Mayor ‘Mends Fences’ With Family of Music Legend [VIDEO]

Ben Riggs, Communications Manager for Mayor Adrian Perkins, talks with 101.7 / 710 KEEL's Robert J Wright and Erin McCarty about the recent move by the mayor apologize on behalf of the city for a racially charged incident involving music legend Sam Cooke.

Riggs tells KEEL listeners that Perkins reached out to Cooke's daughter, Carla, In addition to the apology issued via a press release, the Mayor also announced that Carla Cooke will be performing at this year's Let the Good Times Roll Festival on June 22. Carla will be performing some of Sam's classic hits. The Mayor will also address Carla and apologize to her and her family directly on stage.

Here's Mayor Perkins' official statement:

"Much has changed since 1963 and we have brave men and women like Sam Cooke to thank for that. They made incredible sacrifices in the struggle for freedom and equality. While we have come a long way, we are not perfect. We can do better. We must do better. I am issuing this apology for two reasons: First, the Cooke family deserves it. Second, because Sam Cooke’s legacy reminds us that change comes when people take action."