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Home > Atlanta Music Scene > Archives > 2008 > November > 07 > Entry
Shakir Stewart’s Public Farewell
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
(The cover of the program, with Stewart’s daughter Micaela and son Sebastian)
(The back page)
Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin sent her “sincere and heartfelt condolences” to his family.
Morehouse College offered its King’s Chapel for the 1996 graduate’s service.
And Atlanta’s Grammy-wining R&B singer-songwriter Ne-Yo performedthe tear-jerker “It’s So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday” in tribute.
But what probably resonated the most about the public memorial for Atlanta music executive Shakir Stewart Friday afternoon were the personal memories shared by those within his industry, who knew and loved the 34-year-old.
The chapel of artists (LL Cool J, Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, Chrisette Michele), politicians (Atlanta City Councilman Ceasar Mitchell, and fellow mayoral candidate, state Sen. Kasim Reed), fellow executives (Island Def Jam’s Steve Bartels and Karen Kwak) and industry tastemakers (MTV’s Fonzworth Bentley, BET’s Kenny Burns, DJ Toomp, DJ Don Cannon, Big Oomp, Isaac Hayes III) laughed along with Christopher Hicks as he imitated his friend “Shake’s” signature cool whisper from the podium. And when Shawn “Pecas” Costner recalled that the highlight of Island Def Jam Music Group’s annual Christmas party was what the executive vice president of Def Jam Recordings would wear.
“Was that a red velvet blazer?” Costner asked out loud. “With fur?!”
The crowd stood on its feet, arms raised, shouting “Hallelujah!” as Ted Lucas took on the role of powerful preacher, shouting “Thank you Lord!” at the podium, off the stage and out the chapel door.
And sobs could be heard throughout the sanctuary as a video tribute played depicting Stewart the child (as Michael Jackson’s “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough” played); the Morehouse Man (to the tune of Prince’s “Purple Rain”); the partner and father (to Maxwell and Ginuwine ballads) and finally “Shakir Stewart —The Man” (with music from Rick Ross and Young Jeezy, whom Stewart signed to record deals).
“Remember Shakir for what you know him to be,” Hicks said. “And Shake would have wanted us to know this: That we’ve got to have some balance.”
Stewart was found dead at his Marietta home last Saturday of an apparent suicide. A private funeral service and burial was held Thursday.
Were you in attendance Friday or at any of Stewart’s other services? And if so, what stood out to you about the tributes and/or Stewart?
Comments
By M. Mota
November 9, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
I personally didn’t know Shakir, but heard/read about his many accomplishments; it truly saddened me that this beautiful soul is no longer here on earth! Seeing his two beautiful children (now fatherless) in that picture brings tears to my eyes. I’ve read the newspapers, I’ve read the blogs, and I can’t help but wonder why! Why would he choose to leave his family soo soon? Was someone threatening him or his family? Although I am in no position to judge, I’m saddened that he is no longer here. I pray for them during this difficult time, but I especially pray for little Micaela and Sebastian. My heart goes out to all that shared their lives with him, may he rest in peace!
By Jazmin
November 9, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this
I went to the memorial and it gave a since of closure. It made me realize that Shake was a family man and a man with a great spirit and drive. He is and will always be my inspiration and his passing taught me to live your life…and it was also something shake said to me in the month of his passing so even though he could no longer go on with his, I will live mine to the fullest bc Shake told me too….Live Your Life, you only get one so live it to the fullest….Shake RIP
By Ole Skool Radioman
November 10, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
Shake and I were tight back in his days at Laface. We kept going back and forth about what was talent and then what was talented. A good man and a good brother. the way his face was scrunch up when the track was flat nasty or how his eyes rolled when it was NOT a hit. We ran into each other occasionally, always a good word. He will be missed. Rest Brotha. Whatever it was, didn’t measure up to you.
By Remember
November 10, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
I was there, and to see those who came out almost fill up King Chapel is a testament to the man. The pictures inside the cover shown above touched everyone. Ted Lucas had the most powerful testament of all! Pray and pray often; for your blessings as well as your failures. Pray. R.I.P Shake.
By D (Raider Nation)
November 10, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
Big homie I cant cry because today I am still so confused and in total disbelief. We just partied at the BET awards now this, I cant digest it may God hold your family close and may your kids grow to know who and what there daddy stood for.(the town needs you) I love you Shake (PRAY)