Music is a remedy. It’s powerful and has the ability to strengthen, heal and enlighten us as people. Through music, we often find ourselves. You might be listening to your favorite album in your living room at midnight. You might be at a show seeing that band for the first or 10th time. Whatever you’re doing, you’re embracing music. As you’re helping yourself, you’re also supporting the artists. As human beings, we need music. In times like these, full of stress, we desperately need music. And artists need us. Therefore, I disagree with CAB’s move to not host a spring concert this year. The mask mandate has been lifted. Bands are touring again. Some are traveling the world while others are just revving up. 

For local artists, the spring concert has been beneficial. For some, it might be their first gig. Because of the spring concert, bands can gain exposure while fueling their passion. These musicians have ranged from out-of-state groups to local talents. 

When playing the spring concert in 2021, artists Six O’Clock Traffic, Stephen Paul and MainMain impressed many Warhawks when they performed together on one lineup. The artists were able to do what they loved most while students enjoyed the sun and songs. 

Due to the heavy blow that was dealt to the music world by the pandemic, artists across the globe have suffered greatly. If we want these artists to continue making music for us, we must continue to support them. 

Buy merch, stream their music, purchase albums, promote their sounds, help them book gigs and go to shows. A spring concert needed to happen this year, not just for our enjoyment, but for the artists. 

Being a musician, I understand the desire to let your voice and instruments be heard. A fantastic local group comprised of ULM students, Matressi, has recently emerged from the bayou and would have been a fun headliner for the spring concert if it was happening this year. Hopefully CAB will reconsider next spring.