WHEREAS, Nestor Rodriguez, also known as Nasty Nes, was a pioneering DJ, radio personality, and tireless music advocate who helped lay the foundation for Hip Hop in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest; and
WHEREAS, Nes began his radio career in 1980 at 1250 AM KKFX (KFOX), and in 1981 launched FreshTracks, the first commercial radio show to broadcast Hip Hop west of the Mississippi River; and
WHEREAS, Nes was the original DJ for the Emerald Street Boys, whose early work marked the release of Seattle’s first Hip Hop record and helped shape the city’s growing scene; and
WHEREAS, he introduced countless Hip Hop artists to Seattle, promoting talent from labels like Loud, Death Row, Bad Boy, Priority Records; and
WHEREAS, in 1985, Nes co-founded NastyMix Records with Sheila Locke and Sir Mix-A-Lot, Seattle’s first Hip Hop record label, which amplified local artists and helped launch Sir Mix-A-Lot to national and international acclaim; and
WHEREAS, Nes continued to elevate Hip Hop through shows like Rap Attack on KCMU and Hotmix on KUBE, and later founded Rap Attack Lives, a coalition that helped expose emerging artists to wider audiences; and
WHEREAS, widely regarded as the Godfather of Seattle Hip Hop, Nasty Nes leaves behind a lasting legacy of innovation, mentorship, and advocacy for artists and culture in the region; and
WHEREAS, the City of Seattle honors the extraordinary life and work of Nestor Rodriguez, whose passion and vision forever changed the cultural landscape of our city and whose memory continues to inspire generations.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BRUCE A. HARREL, MAYOR OF SEATTLE, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM MAY 5, 2025 TO BE
NASTY NES RODRIGUEZ DAY
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