Mar. 28, 2016
Rachel Librach
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Music can be expressive and is a passion for many people, especially for those who play in a band.
The National Society of Leadership and Success is hosting a battle of the bands event on April 4 at 6 p.m. in Berger Hall that will feature bands from area colleges and other colleges in the CU system. Eight bands had registered by press time.
The event is free and students can vote for their favorite band to win not only a cash prize, but also a potential spot on 103.9 RXP, a local radio station.
At the event, students can meet the band members, purchase merchandise and help support local bands.
NSLS vice president Estell Moore believes that this event is a great way for students to get more involved and support the bands.
“If anybody in the community really enjoys music, or they have nothing to do on a Monday night, you’re welcome,” said Moore, a sophomore mechanical and aerospace engineering major.
“It’s nice having the chance to promote our club through this event, but personally I’m doing it to help my friends’ bands and local bands perform in front of a large audience.”
Each band will play two songs for a total of 10 minutes stage time. The music will range from acoustic to metal core.
Moore said she wants students to stop by between classes to enjoy the music and vote for their favorite.
Austin Sutton, senior music major at Pikes Peak Community College, thinks the competition is a good way for bands to get their name out.
Sutton is competing with his metal band, Letters to the Living. They entered the competition because the drummer knows Moore, according to Sutton.
“I haven’t done this before, but we think it’s a good way to sample our music to Colorado Springs fans,” he said.
Sutton said he thinks his band has a good chance of winning.
“The other bands are good, but we are different and that will help us stand out. We can appeal to more people instead of just one demographic.”
Northeastern State University alumnus Nick Watrous is a solo act called R3diculous. Watrous uses his voice, guitar synthesizer and looper to create his electronic sound.
Watrous had radio time in the past, with one of his songs played on 103.9 RXP.
“I would love to see some other acts and hear what they have created and what they have to offer. This kind of audience and publicity really helps a musician’s career,” said Watrous.
Watrous heard about the event through a social media post and decided to enter. He’ll be playing one jazz song and one electronic song.
Moore said NSLS was surprised by the amount of positive feedback and enthusiasm from students and bands. NSLS plans to put on the event every semester.
“We have over 400 people starting to RSVP through the public, not just college bands. We are continuing to publicize this event and are expecting big crowds,” she said.
To learn more about the event, check out the UCCS NSLS Facebook page and visit their events tab or you can email Moore at [email protected].