Organized by Houston rapper Trae The Truth, this year’s third annual Trae Day proved to be a tremendous showcase of love and support. Trae Day is a city-wide effort of the urban community to provide inner-city kids with back-to-school supplies. Held at Northwest Mall, the free event featured a Ferris wheel, vaccinations and a concert.
“It was really a blessing to be able to do the event again for the kids,” said Trae, who kids often refer to as ‘the Santa Claus of the streets.’
It’s been a rough year for Trae. He was in an intense lawsuit against media machine Radio One requesting them to lift the ban of his music from their airways. Trae Day was a chance for him to get back to his favorite focus of the children.
With a scan of the audience, it was easy to see an outpouring of patronage coming from his fans and the children who benefited. A number of artist volunteered their time to support the event: Young Money artist Gudda Gudda, Jae Millz, Lil Twist and Lil Chuckee—Yo Gotti, Young Buck, Gorilla Zoe, Jody Breeze and Lupe Fiasco—NBA All-Star Stephen Jackson, Brandi Garcia and Big Pokey.
“This means everything. Trae is a real dude and I think what he’s doing is something real positive for not only the city but the state of Texas, as well,” said long-time friend Young Buck of G-Unit.
“I always support the homie Trae. He does a lot for the community, so whatever he needs me here for, I’m out here rain, sleet or snow,” Gudda said.
Radio personality Brandi Garcia, who was recently fired from Radio One for spinning a Trae track, came to show her support.
“It’s been nice to see that people really do care and support a good person,” Garcia said.
Troublesum, a member of Trae’s ABN Gang, gave a hand by rocking the crowd.
“He is one of my closest friends. He does so much for the kids and community and has a really big heart,” said Troublesum, who’s stuck by Trae’s side throughout the ordeal and was elated to see Trae Day come together again.
Despite his situation, giving back to his hometown remains priority. And for this, Trae The Truth will stand a hometown favorite.
“I love this city, man,” he said. “I even named my son after it.” —callye peyrovi
