Thousands gather for 901 Day celebrations in downtown Memphis
by: Brian Didlake
Posted:
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The city of Memphis said more than 10,000 people were downtown as the city celebrated everything that is Memphis for 901 Day.
“Disregarding all the negativity you hear about Memphis it seems real safe, everybody seem like they having a good time, it’s children out here, it’s a bunch of families, it’s a vibe,” said Memphis Mayor Paul Young. “We have been doing all of the things to make sure the area is safe and protected. MPD is in full force.”
Mayor Young stressed no notable incidents during the festivities and said events like this drive up the economy.
“We need all the support we can get and I’m glad the city is behind us in that manner,” said Christopher Farris, educator and artist.”
“Our hope is even after the event ends they’ll go somewhere else than downtown and other parts of the city and spend money,” said Mayor Young.
Viral sensation, nine-year-old Alaynna Dot performed “Chickenhead” with Memphis legend Project Pat and had surprise guest La Chat from Three Six Mafia.
“We just keep it positive, you know let people know, if they still breathing they got a chance,” said Rapper Project Pat.
“Memphis just gone be Memphis, you know we got our own slang, our own swag, our own style, like I always say nobody can be Memphis but us,” said Rapper La Chat of Three Six Mafia.
“I think that is really our responsibility man, not to celebrate the negative mentality, but to lift up individuals that are positive,” said Memphis Rapper, Songwriter Kia Shine.
“There are the moments that need to be highlighted, all our people came together, all our people supported each other and all our people came and ate good food, had drinks and we were able to vibe out have a good time and still make it home safe,” said Memphis Rapper K Carbon.