A Tribute to a Pioneer
In a vibrant celebration of hip-hop history, New York City has unveiled a statue honoring Kool DJ Red Alert, a pioneer credited with revolutionizing the music scene.
The statue, unveiled last week as part of the Harlem Sculpture Gardens exhibit at Montefiore Park, pays homage to Red Alert’s groundbreaking contributions.
A Dynamic Display
Entitled “YEAA-a-a-a- a-ah!”—a nod to his iconic radio chant—the statue depicts the DJ and producer in action, spinning records on turntables. What sets this tribute apart is its dynamic nature: powered by solar panels, it features an audio mix by Kool DJ Red Alert himself, bringing his legendary beats to life at select times.
The Artist Behind the Statue
Renowned artist Sherwin Banfield, known for his dedication to capturing hip-hop culture, crafted this piece as part of his Sustainable Sonic Statues series.
Previously, Banfield immortalized LL Cool J with a bust in Queens that played the rapper’s tracks five days a week.
A Legacy of Innovation
Kool DJ Red Alert often hailed as the inventor of the mixtape during his collaborations with Afrika Bambaataa, has been a fixture on WBLS radio for four decades. Reflecting on the ceremony, he expressed gratitude: “This is something that’s very rare, but in blessings, I’m here to witness it. I had something that you do as a hobby, and then you get a couple dollars, and it becomes a hustle, not knowing it would establish me a career.”
Celebrating Harlem’s Cultural Heritage
The unveiling ceremony not only commemorated Red Alert’s influence on music but also underscored Harlem’s role in nurturing and celebrating hip-hop’s evolution. As visitors and fans gather to admire this tribute, it stands as a testament to the enduring impact of Kool DJ Red Alert’s pioneering spirit on the cultural landscape of New York City and beyond.
Photo credit: 1) Source 2) Savona Bailey-McClain.
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