BSA Open Mic Night lets students perform
Rappers, singers, slam poets and a guitarist broadcast their talents at the Black Student Association’s third annual Open Mic Night. The event took place at 8 p.m. on Oct. 22 in UIndy Hall A.
Open Mic Night’s primary purpose was to provide an environment in which artists could share their crafts without any inhibitions or the fear of being judged. The event was in an intimate setting, with lit candles at each table to create a calm environment.
Performers did not have to audition for the event, as BSA allowed anyone to sign up. The participants had to comply with only two rules: respect the mic and avoid profanity.
Freshman athletic training major Devon Brown attended the event and found Open Mic Night incredibly beneficial to artists around campus.
“Open Mic Night provides an open opportunity for students to just be free, showcasing their artistry to their peers, only to receive positive feedback, which is something that I think is extremely important,” Brown said.
Before an audience of approximately 250, the 12 artists performed either a rap, song or poetry. Criminal justice major William Brooks and mechanical engineering major Kyra Monroe, both juniors, hosted Open Mic Night. Four judges determined the first, second and third place winners for the event. The judging panel consisted of Indianapolis Student Government President DyNishia Miller, Warren Hall Resident Director Derrick Hicks, senior business major Daventry Burroughs and President of Student Organization of Latinos Jessica Agmon.
Among the performers were Lauren Rascoe, reading poetry; Carlynn Carter, also reading poetry; Anthony Jackson singing; Sigi Ferguson, singing; Sa’Vonn Cook rapping and Felicia Ridle reading poetry.
The winners of Open Mic Night were junior music major Michelle Valez, who won third place for playing guitar and performing a rendition of Amy Winehouse’s song “Valerie.” Junior accounting major Ramonica Dennis won second place for reading an original poem, and senior psychology major Joumeel McLaurine won first place for singing his original song “One Question.”
Sophomore social work major Alexis Fort enjoyed the performances and learned a thing or two about her peers that impressed her.
“This is one of my favorite times of the year, seeing people broadcast their talents, and being shocked by talents that you didn’t know people had,” Fort said. “It’s kind of better than Christmas.”
