On Valentine’s Day, Blue Hawk Records (BHR) and Black Student Union (BSU) collaborated for a “Classroom Concert” from 3-5PM. Chelsea Lagotta, Michael Anthony Rocks, Aidan Cole, Evan Schuett, Azure Kai, and Samantha Spano sang about love and heartbreak.
Amani Adelekan, Vice President of BSU and BHR was the one who made the event come together. Last year, alumni Asad Whitehead organized two classroom concerts for the year, a Halloween and Holiday themed event that took place, literally, in a classroom in Plangere. Adelekan continued his legacy and was able to use her connections in both clubs to honor both. She chose the location and setlist, bringing her own directorial vision.
Lagotta sang three songs, one of which was an original song. Her choice of songs were slow and sweet, and her original song definitely matched that vibe, strumming her acoustic guitar. She said she was nervous as it was her first time writing and performing her own music, as well as opening, but sure enough, she delivered.
Michael Anthony Rocks (MAR) followed her performance. He definitely brought his own unique flavor to the performance, starting with an original song he wrote his sophomore year of high school called “Natural.” He rapped and sang over a lively melody about a girl he supposedly had a crush on at the time. The song was catchy and his confidence delivered, even some people in the crowd got up and started dancing.
MAR then performed “The Talking Stage,” another original song written this past September featured in BHR’s compilation album “Signature Edition.” He joked with the crowd about how many of us are all too familiar with this stage, and the song had a soft rock feel performed on guitar. He finished his set with “Lights Down Low,” where he hit the highest of high notes. All in all, an impressive performance with a variety of genres and confidence which connected him to the audience.
Following MAR was Aidan Cole, who stuck with sweet, slow melodies on guitar. He sang, “Love Comes to Everyone,” by George Harrison”, “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” by Billie Eilish, and “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd. I thought his performance was solid. He whistled for part of “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” which I thought was a fun twist.
Following Davis was Azure Kai, whose voice was unique and impressive. Using just karaoke on the internet, she sang “Babe” by Styx, “More Than Words” by Extreme, and “Night Changes” by One Direction. She chose primarily R&B slower beats, which was a nice switch up from the other genres. Kai’s voice was very strong. “Night Changes” was a particularly good choice because it’s a familiar favorite throwback, and the crowd hummed along. She seems to have perfected the androgynous sound.
Evan Schuett played next, and chose the songs, “Far, Far Away” by Wilco, and “Old Friends” by Pinegrove. He introduced a country element. The event definitely incorporated several genres and kept it interesting. He had a twangy and deep voice, which stayed faithful to the country genre.
Closing the show was Samantha Spano, who delivered a very strong performance. She sang “Hate My Heart” by Carrie Underwood, a new and untitled song, and “Whiskey Don’t Work Anymore” by Travis Tritt. Her voice and guitar skills speak for themselves and are in a league of their own. You could tell how her emotions were being poured through the songs, especially in her newest piece. But I won’t spoil her artistry too much for those longing to see the coastal cowgirl.
In the end, it was a very fun event to attend, BSU provided food, beverages, and plushies. The location was great, and so comfortable for all the students. It was a pretty lowkey vibe but that was what made it all the more intimate. I can’t think of a better way to spend a Friday evening than listening to some of my talented peers do what they do best. I added more than a few songs to my own personal library.
