Richmond’s Rodney Brown: From rapper, author, barber to humanitarian of year

A Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. quote that Richmond resident Rodney “Alamo” Brown finds noteworthy sums up the spirit of today’s holiday and hints at how Brown has become so well-respected as someone who prolifically gives back to the community.

Brown, whose list of volunteer endeavors dates back more than a decade, is probably most well-known around the Bay Area for his annual Soulful Softball Sunday event, which over 10 years has united thousands of people for a summer game that aims to build bridges among groups that might never otherwise mingle and honors participants who’ve made noteworthy positive contributions.

On Tuesday the longtime Richmond resident will be celebrated as the county’s 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian of the Year at the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors meeting. Also representing Richmond will be Stephen Sharpe, the city’s poet laureate, owner of Afterword press and publisher of “Defining Love” and “No Whiskey, No Tears.”

Brown, 58, told Richmondside he didn’t know he had been nominated for the honor and thought the phone call he received about it was a prank call.

“I was surprised,” Brown said. “I was like, ‘Really?’ “

But once the news sunk in, he was appreciative.

“Overall I felt the sensation of love, I really did,” Brown said. “It was not like I was looking for the award. The awards are the byproduct of the labor. I was shocked and very grateful.”

The theme of the event is “Celebrating Our Shared Humanity,” and the honorees were chosen for passionate leadership, advocacy, and community service that has improved the lives of Contra Costa County residents and reflect the spirit of Dr. King’s work and achievements. Criteria include: Reflecting the humanitarian spirit of Dr. King’s vision to promote equality, peace, and justice for all people; and demonstrating leadership, commitment to community, and personal integrity.

“No work is insignificant, and we are fortunate to honor a Humanitarian and two Student Humanitarians of the Year, who bring to life Dr. King’s vision through their service to our community,” said Board Chair Supervisor Candace Andersen in a press release.

Sharpe said it’s “surreal” to reflect on his journey from watching the 1998 animated film, “Our Friend, Martin,” in his grandmother’s kitchen with his brothers to speaking about the impact of King at a public event.

“I’m proud of what previous generations have accomplished and honored to be both a part of their legacy and their tag team partner in continuing the fight, not just for inclusion, but equality and true belonging,” Sharpe said in an email to Richmondside.

Supervisor John Gioia, whose district includes Richmond, told Richmondside that he believes honoring community members for their contributions is important to inspire others to be of service.

“You can’t help but be inspired by (Brown’s) energy and passion, and to me that’s really important,” Gioia said. “He inspires people through his work. Communities are better because people are active and improving their communities.”

Brown was chosen because he has dedicated his life to service. He is described as a passionate community advocate and tireless worker for programs that promote family self-sufficiency and unity.

Brown’s youth around Black Panthers inspired charitable nature

Brown grew up near Cutting and Carlson boulevards, the son of Black Panther charter member Gracie Brown. He’s lived here 48 years.

He said growing up he was inspired by the Black Panther’s efforts to help people in need, for example establishing health care clinics and free breakfast programs.

“I wanted to emulate what I saw and that is what led me to get involved in the community,” Brown said.

Brown has been a man of many trades, including author, athlete and professional baseball scout. The Kennedy High School graduate began his professional career in 1987 as a barber, where he was known as the “the cut creator” by his clients, who appreciated his advice and problem-solving skills. 

He owned a rap record/label company and was No Limit Records Sons of Funk recording artist manager, the part of his career that earned him his nickname of “Disco Alamo.”

Brown was credited with organizing nine churches to serve 2.5 million meals for WCCUSD students at the beginning of the pandemic.

In the last nine years, he is also responsible for creating 95 free events for Richmond residents. In his professional life, Brown works as a mental health clinician with underserved youths and families in Richmond and also as a freelance sports writer recapping UC Berkeley football games for 247/Sports CBS Sports Digital Media. 

He currently works with youths and families for the Contra Costa Youth Service Bureau. He told Richmondside that while he thinks Richmond still has to overcome its past reputation, the best thing about being from here is the people.

“It feels like everyone is family here,” Brown said. “There’s a sense of love, family and caring.”