Lyrics, Brushes, and 88 Keys

By Sathiyyah Parks-Barrett

It seems like school just began, and we're already up to our necks in work. Everyone has figured out their routines and what will work for them this semester. By this time of the year, we have made decisions about the organizations we will join, and how much time we will devote to them. We have probably complained 50 or more times already about that weird thing our roommate does while she sleeps.  Just when things begin to get crazy, we are reminded that homecoming is just around the corner...What a relief!

I am always excited when it it homecoming week. I go to just about every event, from coronation to the step show. There are a lot of opportunities for fun times, networking, reuniting and making lasting memories. There is also a lot of entertainment! Everyone is familiar with the homecoming concert, step show, and comedy show, which are all great in their own ways. However, my favorite event for students is the yard fest. 

Yard fest is an annual homecoming music festival, which takes place in front of Holmes Hall. While I have been a student at BSU, it has been the norm to have a performance by a surprise guest (last year's performance was by Keri Hilson) and performances by local artists. Laquitta Fletcher, student activities coordinator, had this to say about the yard fest: "Its performances [will be] by local artists, some of which are Bowie students. The performances include a little poetry, a bit of jazz, and singers/rappers. We tried to do a little bit of everything this year. There were 71 people who auditioned and these are performances but only 16 made it."  

I am a big fan of one of the performers, Dani. During my freshman year, I was invited to join her facebook group. From that webpage, I found the link to her myspace music page. Ever since hearing these songs, I have been hooked. Although I don't get myspace much anymore, her song, "Higher" is on my profile playlist. I am excited to see her perform at this year's yard fest. 

I am compelled to inspire you to be encouraging to all of the performers you will see. It takes a lot for someone to go before their peers and share their art with them. As college students, there should not be any immaturity. Embrace these performers, so that one day if they make it professionally, they will remember Bowie State University. Even if you're not really feeling the performance, let them finish their performance. Do not boo them off the stage! People work extremely hard to perfect their art, at least let them finish.

In other homecoming entertainment news, there is a twist to our usual concert venue. Our concert will be taking place at Six Flags America! I hope to see everyone there! Homecoming will be very fun and eventful, make sure you get the most out of it!