Chubby Checker Honored In Wildwood
WILDWOOD, N.J., (CBS) -- A mural honoring music legend Chubby Checker was unveiled Monday in Wildwood, New Jersey.
Checker, aka Ernest Evans, attended the dedication of the mural, located at the 3700 block of Pacific Avenue.
The Wildwoods' third Icon Wall Mural honors Checker and commemorates the 55th anniversary of his hit song and dance 'The Twist.'
Officials say 'The Twist' was performed for the very first time live in the Wildwoods at the old 60's hot-spot, the Rainbow Club, located just a block from where the mural is now displayed.
Just weeks later, on August 6, 1960, the song became a national sensation after Checker performed it on Dick Clark's American Bandstand.
"We could not think of a better artist for the third Icon Wall Mural than Chubby Checker – the man, who gave birth to 'The Twist' and performed it right here in the Wildwoods, forever changing music for future generations," said John Siciliano, executive director for the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority in a news release.
Susan Daly, owner and primary artist of Masters Mural Studio in South Jersey, was selected as the artist for the mural.
Daly was also the artist for the mural of Bill Haley and the Comets. A third mural, located along the boardwalk, honors South Philadelphia native Bobby Rydell.
Officials say the Icon Wall Murals feature key individuals or one-of-a-kind treasures that have significantly contributed to Wildwoods' history and culture.
