Fat Joe Receives Key to New York City from Mayor Eric Adams
During an unforgettable night in the Bronx, New York City Mayor Eric Adams honored hip-hop legend Fat Joe with the prestigious key to the city.
This surprise took place on Tuesday evening at the Up NYC concert held at Orchard Beach, where fans were treated to an electrifying performance from the beloved rapper.
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As Fat Joe took the stage, Mayor Adams praised him for his invaluable contributions to music and culture.
“Fat Joe who’s getting the Key to the City of New York. All his legendary — his music, a real brother, authentic — we want to give you this key”
Adams declared, presenting the award amid cheers from the crowd. With the key in hand, a visibly moved Fat Joe took a moment to express his deepest gratitude, not only to his family but also to the pioneers of hip-hop who paved the way for future artists.
“Shout-out my wife, my daughter, shout-out my favorite aunt in the world. I gotta thank the pioneers. From Melle Mel, Mr. Ness to KRS-One — my whole life I been trying to be KRS-One — LL Cool J, Heavy D and the list goes on, I want to shout out everybody here because we in the Bronx and I know I know all of you. Every last one of you, I know you — I love you.”
Mayor Eric Adams Awards Fat Joe Key to New York City in Tribute to Hip-Hop:
You know I had to Boogie Down to the Bronx to join the crowd at our Rise Up NYC concert at Orchard Beach!
— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) August 21, 2024
We made it an even more special evening by presenting Fat Joe with the “New York City Entertainer's Key” for always giving back to the borough that raised him. pic.twitter.com/7fygjWWSH4
Fat Joe also made it clear how grateful he was to connect with his Bronx community.
His emotional speech reflected not just personal achievement but a celebration of the entire hip-hop culture that originated in the neighborhoods of New York.
Earlier this month, in a heartfelt Instagram video, Fat Joe hinted at his upcoming honor, mentioning that not everyone shared in his excitement about receiving the key.
Despite mixed reactions, Joe remained focused on the impact he hopes to continue having in his community and in hip-hop at large.
This tribute to Fat Joe serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of hip-hop and its ability to bring people together, honoring those who have shaped its history while inspiring the next generation.