Trumpeter Brian Newman is known for being Lady Gaga’s jazz bandleader, being the regular act at Gramercy Park Hotel’s Rose Room on Tuesdays and Thursdays, blowing the trumpet, and dressing to the nines.
Meet Trumpeter Brian Newman, a class-act with unique sense of style.
where did you grow up?
In Cleveland Ohio. Went to Cincinnati Conservatory for college where I met my bandmates that I continue to perform with today. I can’t believe it’s been almost 16 years now. We all moved to New York around the same time and continue to push ourselves, learn and play music the way we like to.
are you a social person?
I am most definitely a very social person. I love being an entertainer and all that lends itself too. I enjoy the nightlife very much. There are so many great people & places in New York to see and be seen. I consider it a blessing that I get to live here and do the thing I love in such a fantastic city.
describe your sense of style
I really dig the olds school bespoke vibe. I’ve had a very distinct taste for suits my whole life. It makes me feel better, play better when I’m dressed to the nines. Craig Robinson is a wonderful local tailor that I have known for years. (I think he got his start making suits for Interpol) He really keeps me looking good. I love going in for fittings & getting to input how I want it to look. it’s kind of a mix between 1950’s and 1970’s styling. Giorgio Brutini cuban heeled boots, Italian fabric, big collars, big lapels, Versace ties, tie bars, cufflinks, high waisted pants, braces and silk pocket squares. During the day around the house its tracksuits and Cazals.
tell me your favorite thing about New York City
You can do anything you want at any time you want. The city’s opportunities here are limitless if you have the drive and the staying power to really get inside of the city and what is has to offer.
what do you do to unwind?
A bottle of wine, my beautiful wife Angie Pontani and a romantic dinner at John’s on 12th St. I’m also a huge classic car guy. Working on and cruising in my 1971 Oldsmobile 98 is always a good day. It has a fully custom air bag suspension, a beefed up 455 big block motor and an all original interior that will fit the whole family. Probably fit another family in the trunk!
your cocktail of choice
Really depends on where I am, but I usually go with Budweiser or Champagne. Maybe a little tequila every once in a while if I’m feeling saucy.
name the goal you would like to accomplish over the next year My goals are always changing, but one common thing I always strive to achieve is to grow and move forward. Longevity is a constant goal for me. The band and I want to continue to elevate our sound and ultimately our product in a way that propels the music in an accessible way outward & forward to as many people we can reach. We have a really busy year on the “Cheek to Cheek” tour with Lady Gaga & Tony Bennett. The band and I had the chance to do some of the tracks on that record so now we are hitting the road! We are also recording an album of our own as we speak. It will feature lots of original music from myself and my good buddy Tommy London (of Dirty Pearls fame), some grooving standards & even some Willie Nelson. We are so lucky to have the legendary producer Dae Bennett doing the project with us. You can stay updated on everything at my website, www.BrianNewman.com and Instagram @BrianNewmanNY.
