Richmond BLK History | T R A I L B L A Z E R S
Welcome to the BLK Trailblazers page, where we celebrate the remarkable individuals who have left an enduring legacy in the Richmond community and beyond. This page showcases Black leaders' diverse voices and impactful contributions to Black history worldwide, from historical figures to contemporary influencers. As we continue to honor these trailblazers, we invite you to check back frequently for updates and new additions as we strive to highlight the stories of those who have shaped our past, present, and future.
August Moon
1937-2023
August Moon, born Alexander Randolph in Blackwell during the Great Depression, was a dedicated advocate for social justice and a cherished figure in the Southside community, affectionately known as the “Mayor of Hull Street.”
His commitment to service extended through various organizations, showcasing his devotion to uplifting his community through organizations such as Crusade for Voters, Hull Street Merchants Association, Rainbow Coalition, United Struggle Movement, and Stop The Violence Campaign.
Moon found success as an entrepreneur and entertainer. Under the alias "Mr. Wiggles," he made significant strides in the music industry, founding record labels and producing influential hits like "Seven Minutes of Funk" with The Whole Darn Family, one of the most sampled songs in hip-hop music.
His commitment to truth and advocacy extended to media platforms, where he hosted shows like "Tell It Like It Is," embodying a mantra of standing firm in principles.
Known by various monikers, Moon's multifaceted life was a testament to his vibrant spirit.
BIOGRAPHIes
ARTICLES
By any name, August Moon told it like it was
August Moon, a man of many names and vocations, dies at age 85
PLAYLIST
Yvonne Flair
1942-1999
Yvonne Fair, born Flora Yvonne Coleman on October 21, 1942, in Richmond, Virginia, was a soul singer renowned for her mid-1970s hit, ‘It Should Have Been Me’. Immersed in music from an early age, she collaborated with James Brown and the Chantels in the early 1960s, recording singles like ‘I Found You’.
Transitioning to Smash and Soul Records, Yvonne later signed with Motown Records in the early 1970s. Her collaboration with producer Norman Whitfield produced singles like ‘Love Ain't No Toy’ and ‘Funky Music Sho' 'Nuff Turns Me On’. In 1975, her debut Motown album, titled ’The Bitch Is Black’, featured the hit single ‘It Should Have Been Me’, which reached the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1976. Yvonne Fair, who was married to Sammy Strain of Little Anthony and the Imperials and The O'Jays, passed away on March 6, 1994, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the age of 51, from undisclosed causes. She left behind a musical legacy and two children, including Venisha Brown, daughter of James Brown. Fair was portrayed by Tika Sumpter in the 2014 James Brown biopic, Get on Up.