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Most people know him as Jaz, but two-and-a-half years ago, Daron Vincent and his partner Diane Popieski started what would be his personal ode to the world. RealEyes Bookstore in NoDa tells a city to open their eyes and appreciate this element of freedom.
1) Music: “I come from a generation of loving rap. But after I started maturing, I felt like a student trying to get away from that aggressive mentality. I listen to old school R&B, jazz and some classical.”
2) Books: “Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson was like the second book I ever read. It helps you change and adjust to life.”
3) Fashion: “Every once in a while, I dress up, but I usually come in with a T-shirt and my jeans on. I think it’s conflicting, me walking in the room — this bald-headed man with tattoos. But to me, it speaks to what I stand for. I like to be comfortable when I talk to people.”
4) Restaurant: “I’m a Chili’s, Applebee’s kinda guy.”
5) Hobby: “I like putting on events. Right now I’m focusing on my literary festival. It’s fun to me because that’s where my creativity lies. I want to create an arena where literature is still alive.”
This article appears in May 16-22, 2007.
I’ve known Darren for over 10 years and he is great guy (inside and out). I’m glad to see that he is doing well.