“I feel like this is our home and we don’t have anything, the whole two fifth, they got rid of us. He spoke openly with Harlem Focus about what it means to be a young Black business owner during this current climate, as Harlem undergoes gentrification. Harlem has undergone exorbitant changes socially and economically since Ceaser, 36, was young in the early 2000’s and trying to find his purpose. Coming from the hood, these are the same streets my cousin Ted and I would run around looking for girls wishing we had something, now we got something, I’m not dribbling a basketball I’m not selling any drugs, this is all clean money.” “Honestly it was such a struggle trying to get here” says Ceaser. He is opening the door for other men like him to follow and securing his spot in Black history. The new shop will not be open until early March, but Ceaser wants people to know this boy from the hood is wining, unapologetically. Gossip blogs criticize the crew for exposing their growing pains, like when cast member Richard “O’ S***”Duncan introduced his 3rd baby mother to the show( they have since ended their relationship), or when shop owner David “Ceaser” Emmanuel fought rival tattoo shop owner Paul “Puma” Robinson on camera for the world to see. Not only are they currently filming the 4th season of the VH1 hit show Black Ink Crew, they are expanding and added an additional shop in the heart of Harlem on 125th street between 5th and Lenox Ave.

The “Black Ink Crew” has amassed a loyal fan base over the years and business is booming. If you find yourself in Harlem itching for a new tat, it’s a no brainer you will go to Black Ink.

Ceaser black ink shops