Meet Your Neighbor: Richie

The Lives and Journeys Among Us

I discovered a man sitting on a staircase outdoors with punk rock music blasting from his iPhone and I thought, “Oh how interesting!” I walked past this same man on the move, who was thoroughly absorbed in his music with his headphones on. Periodically, I would see this man with his headset, or hear him coming when his phone was blasting classic tunes, and I thought, “He must have an interesting story to tell.” Below chronicles his story as we sat talking together at Nino’s Pizzeria in Bay Ridge.

Richie, a former CBS and Sony employee turned life observer, reflected on his upbringing, career in the music industry, and the philosophy that guides his life. Growing up in Bensonhurst, New York, during a time when crime was not as prevalent, Richie’s childhood was marked by a sense of safety and the joy of music. His life unfolded amid significant cultural and technological shifts, especially in the music industry. This piece captures his journey—from an unassuming kid in Brooklyn to interacting with rock legends.

Richie describes his early life in Brooklyn with fondness, emphasizing the security of his neighborhood and the simple pleasures of childhood. “It was nice in those things; you didn’t have to worry about, like, crime so much,” he reflects, providing a stark contrast to the modern-day challenges many face. Such observations evoke a longing for simpler times and prompt reflections on the societal changes over the decades.

His academic experience, likened to the norm of the early 1970s, reveals a lack of emphasis on higher education. “In those days, you didn’t really need a college degree to get a job,” he states, revealing how the workforce landscape has evolved. The interview also touches on Richie’s career trajectory. He started at CBS almost by chance, venturing into a world that would enable him to intersect with iconic figures, including the likes of Paul McCartney and David Bowie.

Richie’s narrative is not solely about achievement, however. It speaks to the transient nature of relationships and careers within the music industry. He recalls his years at CBS and Sony, sharing, “I was making 73 dollars a week… but that was 1973.” Through his tenure until 2005, Richie witnessed the evolution of music consumption—from vinyl to CDs and eventually to digital formats, illustrating the industry’s transformative nature. Yet his layoff during a merger symbolizes a broader trend of job instability in industries grappling with technology’s rapid advancement.

Throughout the interview, an undeniable reverence for music emerges. Richie cites his passion for music as a healing force, stating, “Music heals the soul.” His love for live performances and artists is evident as he reminisces about iconic concert experiences and celebrity encounters, particularly at places like CBGB. Music serves as the backbone of Richie’s life—his constant companion guiding him through challenges and enriching his experiences.

The conversation shifts to a more personal note when Richie reflects on friendships, stating, “Friends come and go,” which illustrates a pragmatic acceptance of relationships over time. Despite the transient nature of connections, he values the moments shared. He describes enjoying concerts alone, explaining, “My musical tastes are different than most, and I like to get the tickets fast, so I usually go alone.” This choice highlights his ability to derive joy from his own company without needing external validation, revealing a profound understanding of self-sufficiency and personal fulfillment.

Richie’s insights culminate in a broader philosophy about life and purpose. He asserts, “If I had no music, I would be very… disappointed,” hinting at the integral role of passions in shaping one’s identity and experience. The emphasis on music as a spiritual experience speaks to a connection that transcends generations—a language that resonates on both personal and collective levels.

The interview closes with Richie paying homage to influential bands that shaped the music scene, such as the New York Dolls, whose artistic bravery left a lasting mark. This reflection serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of influence within the arts, where past pioneers inspire current and future generations.

Richie’s story resonates deeply amid today’s rapidly changing cultural landscape, especially as music continues to serve as a refuge for many. In a world where technology often isolates individuals, Richie brings attention back to the communal and restorative aspects of music. His life serves as a testament to the power of art in navigating life’s complexities, urging a reflection on how vital it remains in our daily existence. As we continue to embrace new technologies, the essence of music, as Richie highlights, remains an irreplaceable element of the human experience—one that fosters connection, healing, and joy.