On Saturday, November 25, 2023, the citizens of McComb turned out and turned up for one of their own. A crowd gathered on Main Street “Broadway” in the heart of downtown to pay high homage to a Grammy-nominated bluesman that grew up among them. That day, McComb, Mississippi, unveiled a statue of native son Castro Coleman, who is famously known as known as Mr. Sipp, “The Mississippi Blues Child.”

Even though it was a little chilly, the crowd gathered early for the 11:00 a.m. unveiling of the statue and lingered long after the drape was pulled down to admire the life-like statue. They were elated to see and talk to Castro, sharing laughter and a few childhood stories that have been included in many of the Blues songs that have brought notoriety to a small town in South Mississippi.

Coleman said, “I never dreamed that I would have a statue in the town where I grew up. I’m so honored that I’m able to get my flowers while I live. This is the highlight of my career, even if I do get a Grammy, it can’t compare to this statue. This will be something for my children and their children to see and know that the Lord rewards us who are diligent…for we know not the plans He has for us.” 

Coleman was joined by his children and the newest edition of the family, his granddaughter. He was also accompanied by his immediate family members which dredged up a reminiscence of his famous song lyric that talks about four children and a dog! The entire Coleman clan, kinfolks, and friends lined the street and crowded around the statue to take pictures with Coleman to mark the historic monument that will forever tell generations and the world that the Blues will never die because of talented musicians like Castro Coleman.