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Cash Money Records Founders “Baby” And “Slim” Have Central City Corner Renamed After Them In Their Honor

Capital Culture

Updated: Jul 26, 2024




As reported by NOLA.com, since the inception of Cash Money Records, brothers Bryan Williams, known as Birdman or Baby, and Ronald “Slim” Williams have amassed a significant fortune and indulged in a lavish lifestyle. However, on July 3rd, they returned to the Central City neighborhood where their remarkable journey began to receive a hometown honor that holds priceless legacy value.



In a brief ceremony, the corner of Saratoga and Erato streets, just steps away from the humble abode they once called home and where a local bar still bears their late mother's name, was officially designated as Williams Brothers Way.



It was not a complete street renaming akin to the transformation of Robert E. Lee Boulevard into Allen Toussaint Boulevard but rather an "honorary" designation, denoted by a red street sign, similar to the renaming of two blocks of Valence Street to “Neville Way” in honor of the legendary musical icons the Neville Brothers.


The unveiling of Williams Brothers Way was accompanied by a resounding soundtrack of New Orleans musical recordings, celebrating their deep-rooted connection to the city.


Gregory “Geedy P” Earls, in collaboration with politically influential Civil District Court employee David Hudson, orchestrated the renaming to coincide with the 30th anniversary Essence Festival of Culture, during which a celebration of Cash Money’s milestone was led by Birdman at the Caesars Superdome.



According to Don Bartholomew, Bryan and Ronald Williams, often referred to as hustlers, are best described as visionaries who have not just sustained but excelled in the impulsive music industry. Trishell “Ms. Tee” Williams, who was the first female artist signed to Cash Money with a release in 1993, reminisced about Baby Williams' unwavering belief in his own success during the label's early days. She vividly recalled how he would point to a picture on his office wall depicting a million dollars in cash and affirm, "That’s going to be me." “He manifested that,” Ms. Tee said. “To come out of the projects and to reach those heights – who can dream that?”


Ms Tee Source: Aubrey Edwards

Ms. Williams believes that the dedication of the corner of Erato and Saratoga as Williams Brothers Way is not only a significant acknowledgment of the duo’s impact on the culture of New Orleans but also serves as a testament to the youth that starting from humble beginnings does not limit one's potential for remarkable achievements.



Designating the corner of Erato and Saratoga as Williams Brothers Way is “good for the culture of New Orleans,” she said.


“And the youth can understand that you can start off one way in life and end up getting a street named after you.”


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