NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — New York City kicked off its pandemic recovery celebration with two of five free concerts earlier this week — both of which saw Mayor Bill de Blasio make guest appearances.
Orchard Beach in the Bronx hosted the first "NYC Homecoming Week" concert on Monday, featuring performances by artists including Slick Rick, Remy Ma and KRS-One.
Mayor Bill de Blasio delivers remarks at the NYC Homecoming: Bronx concert at Orchard Beach. Monday, August 16, 2021.Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office
Mayor Bill de Blasio delivers remarks at the NYC Homecoming: Bronx concert at Orchard Beach. Monday, August 16, 2021.Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office
Mayor Bill de Blasio delivers remarks at the NYC Homecoming: Bronx concert at Orchard Beach. Monday, August 16, 2021.Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office
Mayor Bill de Blasio delivers remarks at the NYC Homecoming: Bronx concert at Orchard Beach. Monday, August 16, 2021.Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office
At some point during the event, Slick Rick, who hails from the Bronx, placed his own chain around de Blasio's neck, a video posted to the mayor's Twitter account shows.
"Thank you to Slick Rick @therulernyc for the greatest honor of my career," de Blasio wrote.
The second concert was held at Richmond County Bank Ballpark on Staten Island on Tuesday, with headliners Raekwon and Ghost Face Killah of the Wu-Tang Clan. Crystal Waters, Force MDs and Rob Base were among the other performers.
NYC Homecoming Concert on Staten Island on Tuesday, August 17, 2021.Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office
NYC Homecoming Concert on Staten Island on Tuesday, August 17, 2021.Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office
Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office
NYC Homecoming Concert on Staten Island on Tuesday, August 17, 2021.Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office
"Homecoming" week will also see concerts at the Brooklyn Army Terminal on Thursday; at Forest Hills Stadium on Friday; and in Central Park on Saturday.
