Heavy D Honored with ‘Peaceful Journey’ Sculpture in Mount Vernon Unveiling Event
Influential rapper Heavy D, celebrated for his infectious beats and captivating lyrics that shaped the landscape of Hip-Hop music, was commemorated with a sculpture unveiling event.
The ceremony, hosted by Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard, took place at the highly anticipated luxury high-rise, 42 Broad Street.
Born Dwight Arrington Myers in Jamaica, Heavy D moved to Mount Vernon with his family during his youth, where he discovered his passion for rap music. His remarkable talent quickly earned him recognition, both locally and globally. Heavy D released several successful albums throughout his career, including Living Large (1987), Big Tyme (1989), and Peaceful Journey (1991), with the latter serving as the inspiration for the sculpture honoring his legacy.
Selected through a competitive process overseen by ArtsWestchester, a prominent advocate for public art, the sculpture, fittingly titled “Peaceful Journey,” was created by esteemed Brooklyn-based artist Eto Otitgbe. The artwork stands at the bustling intersection of Broad Street and Fleetwood Avenue, symbolizing Heavy D’s influence in the community.
Otitgbe explained that the sculpture aimed to pay tribute to the profound impact Mount Vernon, the Bronx, and Los Angeles had on the lives of Black and Brown individuals, a theme poignantly depicted in Heavy D’s music. “I wanted to pay homage to the Mount Vernon community that had such an important place in Hip-Hop with this work of art,” Otitgbe said of Peaceful Journey.
During the unveiling event, Heavy D’s family, including his mother, Euhlalee Myers, attended and expressed their appreciation for the artwork. She shared her son’s deep affection for the arts and his unwavering love for Mount Vernon. “My son loved the arts, and this sculpture depicts the love that he had, especially for the city of Mount Vernon,” ABC7 reported.
Mayor Patterson-Howard addressed the crowd, acknowledging Heavy D’s significant contributions to the city’s cultural fabric. “Heavy D holds a special place in the history of Mount Vernon and the Hip-Hop genre. This sculpture serves as a fitting tribute to his legacy and the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop.”
Sadly, Heavy D passed away in November 2011 at age 44 from complications related to cardiovascular disease and a blood clot in his lung. His sudden and unexpected death left an indelible void in the music industry and served as a stark reminder of life’s fragility and his enduring impact on artistry.
Heavy D’s memory lives on through his timeless music and his profound influence on Mount Vernon and the Hip-Hop community. The “Peaceful Journey” sculpture stands as a poignant tribute to his legacy, reminding all who encounter it of this legendary rapper’s vibrant spirit and immense talent.
