“The compelling story of one of our nation’s most captivating young political leaders. . . . A voice from the new new South.”

— Dr. Imani Perry, National Book Award-winning author of South to America: A Journey Below the Mason-Dixon to Understand the Soul of a Nation

Today’s Birmingham—led by Mayor Randall Woodfin—is a phoenix rising from the ashes of systemic racism and white flight. This first Southern city to pluck the feathers off Jim Crow, where peaceful protestors endured attacks by police dogs and flesh-tearing high-pressure water hoses, and where children locked arms and sang “We Shall Overcome,” is a living, breathing redemption story.

In Son of Birmingham, Woodfin draws upon the street wisdom of Southern rap music; the power of family, friends, and faith; his education at the historically Black Morehouse College; and the daily joys and struggles of his Birmingham people to preach the progress every corner of our nation clamors for right now—servant leadership and responsive government for equitable, prosperous cities where everyone can reach their full potential.

Son of Birmingham

national release on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.

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Being from the South, I know the power of legacy and tradition. Mayor Randall Woodfin embodies that. He’s taken on challenges that many shy away from, pushing Birmingham toward a brighter future with grit and style. Seeing someone like Randall step up for the community is what keeps the South’s spirit alive—he’s not just about talk, he’s about change. Son of Birmingham is a love letter to Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, and I’m honored that Mayor Woodfin accredits such significant inspiration to Outkast.”

Antwan “Big Boi” Patton, Grammy-winning member of Outkast.”

“Woodfin’s election as mayor of Birmingham heralded a transformation in the story of the region. In this book, with deep insight, integrity, and incisive prose, he speaks to the challenges of 21st century America and offers a clear-eyed assessment of how we must step into our collective future.”

Dr. Imani Perry, National Book Award Winner and New York Times bestselling author of South to America: A Journey Below the Mason-Dixon to Understand the Soul of a Nation


About Randall

Randall Woodfin was born in Birmingham, Alabama, and after four years in Atlanta earning his degree from Morehouse College, has lived in Birmingham ever since. He worked at City Hall (in jobs for both the Mayor and the City Council) and for the Jefferson County Committee on Economic Opportunity, attended Cumberland School of Law at Samford University and, after obtaining his law degree, accepted a job in the City of Birmingham Law Department. As an assistant city attorney, he also became an organizer, working on campaigns at the local, state, and federal level. After serving on the Birmingham Board of Education, he ran for mayor in 2016 with endorsements from President Joe Biden, Senators Bernie Sanders and Cory Booker, and Stacey Abrams. Woodfin won an upset victory in a runoff in 2017 and earned a featured speaker role at the 2020 Democratic National Convention. He is seeking his third term in 2025.

About Edward

Edward T. Bowser is an award-winning journalist, founder of the music and pop culture website SoulInStereo.com, and currently serves as the Deputy Director of Communications for the City of Birmingham Mayor’s Office, where he helps shape the city’s voice and vision.

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