Miami is honoring artists from its Liberty City neighborhood by naming streets after well-known songs. The initiative recognizes musicians who have contributed to the city’s cultural and economic landscape, with honorees including Rick Ross, Trick Daddy, Trina, City Girls, JT Money, Pitbull, and Flo Rida.
The Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners approved the new street names on Tuesday, following a proposal by District 3 Commissioner Keon Hardemon. The effort is part of a broader plan to revitalize Liberty City, an area with a rich musical history. Hardemon highlighted the significance of 18th Avenue, once known as Broadway, which was a center for nightlife, featuring bars, restaurants, and performance venues during the segregation era. By renaming streets after influential songs, city officials hope to draw attention to the neighborhood’s contributions to music while fostering economic growth.
The selection process focused on artists who achieved commercial success, particularly those who appeared on the Billboard Hot 100 and 200 charts. In addition to their musical achievements, honorees were recognized for their role in shaping Miami’s identity, whether through concerts, philanthropy, or other forms of community engagement. However, not all selections were met with unanimous support. Some residents expressed concerns about the lyrical content of certain songs, prompting officials to revise the final list. For example, Jacki-O’s “People Change” was chosen to replace Pretty Ricky’s “Grind With Me” due to community feedback.
The initiative follows a trend seen in other major cities that have paid tribute to hip-hop artists through street naming. In New York City, several streets have been dedicated to influential figures in the genre, including Christopher Wallace Way in Brooklyn, Wu-Tang Clan District in Staten Island, Hip Hop Boulevard in The Bronx, and Beastie Boys Square in Manhattan. Miami’s efforts reflect a growing recognition of hip-hop’s impact on local culture and history while reinforcing Liberty City’s role in shaping the city’s musical legacy.
