North Carolina Proposes ‘Raise Up’ as State Hip-Hop Song

North Carolina, October 8, 2025

News Summary

Senate Bill 512 aims to designate Petey Pablo’s song ‘Raise Up’ as North Carolina’s official hip-hop song, reflecting the cultural significance of hip-hop in the state. Proposed by Senators Murdock, Smith, and Salvador, the bill highlights the anthem’s longstanding presence in North Carolina’s identity and its energetic lyrics that resonate with pride. This initiative is part of a nationwide celebration of hip-hop’s impact, coinciding with its 50th anniversary, and aims to honor local contributions to the music scene.

Raleigh, North Carolina – A new bill known as Senate Bill 512 has been introduced in the North Carolina Senate to designate Petey Pablo’s hit song “Raise Up” as the official state hip-hop song. Proposed by Democratic Senators Natalie S. Murdock, Kandie Smith, and DeAndrea Salvador, the legislation comes as part of a broader recognition of the cultural significance of hip-hop music in the state and its influence over generations.

“Raise Up,” which was released in August 2001, has gained acclaim as an anthem that embodies the pride and spirit of North Carolina. The song’s upbeat lyrics encourage listeners to “take your shirt off and twist it ’round your head like a helicopter,” and it has become a staple at sports events and celebrations across the state. If the bill is approved, “Raise Up” will join other official state symbols such as the dogwood flower and the cardinal bird, signifying its importance in North Carolina’s cultural landscape.

The timing of this proposal is significant, coinciding with the global celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary in 2023. The bill further acknowledges the vital role of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in propagating the genre and its social impact. This recognition thus aligns with a nationwide celebration of hip-hop culture and its origins.

Petey Pablo, who hails from Greenville, North Carolina, is set to be inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame in 2024, highlighting his contributions to the music scene. The artist has remained active, performing at various events—including the Lovin’ Life Music Fest in 2023—and is scheduled to return to the festival on May 3, 2025.

The initiative to honor “Raise Up” follows another notable legislative effort to name a wrestling hall of fame after Ric Flair, another pop culture icon from North Carolina. Both proposals reflect a growing trend in the state legislature to formally acknowledge cultural elements that resonate strongly with North Carolinians and foster a sense of pride in regional achievements.

As more states begin to recognize and celebrate their musical heritage, this bill represents North Carolina’s commitment to honoring its homegrown talent and the music that has affected many throughout its history. The legislation underscores a broader movement to acknowledge hip-hop as a vital art form that brings people together and tells the stories of communities.

Key Details of Senate Bill 512

• Proposed By: Senators Natalie S. Murdock, Kandie Smith, DeAndrea Salvador
• Song: “Raise Up” by Petey Pablo
• Release Date: August 2001
• Significance: Celebrated as an anthem for North Carolina
• Recognition: Possible official status as state hip-hop song
• Petey Pablo’s Background: Hailing from Greenville, North Carolina
• Induction: North Carolina Music Hall of Fame in 2024
• Upcoming Performance: Lovin’ Life Music Fest on May 3, 2025
• Related Legislation: Naming of a wrestling hall of fame after Ric Flair

Conclusion

The proposal to declare “Raise Up” as North Carolina’s official state hip-hop song emphasizes the importance of music in shaping the identity and culture of the state. With the impact of the song and the lasting legacy of Petey Pablo, the bill serves as a reminder of the power of music to unite communities and represent regional pride.

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Additional Resources

• Axios: NC Bill to Designate Official State Hip-Hop Song
• Wikipedia: Petey Pablo
• WCNC: Petey Pablo’s Raise Up as Official Hip-Hop Song
• Google Search: Petey Pablo
• Axios: Fly Dance Fitness Charlotte Hip-Hop Workout
• Google Scholar: Hip-Hop Culture North Carolina
• The Charlotte Post: Mavi Grows Hip-Hop Brand
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hip-Hop
• QC Nerve: Live Music in Charlotte
• Google News: Charlotte Events

Author: HERE Charlotte

The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.