UNC Hip Hop Ensemble Takes the Stage with “Who Dare” at The PITCH
On a vibrant Friday evening, the UNC Hip Hop Ensemble lit up The PITCH on Franklin Street, captivating an audience eager to experience the original songs crafted by the ensemble throughout the semester. This performance, titled “Who Dare,” was not just a showcase of talent; it was a deep dive into the realms of horror and Southern gothic themes, a unique blend that resonated with the spirit of the season.
A New Era in Hip Hop at UNC
Founded in 2022, the UNC Hip Hop Ensemble has quickly established itself as a creative force within the university’s music scene. Under the guidance of music professor Suzi Analogue, the ensemble is a melting pot of talent, featuring rappers, singers, a producer, and an instrumentalist. Open to UNC alumni, staff, and students, the group meets every Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. in the Hill Hall Beat Lab, fostering a collaborative environment where creativity thrives.
The Inspiration Behind “Who Dare”
Ayla Baker Kural, a vocalist, rapper, and the ensemble’s outreach lead, shared insights into the thematic direction of the show. “We wanted to tell a story this semester and we wanted it to be something real,” she explained. “So we thought, OK, we’re in the South. There’s been a lot of horror going on just in general life. How can we take inspiration from actual horror films, but also Southern roots, and put on this show right around Halloween time?”
This thoughtful approach to storytelling set the stage for a performance that was both entertaining and thought-provoking, inviting the audience to reflect on the intersection of culture and horror.
A Haunting Atmosphere
To enhance the eerie ambiance of the performance, scenes from the acclaimed horror film “Us” flickered across the backdrop, while bright red lights bathed the stage in a haunting glow. This visual element not only complemented the music but also immersed the audience in the thematic experience. The ensemble drew inspiration from contemporary artists such as Doja Cat, Three 6 Mafia, Doechii, and 21 Savage, weaving their influences into a tapestry of sound that was both fresh and familiar.
A Community of Collaboration
Donavan Moonie, known in the music world as Don Atlas, is a rapper in the ensemble and a proud UNC alumnus. He expressed his excitement about this particular performance, noting that it was the earliest in the semester the group had ever taken the stage. “That’s the greatest thing about the community here at UNC, the hip hop community, is just collaboration,” Moonie remarked. “It’s less competition-focused as it would usually be in other hip hop spaces.”
Before joining the ensemble, Moonie spent countless hours in his dorm room, honing his craft as a producer. Discovering the Hip Hop Ensemble opened up new avenues for him, allowing him to share his passion and skills with a larger community. This sense of camaraderie and support is a hallmark of the ensemble, making it a unique space for artistic growth.
The Power of Performance
The performance at The PITCH was more than just a display of musical talent; it was a celebration of creativity, community, and the power of storytelling through hip hop. As the ensemble members poured their hearts into their original songs, the audience was treated to a night of entertainment that was both engaging and reflective of the cultural narratives that shape our lives.
With each beat and lyric, the UNC Hip Hop Ensemble continues to carve out its place in the university’s rich musical landscape, proving that hip hop is not just a genre but a powerful medium for expression and connection. As they look ahead to future performances, the ensemble remains committed to exploring new themes and pushing the boundaries of their artistry, ensuring that their voice resonates far beyond the walls of The PITCH.
