East Point, Georgia – Honoring a Music Legend
East Point, Georgia, is getting ready to honor one of its most cherished sons, Rico Wade, with a lasting tribute—a monument celebrating his incredible impact on music and culture. A key figure in the Southern hip-hop music scene, Wade’s influence can still be felt worldwide. Tragically, Wade passed away on April 13, but his legacy lives on, inspiring countless fans and fellow artists alike.
A Legendary Legacy
Rico Wade was more than just a music producer; he was a visionary. As part of the Dungeon Family and the iconic group Organized Noize, Wade is credited for launching and shaping the careers of legendary acts such as Outkast, Goodie Mob, and Future. His distinctive sound helped define the Southern hip-hop genre, firmly placing Atlanta on the musical map.
Shanti Das, a well-respected former executive from LaFace Records, fondly remembered Wade as a creative mastermind. “Rico Wade was Atlanta through and through! He was the master conductor of the southern hip-hop movement, and we owe a great deal of gratitude to him,” Das remarked, underscoring Wade’s influence that went beyond music into areas like fashion and culture.
The Monument’s Meaning
The unveiling of the monument is an exclusive event, carefully planned to honor Wade’s legacy and recognize his contributions to music and culture. Sleepy Brown, a fellow Dungeon Family member, made the announcement through social media, building excitement among fans and admirers eager to celebrate Wade’s profound impact.
The monument will be erected in East Point, famously the location of “the Dungeon,” Rico Wade’s studio. This basement studio became the birthplace of the Dungeon Family’s groundbreaking sound. The city’s decision to immortalize Wade in the community reflects his significant role in putting Atlanta on the global music stage.
A Community’s Tribute
As Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens eloquently put it, “Rico left an indelible mark on music and culture around the world,” demonstrating why the grand monument is not just a tribute to his music but also his lasting influence on the local and global communities. His work as part of Organized Noize alongside Ray Murray and Sleepy Brown was transformative, shifting perceptions and crafting a new musical landscape for Southern artists.
The ceremony to unveil this monument is scheduled for November 7, and while it is a private event, the impact of the dedication will reverberate through the community. The monument serves as a physical reminder of Wade’s enduring legacy and his contributions to the cultural tapestry of Atlanta and beyond.
In Conclusion
Rico Wade’s story is a testament to the power of music and culture. His legacy is enshrined in the artists he nurtured, the sound he pioneered, and the lives he touched through his music. With the upcoming unveiling of his monument in East Point, generations to come can remember and be inspired by the immense contributions of this musical genius. Rico Wade, though gone, continues to be a beacon in the world of music—a true Atlantan icon.
