In this episode, we talk about Black cowboys in California, with a conversation featuring the creative mind behind a new photography book of California Black cowboys, Gabriela Hasbun, alongside one of the cowboys featured in the book – Prince Damons.

A powerful symbol of self-reliance, strength, and determination, the Black cowboy is a figure commonly overlooked in the histories of the American West. Held annually in cities across the United States, the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo honors the historic accomplishments of Black cowboys and fosters a vibrant community dedicated to continuing that legacy. Bay Area photographer Gabriela Hasbun has spent more than a decade photographing this beloved event in the Oakland hills. Her images capture the joy and excitement of performers and audience members, showcasing the daring feats, spectacular outfits, and welcoming atmosphere that make the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo an unmissable experience. In addition to Hasbun’s photographs, The New Black West features quotes and stories from the cowboys themselves and a foreword from the Oakland rodeo’s regional manager, Jeff Douvel.

Prince Damons, aside from being a seasoned, veteran recording artist, producer & songwriter, is also revered as one of Los Angeles’ most skilled horsemen. Hailing from Mississippi, Prince has been riding and training horses since the age of seven. As one of the team leads for the growing, equestrian conglomerate “The Horse Whisperers”, he masterfully divides his schedule between live performances, creative time recording in the studio and at his ranch saddling up one of his beautiful horses. Prince, who now resides in sunny California, is also expanding his resume as an actor as well. So be on the lookout for “The Mississippi Cowboy” as he is affectionately called by many!!

Buy The New Black West here: https://www.chroniclebooks.com/products/the-new-black-west-hc

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