First Experience with Illuminate
- Spin Plugz
- Sep 28, 2019
- 3 min read
Temple native artist Pat G invited me to an Illuminate showcase at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB) in Belton, Texas September 27th. UMHB is a four-year private school with diversity. Illuminate began with a mission to be the center where all cultures can come together and express themselves while “promoting and empowering musical artists of all genres.” This was their second event , they're planning a third Illuminate event in November. My friend Kayla and I decided attend and support Pat G and the performing line up. This blog is about the experience we had at Illuminate.
Follow Spin Plugz on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook (@SpinPlugz) to stay up-to-date on the latest blogs, playlists updates, and upcoming events!
Atmosphere
The night at Parker Academic Center was electric. The crowd (about 70 to 80 people) majority consisted of UMHB students while the minority were family and friends of artists. The crowd was diverse in ethnicity and gender, but all had a central belief in Christianity. The environment felt warm and welcoming to all. Throughout the whole show, lights blazed, music continuously played to keep the crowd up, and Illuminate staff expressed their gratitude and welcome to the performing artists and supporters.
Showcase
Dre.Tuff (“Tuff” being an acronym for Transparent, Unashamed, Faithful, and Flourishing) started a fire in the crowd with his motivating yet honest lyrics over 808 kicks and machine high hats. The messages in his music comes from his daily walk as a young Christian man while having a familiar and appealing sound. His beat selection fits perfectly with his tone and lyrical abilities. What’s even better is his conduct and the continuous outpouring of positive energy to the crowd. His presence demanded all the troubles on peoples’ hearts a mind to disappear for the rest of the night.
Second, Judah performed along with his pianist and violinist. Judah’s music expressed the thoughts and emotions of the people to whom he would empathize with, hoping as an artist to relinquish their hurt through song. He used words to paint images and feelings as if the crowd could go through the experience during the duration of each song. His style is poetic, ranging from speaking over soft instrumental music to left field Hip Hop beats. His passion for embracing Jesus through art lifted the crowd higher.
Guitarist, singer and songwriter Ariel Luna Jr along with his bassist and drummer were third. Their style of soft rock calmed and troubled the waters of the building with frequent exchanges of crescendos and decrescendos. Nevertheless, the songs held special meaning from his life changing experiences. His lyrics told stories about his journeys of choosing the righteous path after years of ignoring it. With his guitar, Ariel strummed his heart out to and ended with his testimony.
Lastly, Pat G performed with a live band for the first time, consisting of a pianist, drummer, guitarist, and trumpeter. With a live band covering his originals songs, it added more life to his music. Pat G’s conscious messages and engagement drew the crowd nearer to his presence mixed with the band’s jazzy style. Their chemistry was the most impressive part of Pat G’s performance.
Conclusion
Overall, my friend enjoyed discovering new local artists with positive messages. I had an amazing time experiencing the music and, has talking to the artists and staff. Illuminate only had two events, but this one was well managed and organized. I am looking forward to the next Illuminate event in November.
@Illuminate.ctx
@dre.tuff
@jwoodzofficial
@judah.mp3
@ariellunajr
@iampat_g
Spotify
Comments