About — Wild in the Street

Your Guide

Mark

Licensed NYC Sightseeing Guide · Wild in the Street

I am a fourth generation New Yorker* and have lived on Harlem's Strivers Row since 1999. Before I started leading tours, I spent decades in the music industry — including as President of one of the most prestigious music PR firms in the world. I worked with superstars and legends, on dozens of Gold and Platinum albums and with Grammy winners galore. I've been backstage at every major award show and festival you can think of.

These tours grew out of personal passions. The Velvet Underground, Billie Holiday, the Brill Building — these aren't subjects I researched for a job. They're obsessions I've carried for years. When you walk with me, you're getting the real thing: primary sources, personal connections, and stories most guides don't know exist.

I am a licensed NYC Sightseeing Guide, a proud member of the Guides Association of New York City (GANYC) and a board member of Save Harlem Now!, a historic preservation nonprofit.

* But I grew up in Connecticut.

What People Are Saying

Mark is a singular talent in bringing you back to another era, whether the Brill Building singer/songwriters or the Velvet Underground. He clearly has a passion not only for the main subject, but what makes New York the great city it is. He will point out interesting architecture that may be tangential to the main topic, but equally fascinating. He also has encyclopedic knowledge of his subjects. Mark answered every one of my many questions with patience and fascinating information. There are few folks that could provide such a great tour.

Peter A.

Mark's tours are always great, and always deliver more than you're expecting. I've taken several of his music tours and they inevitably turn into tours of New York history, too. And New York architecture. And New York food. Mark is a walking encyclopedia of all these subjects and more, which makes each tour so much richer. And his music knowledge – and passion – is simply next level. He knows the players, he knows the plays, and he's heard the acetate of that first demo from 1965. Or 1935. He might even play it for you.

Matty K.

Mark's "Billie Holiday's Harlem and the Birth of the Jazz Age" walking tour was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. While the focus was on Billie Holiday and the jazz era, Mark wove in so much more — the architecture, the history, and the deep sense of community that shaped the neighborhood. He's clearly passionate and knowledgeable, and the tour left me with a much richer understanding of Harlem beyond just the music. Highly recommend for anyone interested in jazz history or just a great walking tour of NYC.

Dana K.

Mark is an absolute gem. His tours are exceptionally well-researched, and the depth and breadth of information he shares bring every experience to life. He has a remarkable ability to make history, culture, and local insights both engaging and memorable. Beyond his expertise, Mark is a pleasure to work with — professional, personable, and genuinely enthusiastic about what he does. He is also incredibly thoughtful, always considering the comfort of his guests by finding shade on hot days and knowing exactly where restroom stops are available along the route. I arrange many tours for my group each year, and Mark is unquestionably one of my favorite guides. His knowledge, preparation, and attention to detail consistently create outstanding experiences. I recommend him without hesitation.

Loreta L.