Danny Simmons
Noted artist, writer and philanthropist Danny Simmons has been instrumental in helping artists build their careers. In 1995, he and his brothers, Russell Simmons and Rev. Run, raised $250,000 to create the nonprofit Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation. He then opened two art galleries, Corridor in Brooklyn and Rush Arts Gallery in Chelsea where he just celebrated 15 years. He’s best known for helping to create HBO’s popular series Def Poetry Jam and was recently honored by The Harlem Arts Alliance for arts achievement.
Simmons spends his time creating opportunities for artists and educating others about art. Currently working on arts competition Curate NYC, he’s also launching a new poetry book later this month. Deep in Your Best Reflection: Poems in 160 Characters is an innovative collection designed to be texted to a lover.
REFLECTIONS: Hometown: Jamaica, Queens, NY * First job: working for the city as a contracts manager at a job placement agency.* Advice he would have given himself 10 years ago: Spend more time doing your own art and develop your own career as an artist. But I do believe I am blessed because I help others. * What keeps him up at night: Worrying about paying bills like everybody else or thinking about somebody I was in love with that I broke up with. * Words to live by: Do what you want to do and do what you feel is right. Follow your heart.
DIVERSIONS: Currently reading: Comic books, the latest Fantastic Four. I have a huge comic book collection including All-Negro Comics, the first comic published by a Black man in 1947. Next I’m planning to pick up Nelson George’s book, The Plot against Hip Hop. * Last fun purchase: A dope sports jacket with a black velvet collar from Paul Smith I’m wearing to the Audelco Awards.
PLAYING FAVORITES: Hotel: I don’t have a favorite hotel but I do like The Delano Hotel in South Beach Miami. * Getaway: Negril, Jamaica, I go there three times a year and stay at the Negril Treehouse owned by husband and wife. It’s just a cool vibe. I also love Bahia.* Entree: Dungeness crab in garlic sauce from Wo Hop in Chinatown. * Drink: Ginger ale and cranberry juice. * Guilty pleasure: I’ve been drug-free for over 20 years and I don’t have many vices but I do enjoy hanging out at Voodoo Lounge on Nostrand Avenue in Brooklyn.
