The legendary funk and R&B group, The Gap Band, chose their name as a direct tribute to three streets in the historic Greenwood district of Tulsa, Oklahoma: Greenwood, Archer, and Pine. This naming convention served a dual purpose, honoring the vibrant Black Wall Street and bringing attention to the devastating 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
The Roots in Tulsa's Black Wall Street
Growing up in Tulsa, the band members, including the Wilson brothers (Charlie, Ronnie, and Robert), decided to name their musical ensemble after these significant streets. The Greenwood District was once a thriving Black community, economically independent and self-sufficient, famously known as Black Wall Street. It was a beacon of Black entrepreneurial success and cultural richness in the early 20th century.
- Greenwood Avenue: The main thoroughfare of the district, bustling with businesses, churches, and homes.
- Archer Street: Another key artery contributing to the district's vibrant commerce.
- Pine Street: Part of the residential and commercial fabric of the community.
A Tribute to History and a Call for Awareness
By adopting the acronym "GAP" for their band name, the musicians aimed to:
- Honor Black Wall Street's Legacy: They wanted to celebrate the incredible achievements and resilience of the community that built and sustained Black Wall Street. It was a powerful nod to their heritage and a reminder of a prosperous past that was tragically destroyed.
- Raise Awareness of the Tulsa Race Massacre: The 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre saw a white mob attack the Greenwood District, resulting in widespread destruction of property and the deaths of hundreds of Black residents. By choosing a name intrinsically linked to this location, The Gap Band brought national and international attention to this largely suppressed historical event, ensuring it was not forgotten.
This deliberate choice transformed their band name into more than just an identifier; it became a symbol of remembrance, a statement of pride, and a call to acknowledge a significant, painful, yet important part of American history.
