Welcome to The New York City Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming New York Knicks home game

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of Duke Ellington

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“It’s not the mistake that matters, it’s how you interpret the lesson.”

—Michelle C. Ustaszeski

New York City Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which New York City landmark is known as the ""Crossroads of the World""?

A) Rockefeller Center

B) Times Square

C) Central Park

D) Grand Central Terminal

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The New York City district known as the center of the American theater industry is D) Broadway.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

Kazakhstan Showcases Investment Potential at First Finance Forum in New York.(link)

Chopin waltz unearthed in New York after almost 200 years.(link)

🏦Finance

Alphabet Revenue Jumps 15% to $88.3 Billion.(link)

🏒Sports

Yankees, Giants Losses Trigger Tragic Night in NYC Sports History.(link)

Yankees Fan Ejected After Trying to Pry Fly Ball Out of Mookie Betts's Glove.(link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏀 New York Knicks vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Madison Square Garden New York, NY
Friday November 08 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

🏀 Long Island Nets vs. Westchester Knicks
Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum Uniondale, NY
Sunday November 10 | 3:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Marvelous 3
Irving Plaza Powered By Verizon 5G New York, NY
Saturday November 09 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎶 School of Rock New York: Mid Season Show
Cutting Room 44 East 32nd Street New York,
Sunday November 10 | 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM | (more info)

Family

♟️ Chess for kids 
MyBiblioteka 731 Washington Avenue Brooklyn, NY
Thursday, November 7 · 3:30 - 4:30pm EST | (more info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “New York City with buildings that change shape and color.” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

New York City History

1863: The New York City Draft Riots.

The New York City Draft Riots of 1863 stand as one of the most tumultuous and violent periods in the city's history, reflecting deep social divisions and the strain of the ongoing Civil War. Sparked by the implementation of the first federal draft lottery in July 1863, the riots were fueled by widespread resentment among working-class New Yorkers, particularly Irish immigrants, against conscription and the option for wealthier men to buy their way out of service. Over four days, the city was engulfed in chaos, with rioters targeting draft offices, wealthy homes, and African American communities.

The violence highlighted stark inequalities and racial tensions, resulting in the death and injury of hundreds, including many African Americans who were lynched or attacked by mobs. The riots also caused significant property damage, leading to a harsh response from law enforcement and federal troops, eventually quelling the unrest. The draft riots exposed the deep fissures within New York society, underscoring the complexities of loyalty, class, and race during a critical period in American history.

In the aftermath, the city took measures to address some of the grievances that had fueled the riots, though the deep-seated issues of inequality and racial tension persisted. The events of 1863 left a lasting imprint on New York City, serving as a somber reminder of the city's socio-political challenges during the Civil War era and the need for reconciliation and reform in its wake.

Famous New Yorkers In History

Duke Ellington (1899–1974): Composer, pianist, and leader of a jazz orchestra.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1899-1919)

Edward Kennedy ""Duke"" Ellington was born in 1899 in Washington, D.C., into a family that valued music and education. Ellington's musical journey began at a young age, initially with piano lessons that he did not immediately embrace. However, his passion for music soon became apparent, and by his teenage years, he was composing original pieces and playing professional gigs. His early forays into music set the foundation for what would become a legendary career in jazz.

Move to New York City and the Cotton Club (1920-1930)

In the early 1920s, Ellington moved to New York City, a decision that would catapult him to international fame. It was in the vibrant cultural and musical landscape of Harlem that Ellington found his true calling. In 1927, he became the bandleader at the Cotton Club, one of Harlem's most prestigious venues. This residency provided Ellington with a platform to develop and showcase his compositions, earning him critical acclaim and a growing fan base.

Innovation in Jazz and Prolific Composing (1931-1945)

Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Ellington distinguished himself as a pioneer of jazz music, pushing the boundaries of the genre with his innovative compositions and arrangements. His orchestra became known for its unique sound, characterized by intricate harmonies, complex rhythms, and a blend of individual talents. Ellington's prolific output during this period, including classics like ""Mood Indigo,"" ""Sophisticated Lady,"" and ""It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing),"" solidified his status as one of the greatest composers in jazz history.

International Fame and Touring (1946-1960)

The post-war years saw Ellington's fame extend beyond the United States. He toured extensively in Europe, Asia, and South America, spreading the influence of jazz worldwide and establishing himself as a global musical ambassador. Ellington's ability to transcend cultural and racial barriers with his music was a testament to his genius and the universal appeal of jazz.

Connection to New York City (Throughout Career)

New York City, particularly Harlem, remained at the heart of Ellington's musical universe. The city's dynamic energy, diversity, and cultural vibrancy were constant sources of inspiration for Ellington. His contributions to the New York jazz scene, from his legendary performances at the Cotton Club to his collaborations with other Harlem Renaissance artists, left an indelible mark on the city's musical heritage.

Later Years and Musical Legacy (1961-1974)

In his later years, Ellington continued to compose, perform, and innovate, refusing to be confined by the traditional boundaries of jazz. Works like his ""Sacred Concerts"" series showcased his versatility and commitment to exploring new musical territories. Ellington's death in 1974 marked the end of an era, but his influence on music and culture endures.

Death and Enduring Influence (1974)

Duke Ellington passed away in 1974, leaving behind a legacy that has continued to inspire musicians and music lovers around the world. His innovative approach to jazz, characterized by a blend of complex orchestration, improvisation, and collaboration, has made him a towering figure in the history of American music.

Key Achievements:

• Led one of the most influential jazz orchestras in music history, with a career spanning over fifty years.

• Composed thousands of pieces, including jazz standards that have become integral to the genre's repertoire.

• Pioneered new forms of jazz, influencing countless musicians and composers across various music genres.

• Became a symbol of the Harlem Renaissance, contributing to New York City's cultural and musical identity.

Duke Ellington's journey from a young pianist in Washington, D.C., to a central figure of the New York City jazz scene and an internationally celebrated composer, embodies the spirit of innovation and creativity that defines jazz. Through his groundbreaking work, Ellington not only transformed the landscape of American music but also left a lasting impact on New York City's cultural heritage. His legacy, marked by an unwavering dedication to exploring the depths of musical expression, continues to resonate, cementing his place as one of the most important figures in the history of music.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Yannick Lyons