The Ludacris concert on April 21st was a night to remember for many students on the Northern Arizona campus, but it wasn't just because we were standing in front of a legend. Rather, we were standing in front of an amazing performer. Don't get me wrong, watching a 40-year-old rap and perform like he was 20 was amazing, but what wowed me was his level of realism throughout his performance.
Ludacris was performing songs that were off his first album like "What's your Fantasy" which premiered in year 2000. This song personally brought memories back from when I was younger (I had family who listened to this when I was younger). But listening to it now only brings me pure joy and the capability to reminisce in the memories. As the memories are beautiful, this song has also become one of my favorite workout songs. For me, a country girl, I love country music but have always loved Ludacris and has led me to widen my taste of music.
At the end of the concert, Luda gave the audience a chance to choose songs, "Move Bitch" was one of the songs that the public picked. This single came out in 2002 and made #3 on the Hot Rap List. This song is full of rhythm and excitement and being the performer he is; he gave it. He gave an awesome performance and got the crowd all pumped up.
The next song that I loved from the concert was "Stand Up" which debuted in 2003. This song is my second favorite workout song due to the high intensity. Brings back memories of high school track, lifting weights was nothing without some Ludacris in the background to set the intensity. Don't even get me started on the next song, "How Low". This song also brought back some memories from high school; I remember doing track workouts to this song. The second memory I have is my best friend I dancing our hearts out to this song, as dorky as that sounds. But overall Luda's songs rang home.
Now not to take from the concert, but just to shine some more light on how talented Luda is, he wrote a song called "Runway Love" which made it was first to debut in 2007. This song by far is my favorite. This song touches on a serious issue, child abuse, and the real problems in some communities. "Runaway Love" for me is my favorite, and I listen to this song all the time. The simple idea that some children grow up thinking "a hell is a place called home," no child should grow up like that. The song comes to show that Ludacris isn't just a rapper who talks about sex and getting people out of your way, he also addresses real issues that most artists won't even touch.
April 21st wasn't just the day that Ludacris performed at Northern Arizona University; it was the day that Prince, 57, died. Ludacris and his DJ did an excellent tribute to him and took it to the level that we lost someone that had a significant impact on the music community. Even though a lot of us didn't know the words, it allowed us to experience the one and only Prince. Talking about Ludacris's DJ, he knew how to throw some sick beats and just added to the atmosphere.
Overall, this was a great night, filled with fun and laughter and a ton of rhymes. If you ever have a chance to see Ludacris, take it, because it is worth the time. Just beware you may not be able to hear afterward, this may be the best sacrifice.
