Brian Abelson New York

Brian Abelson is a multifaceted individual whose work spans music, technology, and community organizing in New York City. Known for his contributions to electronic music under the alias Abelson Live, he has also made significant strides in data science and journalism. His diverse endeavors reflect a commitment to both artistic expression and social impact, making him a notable figure in various creative and analytical circles.

Musical Career and Artistic Expression

As a musician, Brian Abelson has crafted a distinctive sound that blends elements of disco, house, techno, and synth-pop. Over the past two decades, he has produced and DJ’d groove-oriented music, collaborating with artists like Xhosa to create nostalgic 90s-inspired New York house music. Their EP 2 Know U,” released on February 14th, 2025, pays homage to the vibrant NYC house scene with its infectious basslines and soaring vocals. Abelson’s work has been featured on labels such as Beats in Space, Sinderlyn, and Lobster Theremin, showcasing his versatility and influence in the electronic music community.

Beyond his solo projects, Abelson has been involved in collaborative efforts that explore the intersection of music and identity. Notably, he co-produced the album “Castle in the Sky” with Becca Kauffman under the moniker Jennifer Vanilla. This project delves into themes of identity crisis and artistic expression, blending live recordings with electronic production to create a unique sonic landscape. The album reflects Abelson’s commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and challenging conventional norms in music production.

Data Science and Journalism

In addition to his musical pursuits, Brian Abelson has made significant contributions to the field of data science, particularly in the realm of journalism. In 2013, he served as a Mozilla-Knight OpenNews Fellow at The New York Times, where he applied statistical and computational methods to analyze media impact. His work focused on developing tools to measure how news content influences audiences, providing valuable insights into the effectiveness of journalistic practices.

Abelson’s expertise in data science extends to his role as a researcher at the Tow Center for Digital Journalism at Columbia University. Here, he has collaborated on projects like NewsLynx, a tool designed to help newsrooms assess the impact of their content. His research emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making in journalism, advocating for the integration of analytical methods to enhance storytelling and audience engagement.

Community Engagement and Activism

Brian Abelson’s commitment to social causes is evident in his active involvement in community organizing. He serves as the volunteer coordinator for Bushwick Ayuda Mutua’s Tech and Data Support Working Group, where he applies his technical skills to support mutual aid efforts in the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn. Through this role, Abelson contributes to grassroots initiatives aimed at providing resources and assistance to underserved communities, demonstrating his dedication to social justice and equity.

Furthermore, Abelson is a board member of the RAFT Foundation, an organization focused on supporting artists and activists working at the intersection of art and social change. His involvement with RAFT underscores his belief in the power of creative expression to drive social transformation and his commitment to fostering environments where art and activism can thrive together.

Educational Background and Professional Development

Brian Abelson’s academic background in applied statistics from Columbia University has provided a strong foundation for his work in both data science and journalism. His education has equipped him with the analytical tools necessary to approach complex problems and develop innovative solutions. This academic training, combined with his practical experience, has enabled Abelson to bridge the gap between technical expertise and creative expression, making meaningful contributions to various fields.

Through his diverse endeavors in music, data science, and community organizing, Brian Abelson exemplifies a multifaceted approach to creativity and social impact. His work reflects a commitment to exploring the intersections of art, technology, and activism, and his contributions continue to influence and inspire in New York City and beyond. Whether through the rhythms of his music, the insights of his data analyses, or the support of his community initiatives, Abelson’s impact is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary engagement in addressing contemporary challenges.