In the late 1970s, New York City was bust and mired in debt, suffering from widespread corruption, arson and the collapse of its infrastructure. Its residents were victims of fear and despair as crime rose to an all-time high.

But in lower Manhattan, a creative street art sub-culture was booming with music, graffiti art, rap artists and nascent stars yet to shine like Debbie Harry and bands like Talking Heads.

Michael Holman was one of many experimental artists active in New York at that time

Michael met a young graffiti artist whose profound gnomic statements had picked up a following. He suggested to Michael that they form an Art House Noise Band. His name was Jean Michel Basquiat.

Overnight, Gray was born. They performed in The Mud club and other venues in the area.

Michael talks to Andrew McGibbon and recalls his time with Basquiat both as a band member and watching as his friend became a world-famous painter.

Written and Presented by Andrew McGibbon

Produced by Nick Romero

A Curtains For Radio Production for BBC Radio 4 Show less