INGLEWOOD – The city of Inglewood has announced it will present rapper Mack 10 with the Key to the City during the Juneteenth Father’s Day Festival on June 16.
Dedrick Rolison, known professionally as Mack 10, is a long-time Inglewood resident and alumni of Inglewood High School feels honored to be recognized for his charitable contributions to Inglewood’s youth.
“It feels great being honored by the city of Inglewood because I am being recognized in an extremely positive way by the people that I represent. And it’s an extra special feeling because Inglewood is where I’m from,” Rollison said.
Taste of Inglewood, which organizes the annual festival, made the announcement on their social media accounts on June 7.
“Mack 10 and his successful hip hop career should be celebrated, however, his humanitarian contribution in helping local children in Inglewood is what stands out most. No matter where his career took him, he remained a community man, and how impressive that in 1995 he made the Billboard Top R&B Artist list coming in second to Michael Jackson,” said event organizers.
Rolison understands what it’s like to be a student dreaming of success and being able to achieve his dream is a testament to his determination, drive, and hard work.
“It feels great to achieve your dreams because I have always been a big dreamer! And what I have noticed about people who achieve their dreams, is that they put a plan in place and Execute, they don’t just talk about it. They work hard to make it happen,” Rolison said.
Actor and comedian Gerald “Slink” Johnson, is proud to see Mack 10 being recognized by the City as he too was a student at Inglewood High and understands how proud it is to call Inglewood home.
“I feel so blessed to live and dream and be able to be around, interact and fellowship with my community is both an honor and a privilege,” said Johnson. “I’m proud to say Mack 10 and I are from the same section especially with him being one of the greatest to ever put on for hip hop and the West Coast.”
Mack 10 is excited about the event and to see the community come out to see him being honored during the celebration.
“I have a big heart and I love to help. It’s my city, my community, and we should definitely take care of our own. To me success and character are measured by how well you take care of your people,” said Rolinson.
Rolinson’s Key to the City follows the City previously bestowing keys to actress and producer Issa Rae, music star DSmoke, and Becky G.
The event organizers thanked the City and the Inglewood Police Department for their continued support and for ensuring a safe community event for all who attend.
“These events would not be possible without Mayor James Butts, the council, and Chief Mark Fronterotta’s desire to host world-class events for the residents,” said the organizers.
The Juneteenth Father’s Day Festival will take place in downtown Inglewood at Market Street and Manchester Blvd. from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
For more information contact [email protected].