DJ contest to draw hip-hop fans to U-Club for prizes

By Rachel Edelman
Daily Staff Reporter

About 250 people are expected to enjoy music, free food and hip-hop entertainment tonight at an open-mic and DJ contest scheduled for 7-11 p.m. in the Michigan Union U-Club.

"Everyone that enjoys hip-hop ... that enjoys seeing quality DJs, should be there," said Marshall Lyons, newly elected president of Black Vibes.

Black Vibes is a two-year old music-based organization devoted to providing students with affordable music events and keeping students up to date on the latest music entertainment news. The group received two NAACP and Student Activities and Leadership awards this semester.

Winners of the event, hosted by Black Vibes, will receive a first-place trophy, gift certificates to Cookies by Design and Pizza Bob's, a Black Vibes T-shirt and various complementary items.

"We're expecting a great turnout," said Engineering senior Gerald Olivari, current president of Black Vibes. "I expect it to be a great event."

Throughout the night, two authentic Michigan basketball warm-up suits will be raffled, along with various gift certificates. Free food will be available, and tickets for the event cost $2.98.

"We strongly believe in unity through music," said Olivari, who will also be the emcee for the event.

Tonight's event is one of Black Vibes' major productions of the year. Black Vibes has previously hosted various music events and open-mic nights, and hosts a radio show on WCBN. The group also hosts First Fridays, which are open mic events and parties held on the first Friday of every month.

"It's given students something different," said Mary Stewart, Michigan Union Scheduling Office conference assistant. "It's something that's live and exciting - students really enjoy these events."

The event's sponsors include Source magazine, Virgin Records, the Michigan Athletic Department and Chelsea Flower Shop.

During the night, Olivari, who is also the president of the Black Greek Association, will introduce the new president of Black Vibes, as well as the new Black Vibes executive board.

Olivari "has done some pretty good things since he's been here," Stewart said. "He's a pretty amazing young man."

04-10-98