolling through my Crown Heights neighborhood one day, I bumped into the legendary Yohimbe Sampson of Game Rebellion & Meridian Lights. He taught me about Jimi Hendrix, Bad Brains, etc. and brought me to my first Afro-Punk. My first time being in a mosh-pit/seeing black rockstars.

I didn’t know it then but this would be my introduction artistry.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

There’s no smooth roads in New York lol nah but the biggest challenge I’ve faced is mastering my routine. When you want to live a healthy, well balanced life in all aspects, you have to get used to waking up early and going to sleep on time. That’s just a few of the sacrifices I’m learning to make. I’m really beginning to fall in love with the process though.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

I’m a Hip-Hop artist & self-care enthusiast most known for my unique voice, cheerful disposition and electric performances. What I’m most proud of right now is that my first EP with Jamaican born producer, DJ & singer KHAJE “Clearing Space.” is near completion. What sets me apart from others artists in my field is my desire to create an atmosphere around my work that’s inviting. I want people to hear/see Pook Hustle and feel welcomed into my world, whatever it looks like at the time.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?

What I like most about NYC is the culture. There’s so much history here that it’s easy to find joy or inspiration meeting everyday people. What I like least is the pace of the city. There’s so much to do but barely any time to enjoy it since rent is so high. You’ll probably be working all the time. It often feels like reaching for a diamond that’s just outside of your grasp.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/pookhustle
• Youtube: https://www.YouTube.com/pookhustle