Resolution 250731

..Title Renaming the 2300 block of Snyder Ave "James Darrell Robinson, Jr., Way" in honor of James "Lil Darrell" Robinson, Jr., recognizing his contributions to Yesha Ministries and his community through his musical genius and artistic talents. ..Body WHEREAS, From a young age, James Darrell Robinson, Jr., displayed an exceptional sense of rhythm and a natural talent for music. He attended Girard Academic Music Program and the Settlement Music School, where he developed his drumming skills; and WHEREAS, During his senior year of high school, he began performing with Jazmine Sullivan and became a regular perform at the legendary "Black Lily" sessions, where The Roots hosted jam nights every Tuesday. On one such night, Darrell performed with the house band, opening the door to countless opportunities in the music world; and WHEREAS, Shortly after high school, Darrell landed his first professional gig with Jaguar Wright, marking the official beginning of his dream career. He went on to perform with legendary artists such as Pharrell Williams, N.E.R.D., The Roots, Jill Scott, LL Cool J, J. Cole, Snoop Dogg, Common, Queen Latifah, Eric Roberson, Lenny Kravitz, Floetry, and many others; and WHEREAS, Pharrell Williams once enthusiastically declared, "Darrell is one of the best, if not the best, drummers in the world"; and WHEREAS, Darrell's significant contributions to music were formally recognized when he received a Grammy certificate for his work on Pharrell's "Happy" live performance; and WHEREAS, In addition to his drumming, Darrell was a talented music producer. In 2004, he co-produced Jill Scott's hit single "Golden," along with other standout tracks like "When I Wake Up" and "Light of the Sun." His production credits also include work with The Roots ("Long Time," "Take It There," "Game Theory"), Kindred the Family Soul ("Contentment," "Surrender to Love"), Marsha Ambrosius ("I Want to Stay," "Do It Like That," "With You"), and Cris Cab ("Good Girls"), and many more; and WHEREAS, Darrell was deeply committed to giving back to his community. In 2015, he began working with middle and high school students to create Black History Month musical productions. He also founded the "Arts Meets Education" program which empowers youth by helping them build character and confidence through artistic expression; and WHEREAS, Darrell also served as the Managing and Artistic Director of Mizmore Music Concert and Rehearsal Studios, a 20,000 sq. ft. facility that specializes in music, film, photography, podcasts, TV production, and live and special events; and WHEREAS, James Darrell Robinson, Jr., was a vibrant, loving soul whose loss will be deeply felt by the City of Philadelphia and the many lives he touched; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby renames the 2300 Block of Snyder Ave "James Darrell Robinson, Jr., Way" in honor of James "Lil Darrell" Robinson, Jr., recognizing his contributions to Yesha Ministries and his community through his musical genius and artistic talents. FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to the family of James Darrell Robinson, Jr., as a token of the sincere admiration of this legislative body. ..End