A new mural honoring legendary Temptations bass singer Melvin Franklin will be unveiled during a community block party later this month, celebrating the artist’s legacy and his lasting cultural impact.

According to a news release, the Mobile Arts Council, in partnership with the Franklin family, will host the event Saturday, May 23, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the International Longshoremen’s Association Local 1410, 509 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, across from Isom Clemon Civil Rights Memorial Park in Mobile.

The mural, designed and painted by local artist JD Swiger, was created with direct input from the Franklin family, who selected Swiger for the project. Organizers say the artwork reflects Franklin’s influence on generations of musicians and serves as a visual tribute to his role in shaping the signature sound of The Temptations, one of Motown’s most iconic groups.

Franklin, known for his deep bass voice, helped define hits such as “My Girl” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” contributing to the group’s global success and enduring popularity. The mural aims to highlight not only his musical achievements but also his broader cultural significance.

The unveiling will take place during a family-friendly block party designed to bring the community together through art and shared history. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the mural and celebrate the collaborative effort behind its creation.

“This project represents the intersection of art, heritage, and community,” Angela Montgomery, executive director of the Mobile Arts Council, said in the release. “We are honored to work alongside the Franklin family to celebrate Melvin Franklin’s legacy in a meaningful and lasting way.”