City Honors P-Lo with a Key to the City

On Wednesday, May 7, 2025—his 34th birthday—the City of Pinole honored Paulo Rodriguez, professionally known as P-Lo, with the Key to the City during a spirited ceremony held at the Pinole Valley High School theater. The event, attended by students, community members, and members of Pinole City Council: Mayor Cameron Sasai and Council Member Devin T. Murphy, was a celebration of P-Lo’s deep roots in Pinole and his far-reaching influence as a multi-platinum artist and community advocate.

In lieu of the celebration, the Pinole City Council also officially declared May 7 as “P-Lo Day” with a proclamation adopted during the City Council meeting on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. The proclamation recognizes P-Lo’s contributions to the cultural identity of Pinole and his consistent efforts to give back to the community that helped shape his journey.

Mayor Cameron Sasai, who presented the Key to the City, praised P-Lo as “a true hometown hero, for all of us, whose story reflects the power of staying grounded, giving back to our community, and representing your Pinole roots with pride.” The Key to the City is a special honor that reflects the city’s appreciation for individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the community.

P-Lo was raised in Pinole and graduated from Pinole Valley High School. His music career began locally and has grown to national acclaim. As a founding member of the HBK Gang and a producer and artist behind hits by artists like Wiz Khalifa, Yo Gotti, and Flo Rida, P-Lo has become a major voice in California hip-hop. His regional classics such as “Put Me On Somethin’” and “Same Squad” are widely recognized anthems of Bay Area culture.

Equally impactful offstage, P-Lo is a vocal advocate for youth empowerment and civic engagement. He has partnered with organizations including United Playaz, Urban Sprouts, and the Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce, and regularly participates in school visits, cultural campaigns, and local initiatives. His efforts have helped foster increased youth involvement and cultural pride throughout the region.

P-Lo expressed sincere appreciation for the award. “To be back here where it all started—and to be recognized in this way—is a great honor. I’m proud to call Pinole home.”

The proclamation and ceremony underscore the City of Pinole’s commitment to celebrating local success stories and encouraging the next generation to dream big while staying true to their roots.