Detroit’s $400,000 Hollywood-Inspired Sign Sparks Diss Tracks

Detroit’s new Hollywood-style sign has sparked controversy and ridicule among residents and even inspired a diss track from a local rapper. The city spent $400,000 on the sign, which was intended to showcase Detroit’s recovery as it hosts the NFL Draft.

The sign, which stands eight feet tall and sits on two-foot concrete blocks, was billed as “Hollywood-like” by city officials. However, Detroit rapper Gmac Cash expressed disappointment in his new single, “Detroit Sign,” questioning the cost and design of the sign.

Cash’s song quickly gained popularity on TikTok, with over 1 million views in just one day. The rapper, known for his comedic songs about Detroit landmarks, criticized the sign’s resemblance to “Times New Roman” and its placement near the hood.

Despite the backlash, Jessica Parker, the city’s deputy chief operations officer, defended the sign as part of planned infrastructure improvements ahead of the NFL Draft. Detroit, once plagued by financial troubles and the largest municipal bankruptcy in history, has made significant progress in recent years.

Mayor Mike Duggan hopes that hosting the NFL Draft will showcase Detroit’s transformation and reintroduce the city to the world. Moody’s recently upgraded the city’s municipal bonds to investment grade, reflecting Detroit’s improved financial situation.

While the sign may have sparked controversy, it has also generated buzz and attention for Detroit as it prepares to host a major event. Fairmont Sign Company, the company behind the sign’s installation, has yet to comment on the backlash.