So…aside from the heat and extreme anticipation of Lupe Fiaso and Talib Kweli’s performance, it is accurate to state that CSU Northridge’s Big Show 9, run by CSUN’s own student government S.P.A.C.E (Student Production and Campus Entertainment) was a HUGE success.

The event was a carnival and concert in one, consisting of inflatable bounce houses, ice cream trucks, and delicious food stations. (Btw…did you know that Sprinkle’s had a Cupcake truck now?? We sure didn’t! Joena and I were more than THRILLED to be greeted by that famous chocolate brown and hot pink logo. It’s not everyday that one can get a Sprinkle’s cupcake so readily on hand!)

With approximately 200 – 300 people present (student and non-student alike) one did not feel extremely crowded or claustrophobic, being that the event was held outside on the school’s Sierra Lawn/Quad. Also, being surrounded by a younger crowd full of trendy, vivacious, and active undergraduate students, it was no surprise that a LARGE dance circle was formed as miscellaneous individuals randomly jumped in to break dance, jerk, do the reject, or battle one another. Such events made Joena and I feel that we were back in high school…everyone was so care free. Ooh to be young again.

Aside from the fun and games, the music of course was on point! DJ Felli Fel was able to hype up the crowd, as the Far East Movement was more than stupendous! I was impressed to see how well they were able to connect with the crowd. Everyone went bananas though when they played their new hit “Girls on the dance floor” off their new album Animal. Kudos to the Far East Movement. They did their thing.

Lupe…ooh Lupe. What else is there to say about him other than the fact that he’s a GENIUS!! His music, his swag, his essence…enough said. The crowd went absolutely hysterical when he performed “Superstar” and of course “Kick, Push.” He also performed a few new songs off of his latest album L.A.S.E.R.S. – which stands for Love Always Shines Every-time Remember 2 Smile.

If you haven’t seen it yet, you can find the manifesto to  L.A.S.E.R.S. here.

I will be definitely be  buying an album when it comes out. It’s a new sound for him, but based off of the sneak peak we were given, I think, no…I KNOW you all will like it!

Now for the veteran Talib Kweli. When is he never great?? That was my second time seeing him in person and he always delivers. Funny thing is how simple he is. No gimmicks or fancy backup dancers necessary. Just him and his lyrics, and it’s ALWAYS enough. It  was Talib Kweli’s birthday that day too! Therefore, Lupe Fiasco led the crowd in a “Happy Birthday” song dedicated to the versed rapper.  Cute.

After a long day, we left the event feeling drained and exhausted; however, it was so worth it! Not often you get to see two talented artists like Talib Kweli and Lupe Fiasco perform on the same stage. Shout out to CSUN’s S.P.A.C.E for putting this all together!

Until next time!