Written by Tanya Terry
Passion is what drives the finalists performing in the Signal Boost concert and competition taking place Dec. 9 at Capitol Theatre! That passion could earn them the first place prize of $2,500 cash, $2,500 to a local nonprofit they perform about and 10 hours of studio time!
“I’m super stoked to perform live and share my music and passion with everyone,” said Jenna Clark, age 17.
Like the other finalists, Clark will have the opportunity at the Capitol to vocalize what she cares about and creatively express her vision for a better future.
Clark will be singing about sexual assault.
The show was built as a “family friendly show,” in which no profane language is allowed. Topics being covered may be sensitive, however.
“I’m looking forward to hitting the stage, showing everybody my talent and showing them that Siah D is gonna be the next big thing out of Flint, Michigan,” said 21-year-old Messiah Douglas, who goes by the stage name Siah D.
“I wanna show the world my passion in music,” Douglas added.
Douglas’ focus will be on the death of his father last year.
The Signal Boost concert and competition, presented by Luma and Shop Floor Theatre Company, is an all-ages concert and competition celebrating Genesee’s County’s brightest young talent. In October, artists ages 14-23 were challenged to grab the microphone and sing, speak or rap about the issues that matter to them most. All the artists’ work must be original. Dozens applied, and five were selected as Signal Boost finalists by the “Signal Boost Review Crew.” The crew was made up of members from New York, Los Angeles and Flint. It consisted of those who have worked in the music industry or are currently working in it.
“I’m excited to showcase my music and see the feedback-and see if people are rocking with me like I’m rocking with them,” explained 21-year-old Bleau McCray-Morel.
McCray-Morel’s musical performance will be centered on the state of Flint, in general.
Seventeen-year-old Kameron Motley’s song will focus on the power of youth to transform the city.
“I personally look forward to representing the youth to show that our voice is well-deserving of the microphone,” Motley expressed.
“This is a very rare opportunity and I am grateful for it,” he added.
“We know that young people have a lot to say, and often they have very fresh perspectives on things that maybe older generations or people very close to the issues no longer see,” said Kate Glantz, head of social impact at Luma.
“So we really wanted to create a creative space for young people to be heard, to be encouraged and empowered to tell us what they care about-and do it in a way that sparks joy and fun and celebration in the process,” Glantz added.
“I am looking forward to showcasing my talent on one of the most historic stages in my city,” said 23-year-old Jo Ikigai.
Ikigai will express herself through spoken word and will use the platform to bring additional awareness to the issue of sexual assault.
The audience favorite will receive $1,500 cash and $1,500 donation to a local nonprofit, as well as 10 hours of studio time. The other finalists will receive $500 cash and a $500 donation to local nonprofit, along with five hours of studio time
The evening will also feature performances by local acts including iconic Flint rapper and spoken word artist Mama Sol and her house band Tha N.U.T.S. Sol dedicated several hours of her time at the Signal Boost Workshop, held in Flint, helping finalists refine their lyrics and offering support, as well as other advice.
Other featured artists include Jon Connor, known as “the people’s rapper,” and Charity, an artist from Detroit.
Glantz was introduced to Kendrick Jones, executive director of Shop Floor Theatre Company, as someone doing incredible work in Flint with the amazing talent in the city.
“We really built this program together with the input and counsel l of Flint residents-and I think what we’ve created is something that will spark a lot of joy and pride,” Glantz explained.
The show is free and open to the community. For tickets, visit https://tickets.thewhiting.com/9390.
