CAB chose these acts in response to a survey process in which they elicited student feedback and preferences on genre. Hip hop has dominated the homecoming concert for a few years, with artists like Common, Wyclef Jean and Lupe Fiasco performing.
Linda Tran, sophomore business major and CAB promotions assistant, sat outside of the Office of Student Leadership and Engagement (SLE) selling tickets on Monday. In just an hour, she sold ten tickets. Tran said, “N.E.R.D has always been floating around as a choice. They are one of those groups that you just want to hear in concert.” Kim Mai, homecoming concert director, said CAB tried to book the group last year but could not afford it. Mai said “Based on our surveys last year, 21% of the students asked for hip hop, 17% Alternative, and 16% for rock.” CAB surveyed 1,056 students.
In relation to homecoming, Tran said “Hip hop is always a popular genre.” While the homecoming week generally takes place in February, USF decided to move it up so they could include it as part of the Fall Fest, a series of on campus events hosted by the Office of Residence Life. The other events involved with homecoming, the dance and the pep rally, will still take place. Although last year CAB charged an entrance fee to the dance, Tran said this year admission will be free.
Tickets will not be sold at the door. Prices are $5 for USF students/$10 the day of show.
