The Walls That Whisper: How a Houston Bar’s Murals Are Redefining Local Pride
There’s something about walking into a bar and being greeted by walls that tell a story. Not just any story, but one that pulses with the rhythm of a city’s soul. That’s exactly what By The Wayside, a new cocktail bar in Houston’s Second Ward, has achieved with its DJ Screw murals. But this isn’t just about art—it’s about identity, legacy, and the way a community chooses to celebrate itself.
A Mural, a Movement, and a Man
DJ Screw, the late Houston hip-hop pioneer, is more than a musician; he’s a symbol of the city’s cultural resilience. His slow, syrupy beats, known as 'chopped and screwed,' didn’t just redefine music—they became the soundtrack of a generation. What makes this particularly fascinating is how his legacy is being reinterpreted today. The murals at By The Wayside aren’t just tributes; they’re statements. One depicts Screw in a Houston Texans jersey, a detail that I find especially interesting. It’s a fusion of two Houston icons, blending sports and music in a way that feels both natural and bold.
Personally, I think this speaks to something deeper: the way cities use art to assert their identity. DJ Screw’s association with 713 Day—an unofficial holiday celebrating Houston’s original area code—isn’t just coincidental. It’s a deliberate nod to the city’s hip-hop roots, a genre that has long been the voice of the marginalized. What many people don’t realize is that 713 Day isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about reclaiming a narrative that’s often overlooked in mainstream culture.
The Art of Hometown Pride
The murals themselves are a masterclass in collaboration. Created by local artists Donkeeboy, Gabriel Escobedo, SpaceCityArtKreations, and w3r3on3, they’re a testament to Houston’s vibrant art scene. But what this really suggests is that hometown pride isn’t just about loving where you’re from—it’s about actively shaping its future. Bar co-owner Samantha Navarre put it perfectly when she said, ‘We’re all very tight and we love each other.’ That sense of community is palpable, and it’s what makes these murals more than just decorations.
From my perspective, this is where the true magic lies. The murals aren’t just for show; they’re an invitation. An invitation to stop, reflect, and connect. Whether you’re a lifelong Houstonian or just passing through, these walls whisper stories of resilience, creativity, and unity.
Beyond the Paint: The Broader Implications
If you take a step back and think about it, this trend of bars and businesses becoming cultural hubs is part of a larger shift. In an age where digital experiences dominate, physical spaces are reclaiming their role as community anchors. By The Wayside isn’t just serving cocktails; it’s serving culture. And in doing so, it’s redefining what a bar can be.
One thing that immediately stands out is the timing. The murals were completed in late June, just ahead of 713 Day, which falls on July 13. This isn’t just clever marketing—it’s strategic storytelling. By aligning with local traditions, the bar isn’t just participating in the culture; it’s becoming a part of it.
The Future of Local Celebrations
This raises a deeper question: What does it mean to celebrate a city in 2024? Is it enough to throw a party, or does it require something more intentional? I believe it’s the latter. The DJ Screw murals are a blueprint for how businesses can honor their roots while pushing boundaries. They’re a reminder that culture isn’t static—it evolves, and we have a responsibility to carry it forward.
In my opinion, this is just the beginning. As cities grapple with gentrification, globalization, and the erosion of local identity, initiatives like these will become increasingly important. They’re not just preserving history; they’re creating it.
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on By The Wayside’s murals, I’m struck by their simplicity and their depth. They’re a celebration of DJ Screw, yes, but they’re also a celebration of Houston itself—its grit, its creativity, its unapologetic pride. What makes this particularly fascinating is how they manage to be both deeply personal and universally relatable.
If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: culture isn’t something you consume; it’s something you participate in. And sometimes, all it takes is a few murals to remind us of that. So, the next time you’re in Houston, stop by By The Wayside. Take a picture with the murals, sip a 713 Day cocktail, and listen closely. Those walls have a story to tell—and it’s one worth hearing.
