MY WORKPLAYCE: RICH THE BARBER
Name: Rich
Location: Woodside, Queens, NY
Occupation: Barber
Affiliations: Filthy Rich Barber Shop
Background: I actually met Rich through one of my good friends who lives in CT. She was in need of a barber to shave designs in her hair when she came across Rich’s Facebook page. I too was in need of a new barber, someone who knew how to cut “Asian” hair, so she referred me to him. Rich actually came to my apartment one night to cut my hair, and by looking at dude, I wasn’t too sure if he really knew how to use scissors. However, 20 min. later, and after an extensive evaluation in my mirror, I was hooked.
What’s in his space: 1. Red Dartbox with old clippers (Andis Masters & T-Liners) 2. HP Pavilion dv9000 Laptop 3. Seattle Mariners Hat 4. Atlas Barber School Certificate of Completion (3rd Ave & E 9th St. NY) 5. 55″ VIZIO LCD TV 6. Craftman Toolbox with clippers, scissors, and other hair products 7. 10.Deep Stickers (Thanks Eric) 8. Blackberry Tour 9. 10 foot full length mirror 10. 2010 Model Barber Chair 11. Teddy Bear
Q. How long have you been cutting hair for? What made you become a barber?
R: I’ve been cutting hair for over 10 years and it’s amazing how time flies. I vividly remember my start back when I was 16. I ventured to a barber shop where the barbers were of Russian descent and unfortunately, the cut was horrific. Not to down their skills but the end product I recieved just wasn’t my style. I came home disappointed and asked my mother for money to buy my own clipper set. Since then, I never turned back.
Q. Are those barber certificates on your wall? I’m assuming you’re certified? Please tell me you know how to use scissors.
R: Yes! These important documents are my barber certificates from Atlas Barber School in Soho. Even though I recieved my credentials and basic skills from that school, the bulk of my expertise with scissors was learned outside of the 5-month program there. I learned through my clientelle with longer hair that needed the perfect mohawk or fade, and my clippers can’t create the look on longer hair that my scissors and shears can.
Q. I couldn’t help but notice the dartboard cupboard filled with clippers. Do you use have multiple clippers, or are those retired.
R: The red dartboard you mentioned is my “shrine” for all of my clippers that are no longer with us. Some were broken along the way, or just gave out in the line of duty, some even during a cut but each clipper hanging in the rafters has a story behind it, as well as notable cuts to noteworthy people.
Q. Do you cut hair outside of your shop?
R: Yes, my staff & I cater to many events including weddings, photo and video shoots, and last but not least residential visits. I also travel from state to state visiting well respected shops, and attend barber conventions. My outside work is how you gave me a shot right Eric? I definitely appreciate the opportunity as well as the door that you opened up for this interview. Much props!
Q. Ohh no doubt. Besides me, who’s your favorite person to cut hair for? What celebrities have you cut?
R: Of course… Besides you, my favorite person to cut hair for is my barber Rhyan Woods aka 360 who works with me at my barber shop. He was a cool, laid back and professional dude since he came in and we’ve vibed since. Not to mention he gives me the most precise tapers and fades and his lining skills are nothing to play with. If you ever see me with a fresh cut, it most likely is the work of 360. Now for celebrities I’ve cut Freeway, Jin, DJ Yonny, DJ Spin-One, DJ Getlive, DJ Fatfingaz & L.A.’s own DJ Big Cyph. My clientelle also consists of very important movers & shakers in the fashion, music, & entertainment industry that prosper behind the scenes.
Q. What’s the hot topic in the barber shop these days? I know you guys are always “choppin’ it up” No pun intended.
R: Pacquiao! We want that Pacquiao Mayweather fight! Not a day goes by when we dont mention that at the shop!
Q. What are your favorite tunes to cut hair to? What’s on rotation on your iTunes right now?
R: We don’t do anything along the lines of 106 n Park here if you catch my drift! We do rock to the latest hip-hop and R&B, a touch of reggae, but we usually plug in our iPods and vibe to Golden Age rap music circa the 80′s, 90′s, and early ’00s. Thats of course if a DJ doesnt stop by to spin for us.
Q. Any future projects in the works?
R: Its definitely a secret that’s best kept…Jay-Z said it best on Coming Of Age “You let yo shit bubble quietly, and then you blow!”
Q. Any notable highlights or unique opportunities since you’ve been cutting hair. I hear you’re also a part time model. LOL.
R: 10 Deep! You answered the question for me Eric! The modeling was a welcome change from my occupation and it gave me a reason to show off a bit. LOL
Q. What’s the best thing about being a barber?
R: It’s the connections, man. Nothing speaks louder than a finished product, and in this business the results pay off from your work immediately. Word of mouth is the best clout.
Q. What’s the best tip you’ve ever got?
R: Well, money-wise, I did get paid hotel acommodations, round trip flights, as well as a hefty money exchange for my services. Life lesson-wise, the best tip I’ve recieved was this: ”Don’t stop, keep the name, and stick with it.” I plan on staying true to that.
Filthy Rich Barber Shop 6312 Roosevelt Ave. Woodside, NY 718-396-3300
