“Wind me up, Chuck,” was a common refrain heard in Ward 5 this morning, as city officials unveiled Chuck Brown Memorial Park on what would have been the Godfather of Go-Go’s 78th birthday.

“It’s not raining out here, y’all,” Mayor Vince Gray told the soggy but enthusiastic crowd. “There’s no way that we would tolerate rain today. In fact, everyone’s empowered to call it liquid sunshine today.”

While the day was one of celebration, Gray noted the challenges in getting the park built, including objections from neighbors over noise from a proposed amphitheater: “I live just 72 miles from here and I’m .” He later noted that some public meetings “were not pleasant.” The park’s creation was established by legislation proposed by the mayor and approved by the Council.

A section of Langdon Park is now dedicated to Brown. An abstract art installation created by local sculptor Jackie Braitman stands near the park’s entrance, while a retaining wall facing the playground features 10 moments and images from Brown’s life. Colorful instruments for children were installed near the playground.

Denise Davis, a Ward 7 resident at the unveiling, said the park is “long overdue,” noting his many contributions: “He did a lot with the youth, a lot of programs.”

Davis said she was a “little disappointed” that the amphitheater wasn’t built, but she understood the concerns. “His shows were always mature and sexy,” Graves said of Brown’s performances, adding that he never tolerated bad behavior. “Chuck stopped the show.

“It’s a long time coming,” she said of the park.