The Atlas Obscura Podcast
Times Square Hum (Classic)
Mar 29, 2025
Join an adventurous exploration of Times Square as an intriguing sound known as 'The Hum' takes center stage. This unique auditory experience, often overlooked, blends seamlessly with the vibrant energy of Manhattan. Local insights reveal varying levels of awareness about this hidden gem. The calming echoes are compared to Tibetan singing bowls, inviting listeners to delve into an unusual but captivating soundscape amidst the city's hustle. Practical tips help ensure you catch the symphony at its peak, making for a truly immersive journey.
11:57
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Quick takeaways
- The Times Square hum, an unnoticed sound installation, invites reflection on how art can subtly enhance urban experiences for millions daily.
- The project's social experiment aspect reveals that many find the hum soothing, highlighting the potential for art to foster communal connections in busy environments.
Deep dives
The Understated Art of Sound in Times Square
An experimental sound installation by Max Newhouse, known simply as 'the hum,' exists within the vibrant chaos of Times Square. This decades-old piece rises from a grate on a busy pedestrian triangle, blending into the atmosphere, making it easy for passersby to overlook its presence. Newhouse aimed to create art that did not require a formal understanding or prior knowledge, allowing it to serve as a subtle engagement for the vast number of people in the area. Although approximately 300,000 visitors traverse Times Square daily, very few recognize they are walking above an important work of sound art, highlighting the unique relationship between art and everyday experiences in urban settings.
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