This wasn’t the first time I’ve been sandwiched between a passionate fanbase.
ASUU presented the Annual Grand Kerfuffle on April 18, with Aminé on the headlining bill. The American rapper and singer-songwriter took us back to the high school gym as people moshed with bubbles, sparkly cowboy hats and personalized T-shirts. This concert gave a similar sensation as doing wheelies in the parking lot with an overflowing number of passengers. And the crowd was, in fact, overflowing.
Along with the music itself, the event was sponsored by Celsius, TrüFrü and two food trucks usually stationed on campus: Olives Oasis and Sergio’s Pizza. There were also three artists stationed, spray-painting T-shirts with a line that formed all the way to the front of the stage. Wearing shirts that said, “Aminé or Anime?” and “I love Aminé,” everyone was stoked to rep their DIY swag for the renowned artist. Who wouldn’t?
It had snowed previously on Friday, so many attendees were worried it would be postponed or potentially cancelled. Some were convinced it would be moved indoors due to the frigid conditions. However, the show went on and may not have been the same without the consistent banter from Aminé and the incentive to keep moshing into each other.
“Caroline,” “BLACKJACK” and “REEL IT IN” were a few songs performed on the set list that made the crowd even rowdier, which I didn’t think was possible. A dance circle broke out halfway through, creating a commotion many weren’t ready for.
As soon as Aminé made it out onto the stage, crowd surfers were going and people were lifted up to the skies. It seemed to be just the right amount of craze for a show like this.
“You’re beautiful; I know,” were words heard for miles. After each song, Aminé shouted out to the crowd for a call and response and was incredibly successful at it. Later in the set, he even got the entire crowd to shout “F*ck BYU” which was a timely response as March Madness had come to an end. His interaction with the audience kept the energy high and the cold temperatures at bay. I’ll add that it was his birthday, so I’ll assure you the entire crowd roared into a commotion of “Happy Birthday” shouting at the top of their lungs. Happy 31st to Aminé.
This show was the perfect send-off for the final Friday Night Hype of the semester. As finals approach, it became a good break away from the piles of homework and study materials. You can find out more about Aminé here.
