Hitting the Head by Andre Howard

Join us for a conversation with Andre Howard to celebrate his captivating photography and art book, inviting readers to explore the iconic dive bar scene of New York City. He will be in conversation with Karlita Sutela, followed by a signing.

PLEASE NOTE: RSVPs are encouraged but not required. Seating is limited and will be first come, first served. Doors open at 5:30 pm.

Can't attend? (please specify that you would like it signed in the comments box at checkout).

Hitting the Head is a compelling photography and art book that dives deep into the heart of New York City's iconic dive bar scene.

Published by Goff Books in 2025, this visual archive captures the character-filled, often overlooked interiors of these cultural landmarks, preserving their stories and essence before they disappear amidst urban renewal.
The title, rooted in maritime tradition, reflects both the literal act of visiting the restroom and the figurative moments of joy, community, and spontaneity found within these cherished spaces. From gritty interiors to neon-lit corners, Hitting the Head tells the tale of a world that thrives on camaraderie and rebellion, offering readers a nostalgic journey through NYC's counterculture history.
Perfect for fans of urban history, design, and nightlife, this book invites readers to explore the vibrant soul of the city through its hidden gems--dive bars that have long been sanctuaries for connection, storytelling, and authenticity.

Andre Howard is a seasoned music executive whose career spans A&R, artist management, marketing, and commerce, with a track record of success in both major and independent sectors of the industry. He began his career in A&R at Def Jam, working alongside legendary artists such as JAY-Z, DMX, Method Man, and Redman.

Transitioning into artist management, Andre joined Family Tree Entertainment and Violator, supporting talents including Fantasia, Missy Elliott, Pharoahe Monch, and Busta Rhymes. He later founded The Media Music Inc., an agency focused on advancing artist management and marketing strategies, where he secured brand partnerships with Shady/Aftermath, Reebok/RBK, ESPN Games, and HBO driving product placements, sync/licensing opportunities, and music production campaigns.

Andre returned to Universal Music to expand into eCommerce and marketing, and later joined Republic Records as an in-house Product Manager, where he played a pivotal role in the innovative visual album campaign for Jack Johnson’s From Here to Now to You. At eOne, he rose to Head of Marketing, leading digital-first strategies for key projects, including Brandy’s b7, which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Independent chart.

At Warner Music Group/ADA, Andre served as Vice President, overseeing commercial strategy for a diverse roster. His work included platinum-certified campaigns for Central Cee (“Doja”), YoungBoy Never Broke Again (From the Bayou / “Blackball”), Saint JHN (“Roses” 3x Platinum), as well as projects for Bonnie Raitt, Papa Roach, Sada Baby, and Dylan Conrique. His leadership earned him recognition on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players list in 2021.

Most recently, as Head of Commerce at UnitedMasters, Andre has focused on empowering independent artists through fan engagement, acquisition, and streaming growth strategies. In collaboration with the Brand, Sync, and Product teams, he has contributed to the success of multi-platinum artists such as BigXthaPlug and Brent Faiyaz, while also championing the careers of emerging talents like Anycia, Floyymenor and Ekkstacy. Currently, Andre serves as a marketing executive and Adjunct Professor at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music, where he mentors the next generation of music industry leaders, bringing real-world expertise in artist development, digital marketing, and commerce.

Karlita Sutela is a brand architect working with music artists and culture-driven brands. Her work sits at the intersection of visual identity, narrative strategy, and campaign execution, helping artists translate their truth into cohesive, scalable brands.

Originally trained as a performer in dance and film, Karlita moved to New York to study at AMDA before building a foundation in fashion and visual storytelling. She later earned a degree in Fashion Business Management from the Fashion Institute of Technology, grounding her creative instincts in marketing, advertising, and brand strategy.

She began her career as a wardrobe stylist, collaborating with artists and brands including Duckwrth, Daniel Kaluuya, VEVO, and the Brooklyn Nets. That foundation led her into creative direction and brand architecture, where she now leads projects spanning identity development, visual systems, and music marketing campaigns.

Through her studio, **Out of Mind**, and independent practice, Karlita partners with artists, businesses, and agencies globally to build intentional brands designed for longevity, resonance, and cultural impact.

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