The vibrant city of Houston is gearing up for its annual celebration of 713 Day, an unofficial holiday named after the city's original area code. This year, the festivities take on a special meaning as a new cocktail bar in the Second Ward pays homage to the late DJ Screw, a legendary Houston hip-hop musician. The bar, By The Wayside, has commissioned four stunning murals that showcase DJ Screw in a Houston Texans jersey, a unique and powerful symbol of the city's rich musical heritage.
The murals, created by local artists Donkeeboy, Gabriel Escobedo, SpaceCityArtKreations, and w3r3on3, are a testament to the enduring impact of DJ Screw on Houston's hip-hop culture. By The Wayside's co-owner, Braden Navarre, emphasizes the importance of music in the bar's concept, stating, 'We are a music venue as well, so we really put music at the forefront of things. So to pay homage to Screw is really, really cool to have that here.'
713 Day is more than just a celebration of Houston's music scene; it's a day to honor the city's roots and the people who have shaped its unique identity. The holiday was officially recognized by former mayor Annise Parker in 2015, and it has since become a beloved tradition across the city. The Navares, the bar's owners, are passionate about giving back to the community and celebrating the culture that has shaped Houston.
The DJ Screw murals, unveiled in late June, were part of an event with the Houston Texans that included a popup shop selling exclusive DJ Screw-themed merchandise. This collaboration between the bar and the local art collective Free Walls highlights the city's commitment to preserving its musical history. The murals serve as a powerful statement of hometown pride, reflecting the spirit of 713 Day and the deep connection between Houston's residents and their city.
As the sun sets on 713 Day, the murals will continue to stand as a reminder of Houston's vibrant music scene and the enduring legacy of DJ Screw. The celebration of music, community, and cultural heritage is at the heart of this special day, and By The Wayside's tribute to DJ Screw is a testament to the power of art in preserving and sharing the city's rich history.
