When I finally admit to myself that I must displace these blues, remind myself of what I am, who I am; when I need to flush out some tears, I now know what to do. A congregation of the ecstatic human voice will move me deeply more quickly than an exaltation of larks if the voices are spontaneous and authentic. It took me a long time to discover that.
In every New York city church with music I've explored, I've found those qualities at churches in Harlem.
Sunday can be a big day for congregants - some will dress formally, becoming more outwardly beautiful. So, if you go, go as a participant, not a gawker. Dress nicely; no ball caps, no shorts, no flip-flops; put some money in the collection basket. Sometimes the collection basket passes two times; give twice. No cameras, no recording. Try to seize the moment as a feeling to memorize, not a document to hold.
Canaan Baptist Church of Christ (132 West 116th Street, (212) 866-0301).
First Corinthian Baptist Church (1912 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. At 115th Street (212) 864-5976).
The Mount Neboh Baptist Church (1883 Seventh Avenue, at 114th Street; (212) 866-7880) is home to the Mount Neboh Mass Choir, known for its renditions of gospel-music staples like "O Happy Day" and "At Calvary.”
Abyssinian Baptist Church (Uptown, W 138th St between Powell and Malcolm X Boulevards). One of America’s oldest, most famous, swamped with tour groups.
Authenticity - Amen.
Explore New York like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our New York guide.
Visit the newly restored Frick Collection, a Gilded Age treasure with masterpieces by Vermeer and Fragonard, housed in a historic Fifth Avenue mansion.
By
"Apthorp Cleaners" in NYC is different from the dozens of other neighborhood cleaners by its permanent but ever-changing window display of Barbie dolls...
By
Taco toppings include cheese (Cotijam, oaxaca and mozzarella), pineapple, jalapeños and pico de gallo. Norteñas & Cubanos sandwiches are not to be missed.
By
"Dinastia" is a great Cuban-Chinese restaurant in New York City. They definitely make soul food here. Consider the squid and rice: it's always good...
By
"Studio Museum in Harlem" in New York focuses on local, national and international artists of African descent and other work inspired by black culture...
By
Its bright neon sign is easy to spot. Stand Up NY feels like a proper theater as it has a street-level entrance and the programming is mad extensive,
By
This year's "NYC Pride March", World Pride, will be held in the city to commemorate the Stonewall Riot of 1969. Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime event!
By
A walk through Central Park in New York is probably your best way of appreciating the folliage change colors. I recommend walking along the allée of elms.
By
"Patisserie des Ambassades" in New York has extensive opening hours and prepares dishes & desserts for every time of day. It's refreshingly old-fashioned.
By
"Loeb Boathouse Restaurant" in New York's Central Park is in the vicinity of the Bethesda Fountain and I think it's best for a warm-weather drink...
By
"Sisters" in New York is a Jamaican restaurant. Let's put it like this: when I go to Jamaica, I don't seek a restaurant until I come back!
By
In the lobby of 1166 Avenue of the Americas in NYC hang some significant tapestries by Lichtenstein & a large bronze homage to capitalism by Otterness...
By
300 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 300 Insider Tips from our local Spotters