Westside Gunn, the Buffalo-based rapper and entrepreneur, has donated $10,000 to help fund the funeral of a woman who was featured on the cover of his album “WWCD” (What Would Chine Gun Do) which was released in 2019. The woman, Dayanna Rodas, had died recently in an accident.
The album cover of “WWCD” features Rodas sitting on a staircase in a buffalo-themed outfit holding a rifle. Fans of Westside Gunn and followers of his Griselda Records crew quickly identified Rodas after photos of her were shared on social media following news of her passing.
Upon learning of the sad news, Westside Gunn quickly stepped up to support Rodas’ family. In addition to the $10,000 donation, he also shared a heartfelt Instagram post, expressing his sorrow over the loss of this young woman and encouraging others to support her family in any way they could.
Rodas’ death had shaken up her close-knit neighborhood and the Buffalo community. The vandalism that followed her death compelled local businesses to band together in a support effort of a young woman who was as much an unsuspecting victim of external forces as anyone can be.
The generous act by Westside Gunn was met with gratitude and appreciation from Rodas’s loved ones, and by extension, his fans giving back to the community that made his success possible. It shows that music culture can be much more than just about entertainment, but about building and supporting communities.
Several music industry peers have taken note of his generosity with many stating he has set a precedent in terms of how musicians can give back to their communities in tangible ways. By donating to fund the funeral of a woman he had drawn inspiration from, Westside Gunn has clearly demonstrated that he is dedicated to giving back, even when it means reaching beyond the music industry and celebrating the ordinary moments in life.