Kevin Randolph, a 61-year-old rollerblader, is a beloved fixture on the Atlanta BeltLine, where his infectious positivity brightens the day for both locals and visitors.
Often spotted with his iconic red Beats headphones and a captivating smile, Randolph engages with passersby by offering high fives and singing pop hits like “Party in the U.S.A.”
His approachable demeanor has made him a sought-after figure on the multi-use trail, as more people have begun to recognize him for the joy he spreads.
Not long ago, a man stopped in his tracks to acknowledge Randolph, exclaiming, “You’re TikTok Kevin. You’re a legend.”
Known as “BeltLine Kevin,” Randolph has become a symbol of positivity in Atlanta, even earning a mural depicting him on the Eastside Trail near Old Fourth Ward.
Artist Matthew Jerome Simpson created the mural, which portrays Randolph with purple rollerblades and a broad smile.
“I couldn’t believe it. I thought that was awesome. You know, I’m like, why me?” he expressed, reflecting on the honor of being immortalized in art.
Randolph’s rise to fame on social media took him by surprise, as he never intended to become a local celebrity.
Initially, he began engaging with the community simply to promote unity among people enjoying the outdoors.
Things changed when a TikTok video by barber and podcast host @VicBlends went viral in early 2024, showcasing Randolph’s joyful spirit and solidifying his status among younger audiences.
Originally from Westside Chicago, Randolph had a different trajectory in life before he found joy on the BeltLine.
He prioritized his education, focusing on chemistry and avoiding negative influences in his neighborhood.
After high school, with limited options due to financial constraints, he decided to join the Navy.
Once he left the military, he pursued a teaching career in Metro Atlanta, where he instructed middle schoolers in English and Spanish, as well as math and computers.
Despite his entertaining persona on the BeltLine, many are unaware of his extensive educational background.
Randolph holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science, a master’s degree in math, and a real estate license.
He reflects, “Most people don’t know I’m intelligent. They just think I’m out here singing ‘Party in the U.S.A.’”
Randolph is also fluent in Spanish and knows a fair amount of German, showcasing his diverse skill set that most people never associate with him.
Entertainment has always played a significant role in his life.
In the ’90s, he sang in a gay men’s choir, participated in gymnastics, and ran half-marathons until arthritis necessitated a switch to rollerblading.
Now a retiree, he glides along the BeltLine for hours, with his energy seemingly boundless as he interacts with others.
Randolph’s unconditional happiness stems from gratitude for life and the joy of connecting with people.
He states, “I’ve always been a performer, and it makes me happy to see other people happy. I don’t want to see other people miserable.”
His positive outlook was shaped by a near-fatal illness in 2007, which profoundly impacted his view on life.
“I’m just happy to be here. I’m thankful that God has me still here and able to greet people,” he shares, recognizing that everyone faces their own struggles.
Randolph expresses his desire to inspire change and foster unity among people, asserting that the new mural will help amplify his message of joy.
“Everybody wants to feel needed. My whole life, I knew I was different, and it doesn’t bother me, because I’ve never wanted to be like everybody else. I’ve always been unique,” he emphasized, reflecting on his journey of self-acceptance and the positive impact he hopes to make.
BeltLine Kevin remains a beacon of light on the trail, reminding people that even small gestures of kindness can significantly brighten someone’s day.
image source from：theatlantavoice
