Rapper Mike Wallz stepped onto the stage of The State Theatre with a question for the audience.
“How y’all feeling tonight?” Wallz said to the intimate gathering of people.
The up-and-coming star appeared in State College once again Friday night. As Penn Staters were winding down from a hectic week of studying, people took the time to relax and see one of their own perform. Mike Wallace, also known as Mike Wallz, graduated from Penn State in December.
As the crowd entered the performance hall, a jazzy vibe of conscious hip-hop showcased by the lyrical greats of Nas and Common filled the atmosphere.
The wait to enter the show was not long Alanna Spurlock said, as the people mingled and spoke in anticipation for Wallz.
“I’m excited to see what he’s all about,” Spurlock (junior-marketing) said. “I heard he was good and I wanted to see what his message was about, it seems uplifting.”
The anticipation grew as Boomerang Kid opened for Mike Wallz and DJ The MXBB thrilled the audience with his innovative mix of songs.
As Wallz’s performance finally arrived, the atmosphere visibly changed. The lights dimmed and the melody became soft as the band and background singers serenaded the crowd.
But as the night continued, the hype of Wallz was seen in the crowd as they nodded to the tunes.
Erik Rau, Wallz’s primary drummer, from Columbus, Ohio, said that the performance reflected, “a good set with high energy.”
The venue — though small in comparison to Bryce Jodan Center events — contained intimate interaction with the audience, as Wallz was able to speak with his fans and receive immediate feedback.
Wallz performed more than 10 songs, some of which came from his new album “The Free Life.”
The crowd seemed pleased as Wallz’s night came to a close.
Jordan Dunbar (freshman-psychology), one of Wallz’s photographers, said of Wallz’s style, “I like his flow, he wanted to bring back the old style of good music; He wants a positive influence on rap.”
But aside from Wallz’s rising influence, he continues to have a positive influence on the Penn State community. Dunbar said that Wallz continues to make an impact in his life.
“Mike’s always been a mentor, he’s always told me ‘don’t go to Penn State and waste time,’” Dunbar said.
