Richmond BLK History | T R A I L B L A Z E R S
Discover the rich tapestry of Black trailblazers who have shaped the vibrant community of Richmond. Delve into their impactful contributions and inspiring stories as we celebrate the resilience, creativity, and legacy of those who have left an indelible mark on the Richmond Region.
August Moon
1865-2023
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."
As a devout Christian, he understood the importance of service, as demonstrated by his membership in the U.S. Navy, 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, leaving a lasting impact through his music, venues, and radio and television shows. He produced hits like "Seven Minutes of Funk" with The Whole Darn Family, one of hip-hop's most sampled songs.
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. Through his multifaceted endeavors, Moon left an indelible mark on not only the cultural landscape and social consciousness of his era but also on those who walk in his footsteps.
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.