During this year’s Juneteenth celebration, 100-year-old Asta Hairston, a renowned New York jazz lyricist and composer, was celebrated not just for her century-spanning life but also as a testament to how good lifestyle choices and healthcare can lead to a long, healthy life.
Born in 1924, Hairston has lived through a century of cultural and historical changes, all the while contributing richly to the New York music and arts scene.
Hairston’s philosophy on life is simple:
“You survived yesterday, and if you get through today, tomorrow will take care of itself.”
This optimistic outlook has carried her through a century of experiences. She credits her longevity to good health, proper nutrition, and a focus on passions beyond oneself. Hairston has been a fixture in New York’s arts scene for nearly 60 years, living in the Upper West Side after a long tenure in Hamilton Heights, Harlem.
Her contributions to the arts are significant.
For four decades, she served as a music program supervisor in New York City public schools and was the muse and companion of the renowned jazz saxophonist Sonny Stitt. Over the past decade, she has been an active lyricist and composer, collaborating with artists like Nicki Richards, Gustavo Casenave, and Christian McBride.
Hairston’s creativity has resulted in dozens of compositions, a testament to her belief in staying active and engaged.
In her two-bedroom apartment, Hairston maintains an active lifestyle. Her “everything room” is filled with books, a music keyboard, and a computer where she writes lyrics and other works.
Despite her age, she moves around independently and values her interactions with friends and caretakers.
One of her closest friends, Sevariah Hendrix, who is 75 years old, shares a deep bond with Hairston. Hendrix, a seasoned stylist to major recording artists, recounts their first meeting fondly:
“She said, ‘You’re the celebrity,’ and I said, ‘No, you’re the celebrity.’ And we just clicked.”
Hairston’s geriatrician, Dr. Christine Chang of Mt. Sinai, highlights her exemplary adherence to “The Five M’s” of geriatric care: medications, mind, mobility, multicomplexity, and what matters most.
Hairston needs few medications, stays mentally sharp through creative activities, maintains her physical mobility, manages her health needs, and treasures her friendships.
On Juneteenth, reflecting on her life’s journey and the historical significance of the day—her grandmother was emancipated at the time of the original Juneteenth, 158 years ago—Hairston offered a simple yet profound piece of advice:
“You live every minute of every day and give thanks that you’re happy and healthy.”
Asta Hairston embodies a life well-lived, full of passion, creativity, and meaningful connections.
