Music veterans Grandmaster Melle Mel and Afrika Bambaataa are backing a proposal to officially recognize the Bronx as the birthplace of hip-hop with its own historical center at the Kingsbridge Armory. They have a battle with Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., who favors a multiple ice rink idea. An ice rink instead of showing respect to a genre a music that has influenced cultures globally, really?
Mel and Bambaataa were among a group of campaigners hoping to sway the politicians to support the museum during a meeting in the Big Apple on Thursday.
Mel explains himself saying, the Bronx has an identity that should be honored and businesses new to the area should reflect the communities needs.
Everyone will be waiting to see if the plans of Diaz, Jr. support to the Kingsbridge National Ice Center, will happen. So far he is refusing to budge, insisting the rink will be good business for the local economy.
Officials at the New York City Economic Development Corporation, which controls the vacant venue, will choose a proposal to present to the local council later this year.
