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This decision celebrates the artist's formative years in the area and honors his substantial contributions to the community.
E-40, whose real name is Earl Stevens, achieved widespread acclaim in the entertainment industry throughout his iconic three-decade-long hip-hop career. In 2015, he released a heartfelt song titled "Magazine Street," dedicated to the neighborhood that shaped his childhood.
The dedication of "E-40 Way" between Laurel Street and Old Glen Cove Road stands as a fitting tribute to the multiplatinum rapper and entrepreneur, who has consistently expressed pride in his Vallejo upbringing and showcased his love for the community through various philanthropic endeavors.
Notably, E-40 has supported the Vallejo Salvation Army by donating turkeys for Thanksgiving andoffering food donations to the homeless. He has also generously contributed to his alma mater, James J. Hogan High School, donating over $10,000 to the school's marching band and an additional $12,000 after the school faced vandalism.
The city of Vallejo is honoring Vallejo legend @e40 by renaming a mile long stretch of Magazine Street where the rapper grew up, and designating it "E-40 Way"! Are you planning on popping out to see E-40 Way once it's renamed? pic.twitter.com/dXNwq8PQkw
— Thizzler On The Roof (@TheThizzler) August 1, 2023
This year holds special significance for E-40, as it marks the 30th anniversary of his debut album in the music industry.
The official dedication ceremony for "E-40 Way" is scheduled to take place later this year, bringing together community members, fans, and local dignitaries to celebrate the artist's enduring impact on Vallejo.
E-40 joins a distinguished roster of musicians with ties to the Bay Area who have been immortalized through street names. In May, the Oakland City Council unanimously voted to rename a section of MacArthur Boulevard in honor of the late rapper Tupac Shakur. The portion between Grand and Van Buren Avenues will now be known as Tupac Shakur Way, paying homage to the artist's profound love and connection to Oakland, where he spent much of his youth.
Oakland has previously honored other notable figures by naming streets after them, including rapper Too $hort and Huey P. Newton, co-founder of the Black Panther Party.
