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Statement of Introduction
DC Legendary Musicians Way Designation Act of 2024
November 14, 2024
Today I am introducing the “DC Legendary Musicians Way Designation Act of
2024”. This legislation designates the alley within Square 441, bounded by 7th Street,
N.W., T Street, N.W., Wiltberger Street, N.W., and S Street, N.W., in Ward 1, as DC
Legendary Musicians Way, to recognize the contributions of DC Legendary Musicians Inc.,
an organization committed to the advancement of music and empowerment of musicians
in the District.
DC Legendary Musicians Inc. (DCLM) was founded by Rev. Dr. Sandra Butler-
Truesdale as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 2012 with the purpose of preserving,
protecting, and promoting the artistic legacy, contributions, and well-being of D.C.’s
professional musicians. The organization’s goal is not only to recognize the
accomplishments of local musicians but also to rebuild and revitalize the unique “D.C.
Sound.” In doing so, DCLM works to bridge generational divides and create new
opportunities for musicians across the region.
D.C. is a center of musical innovation, having shaped American popular music and
produced legendary figures such as John Philip Sousa, James Reese Europe, and Duke
Ellington. These icons, along with other significant artists like bluesman Bobby Parker,
singers Shirley Horn and Roberta Flack, jazz masters Buck Hill and Butch Warren, and 2
Chuck Brown, the creator of Go-Go music, reflect the deep cultural impact D.C. has had on
the music world. Despite this, many of the city’s great musicians have not always received
the recognition they deserve, especially as the city has undergone significant changes.
Generational gaps have further complicated efforts to unite the distinct D.C. sound of the
past with the evolving music scene of today.
DCLM has worked to revitalize and preserve the unique sound of D.C.’s vibrant
history by hosting events in partnership with local venues and organizations such as the
Kennedy Center, Howard Theatre, Ben’s Chili Bowl, 202 Creates, bringing together
musicians across genres and generations. These performances not only celebrate the past
but also create new opportunities for collaboration and innovation. Through these efforts,
DCLM has served over 1,000 musicians in the D.C. area.
At the heart of DCLM’s mission is the desire to advocate for musicians and provide
them with the resources they need to sustain their careers. Musicians face severe
challenges, not only in gaining recognition but in securing the support they need to
continue performing. Legal representation, access to benefits, health services, housing
support, and professional advocacy are often overlooked needs in the artistic community.
As such, DCLM is focused on ensuring that these essential services are available to D.C.
musicians so they can continue to create and share their music.
DCLM’s impact extends to the residents, culture, and soul of Washington, D.C. By
preserving and promoting the District’s rich musical history, the organization fosters a
strong sense of community pride and identity. Its events, performances, and outreach
efforts help bring people together, promoting social and economic engagement while also
inspiring future generations of artists. As DCLM documents and shares the
accomplishments of both past and present musicians, it ensures that the history of D.C.’s
music scene is never forgotten, and that the city’s legacy of innovation and creativity
continues to thrive.
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Councilmember Brianne K. Nadeau
A BILL
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IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
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To designate the north-south public alley within Square 441, bounded by 7
th
Street, N.W., T 1
Street, N.W., Wiltberger Street, N.W., and S Street, N.W., in Ward 1, as DC Legendary 2
Musicians Way. 3
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BE IT ENACTED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this 5
act may be cited as the “DC Legendary Musicians Way Designation Act of 2024”. 6
Sec. 2. Pursuant to sections 401, 403, and 421 of the Street and Alley Closing and 7
Acquisition Procedures Act of 1982, effective March 10, 1983 (D.C. Law 4-201; D.C. Official 8
Code §§ 9-204.01, 9-204.03, and 9-204.21), the Council officially designates the north-south 9
public alley within Square 441 bounded by 7th Street, N.W., T Street, N.W., Wiltberger Street, 10
N.W.; and S Street, N.W., as “DC Legendary Musicians Way”. 11
Sec. 3. Transmittal. 12
The Council shall transmit a copy of this act, upon its effective date, to the Mayor, the 13
District Department of Transportation, and the Office of the Surveyor. 14
Sec. 4. Fiscal impact statement. 15
The Council adopts the fiscal impact statement in the committee report as the fiscal 16
impact statement required by section 4a of the General Legislative Procedures Act of 1975, 17
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approved October 16, 2006 (120 Stat. 2038; D.C. Official Code § 1-301.47a). 18
Sec. 5. Effective date. 19
This act shall take effect after approval by the Mayor (or in the event of veto by the 20
Mayor, action by the Council to override the veto), a 30-day period of congressional review as 21
provided in section 602(c)(1) of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, approved December 22
24, 1973 (87 Stat. 813; D.C. Official Code § 1-206.02(c)(1)), and publication in the District of 23
Columbia Register. 24