Driving through Beatties Ford Road in Charlotte, locals and visitors alike encounter a new landmark—a vibrant mural that commands attention on the side of JJ's Hair Design salon. The work features three iconic North Carolina musical talents: gospel singer John P. Kee, singer and actress Fantasia, and singer-songwriter Anthony Hamilton. Financed by the City of Charlotte's Urban Design Center with a grant from the Knight Foundation, this public art piece is a gesture by the Historic West End Partners (HWEP) to enliven the neighborhood with cultural significance.
Keeping music at the heart of the piece, Executive Director of HWEP J’Tanya Adams told CharlotteNC.gov, “We help create that by creating authentic bodies of work for all to enjoy.” The community had a voice in the mural's direction, decisively choosing the theme via a survey distributed by HWEP. Artists Kee, Fantasia, and Hamilton were chosen, hailed for not only their artistry but also their ties to North Carolina and the example they set for potential success.
Adams magnified the purpose behind the selection of these artists, stating, "Anthony Hamilton grew up here. He sang at my Presbyterian church. As for Fanstasia, we appreciate her for choosing Charlotte as her home. We are inspired by her, and we love that she is such a role model for young women.” Adams further emphasized their significance by noting the reach of their influence, now extended to both national and international stages, embodying the attainability of success regardless of one's origin. According to a CharlotteNC.gov statement, Kee has been "very vital to helping people around North Carolina."
Artist Abel Jackson was tasked with the responsibility of bringing these figures to life on the mural. Jackson's intent was clear, wanting to resonate with the community: "If people were going to see themselves in the people on this mural, I wanted to show each person doing what they did best,” he reported to CharlotteNC.gov.
