We had the good fortune of connecting with Richie Leone and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Richie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I wanted to create something that was completely honest & stripped. Truths that I wasn’t necessarily proud to admit but did because I not only wanted to free myself from it, but other people that are struggling with similar issues.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
LEONE is all about healing through vulnerability. When I step out on stage, most of the time I am mostly naked. I want people to see me, judge me based on my appearance, and then I want to sing my saddest shit possible FIRST.
I think a lot of us see each other & make assumptions without actually taking the time to listen to what is actually being said & to intention.
I wouldn’t be making the art I do today if I didn’t experience pain & loss. Losing a parent to cancer lit a fire inside of me & sent me on this intense journey to find truth & meaning in everything. I don’t think I’d be the artist I am now without that pain.
I guess what I want for myself as well as our listeners is to constantly strive to be honest & humbled.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well, luckily for this friend, I live in a pretty dope city.
I’d obviously have to take them to see some live music in Brooklyn: TV Eye, Sultan Room, Our Wicked Lady, Arlene’s Grocery.
Have a classy night out where maybe we do dinner on the rooftop of the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg at Bar Blondeau. Then head over to the Standard Hotel rooftop & check out my favorite view of the city.
Have chill days in McCarren Park with a bottle of rosé. Reading some tarot & getting a cute tan.
Beach days at Jacob Riis or Sandy Hook.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Anyone that was part of the sound/visuals for LEONE: Peter Savad
Brian Del Guercio
Tarik Merzouk
Maggie Fraser
Jeff Buckholz
Olaa Olabi
Beth Fletcher
AND MANY MORE
Website: Projectleone.com
Instagram: @projectleone
Facebook: Facebook.com/projectleone
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@projectleone
TikTok: @project.leone
Image Credits
Michelle LoBianco Jeff Buckholz Rosie Soko