Galveston Unveils Statue Honoring Barry White, Celebrating a Legend’s Hometown Roots
In a deeply emotional and long-anticipated ceremony, the city of Galveston, Texas, has paid tribute to one of its most iconic native sons—Barry White—with the unveiling of a permanent bronze statue. Set in the heart of the city’s historic Strand District, the statue celebrates the life, legacy, and soulful sound of the legendary musician, whose smooth baritone voice defined an era of love ballads and rhythm and blues.
Barry White, born Barry Eugene Carter in 1944, spent his early childhood in Galveston before his family moved to Los Angeles. Though he rose to international fame far from the Texas Gulf Coast, White never forgot his roots, and many in Galveston never forgot him. Known for timeless hits like “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, Babe,” “You’re the First, the Last, My Everything,” and “Never, Never Gonna Give Ya Up,” White left an indelible mark on the music world. Now, that legacy is permanently etched into the city that helped shape the man behind the music.
A Tribute Cast in Bronze
The statue, commissioned by the city in collaboration with local artists, musicians, and White’s family, was designed by renowned sculptor Ed Dwight. Standing nearly 10 feet tall, the bronze figure captures White mid-performance—microphone in hand, leaning slightly forward with his signature charisma and intensity. The sculpture is surrounded by a low circular platform inscribed with some of his most beloved lyrics and a timeline of his musical journey.
“This monument is more than a statue—it’s a statement,” said Galveston Mayor Craig Brown at the unveiling ceremony. “Barry White’s music brought people together across generations and backgrounds. He was a global icon, but his story began right here in Galveston. We are proud to honor that legacy in a way that generations to come can see and celebrate.”
The statue is located in a newly designated Barry White Plaza, a small park framed by oak trees, historical markers, and benches where visitors can reflect, listen to his music through nearby speakers, and learn about his life through interactive exhibits.
A Community’s Effort
The path to this moment began more than a decade ago with local residents advocating for greater recognition of White’s connection to the city. Spearheaded by a group of community leaders and music lovers, the effort eventually gained momentum, drawing support from city officials, local businesses, and Barry White’s surviving family.
“This is something we’ve dreamed of for years,” said Marcia Henderson, a Galveston music historian and one of the original petitioners for the statue. “Barry White may have been known all over the world, but his heart, his roots, his first influences—they all started right here. It’s only right that Galveston finally gives him the honor he deserves.”
Private donors, music fans, and state grants helped fund the project, and White’s daughters, Shaherah and Bridgette White, were closely involved in the planning. Both were present at the ceremony, visibly emotional as they addressed the crowd of fans and well-wishers.
“Our father was more than his voice,” said Shaherah White. “He believed in love, unity, and truth through music. Galveston was where he first heard gospel, first played piano, and first dreamed of something bigger. This statue brings all that full circle.”
Legacy and Inspiration
White’s influence on soul, R&B, and popular music cannot be overstated. With a career that spanned over three decades, five Grammy Awards, and over 100 million records sold worldwide, his smooth sound and orchestral arrangements redefined the genre. Yet, in the eyes of Galveston residents, his real success was rooted in how he used his music to uplift, unite, and inspire.
To honor his legacy further, the city announced plans for an annual “Barry White Day” to take place every year on September 12—White’s birthday. The celebration will include live music, youth workshops, and educational programming focused on the history of soul music and the arts.
“It’s not just about remembering Barry White,” said Mayor Brown. “It’s about inspiring the next Barry White. That’s what this statue represents—a symbol of what can grow from Galveston when talent is nurtured, when dreams are believed in.”
Conclusion
The unveiling of Barry White’s statue marks a significant moment in Galveston’s cultural history—a celebration of a son of the city whose music touched the world. As the sounds of White’s classics echoed through the plaza during the dedication ceremony, smiles, tears, and applause filled the air.
Galveston has given the world many things, but few as timeless and resonant as the voice of Barry White. With this statue, his presence remains in the city’s heart forever—silent in bronze, but always singing in the soul.
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