By Caitlyn Trudnich
Two of AMP Radio’s favorites – Aloe Blacc and Snoop Dogg - performed this past Sunday during Jam Day at the 28th Annual JazzReggae Festival.
Photo Courtesy of Ryan Piercy
The annual music and arts festival, located at the Intramural Field at UCLA, is the largest student-run festival in the nation! Each year, hundreds of people, students, and families alike, gather to enjoy a sunny weekend in Los Angeles with live music, yummy food, vendors, live art, and more! Previous years have included acts such as The Roots, Erykah Badu, Q-Tip, Damien Marley, Nas, Barrington Levy, Raphael Saadiq, Common, and many more.
Photo Courtesy of Ryan Piercy
Fans this year were buzzing about seeing the popular “Wake Me Up” singer, Aloe Blacc. Blacc brought his old-school flair to his performance, having the soulfulness of a young Marvin Gaye, accompanied by his energetic band. During his performance, Blacc gave a shout out to mentor and Beats mogul, legendary rapper Dr. Dre, who first used Blacc’s current single, “The Man,” in one of his commercials.
Snoop Dogg is a well-known fan of UCLA, as his son Cordell has his sights set on playing football at the local university. Snoop appeared on-stage with swagger that only the great “d-o-double-g” can provide! Wearing a black UCLA football jersey, plenty of gold chains, and a special blinged out microphone, Snoop delivered many of his hits including, “Gin & Juice,” “What’s My Name?” and even his rap in Katy Perry’s “California Girls.” He also performed songs from his Reincarnation album as Snoop Lion. As the show closed, he announced that he would gladly perform at the Jazz Reggae Festival again.
(Photo by Caitlyn Trudnich)
Top 5 Things About JazzReggae Festival:
5. Water Refill Station -
For the second year in a row, JazzReggae featured a free water refilling station, in partnership with Event Water. Festival attendees were able to bring in refillable water bottles and obtain unlimited amounts throughout the day. This concept keeps people hydrated in the hot sun, while also reduces the amount of plastic water bottle waste.
4. Shaved Ice
Who could pass up a giant shaved ice cone on a hot day? And with a refill for $2 off – how can you pass it up! [Hint: Go for a triple whammy of Fruit Punch, Mango, and Piña Colada. Amazing combo.]
3. The historic atmosphere of UCLA
Taking place on the Intramural Field, near the heart of UCLA’s Bruin Plaza, there’s so much to look at! With buildings like Royce Hall dating back to 1929, the red brick architecture of the college campus makes for a great atmosphere.
2. The people
So many different people attend the festival. College students, families, old school jazz and reggae lovers – they all come together for this entertaining weekend. Music truly speaks to everyone.
1. The performers
Where else could you see major names like Aloe Blacc and Snoop Dogg perform locally – and all for a general admission price? JazzReggae Festival is definitely a can’t miss Memorial weekend activity. Can’t wait to see who will be on the lineup next year.