How to be Outside, Inside Featuring Roselle

This week, we’re tapping in with Roselle, an Afro-Indigenous DJ, content creator, and activist. Her New York is quiet in motion and centers connection on her terms. Sanctuary on a subway ride, low-key spaces for sonic discovery, and park time to touch grass.

Okayplayer: When you want to be “outside” without being OUTSIDE, where do you go in NYC?

Roselle: I'm really fond of the train - there’s this feeling of being in solidarity and isolation simultaneously. In this feel, held by the city while listening to music, reading.

I also love a sweet moment… Punsey’s Baked Goods (chocolate chip carrot cake and cheesecake) or Maple Creamery (vegan ice cream) are always a move. Both are Black-owned businesses. Punseys is from a tent across from FoodForNegus, a cute vegan spot.

Where do you go when you want to be around people, but not overwhelmed by crowds?

For the past year, my friend Nondough has been hosting an open deck every first and third Thursday at Father Knows Best in Bushwick. While there are always folks around, it’s the spot I can count on to hear some new music and catch up with friends without feeling overstimulated. It’s also where I’ve met the majority of my beloved DJ community. I’ll usually step out on the patio in the summer.

What does your perfect NYC day look like, from morning to night?

Sipping on ashwagandha root tea and lying on my acupressure mat to meditate immediately after waking up to start. Followed by yoga and breakfast while I work on music or a project, right now I'm editing a music video with footage from the Pan-Afro Wisdom Festival I played in Herbert Von King Park last month. The full set is on my SoundCloud.

It’s truly been the highlight of my life to play for others what moves me. That’d be included in my perfect day, too. Playing music for friends, strangers, or for myself. 

I’m also trying to get as much outdoor time until we find ourselves in the fall. I love the park. These days, I find myself in Herbert von King often. Last year, I was hit in a car accident, and getting back into my body and navigating my new normal has been a journey.

My friends will make fun of me for this, but getting home in time to make cookies and chat is how I'd end a perfect day. There's just something about decompressing with people you love... makes me feel alive.