Memphis-born rapper GloRilla, whose real name is Gloria Woods, was honored with the key to the City of Memphis during the city’s 901 Day celebration on Beale Street. The Grammy-nominated artist, known for her deep roots in the Frayser neighborhood, received the award from Memphis Mayor Paul Young in front of a large, enthusiastic crowd on Sunday.
GloRilla, 25, shared the moment on stage with her friends and family and later posted about the experience on Instagram, writing, “Memphis made me, Frayser raised me.” The event, part of the city’s annual 901 Day festivities, also featured a brief performance by the rapper, much to the delight of her fans.
This recognition places GloRilla among a distinguished group of artists with ties to Memphis who have been similarly honored. Other recipients include her record label head, CMG CEO Yo Gotti, who was given the key to the city in 2017, and Canadian rap star Drake, who received a key to Shelby County in the summer of 2023, acknowledging his paternal family’s Memphis roots.
