With internet access, a computer or tablet, and a cell phone you can become a social media sensation. And, for millennials, becoming famous can occur with a double tap and a few shares. And, thanks to internet site, YouTube, some of our current favorites have been able to make a living. Some using musical talents, pure comedy skits, or by simply being themselves.
To celebrate black internet sensations, YouTube has collaborated with Howard University to present the first YouTube Black FanFest.
Image: Jacara Jenkins/ Howard University marching band “ShowTime”
The YouTube FanFest launched in 2014 in Singapore and continued internationally. And, what better location than Howard, an HBCU, to host the first ever YouTube Black FanFest; and during homecoming week! This event was a perfect way to celebrate black excellence. Andrea Young, our senior fashion editor, attended the fest on October 17th, and #YouTubeBlack was trending on Twitter. Artists on the rise, media personalities and students of the Howard community gathered to support these artists who are not huge acts or names in the entertainment industry. With a crowd of over 1,400 attendees, artists had fans in tears. That is proof that there is a valuable market and demand for black content creators, and that support for the community is necessary. Daniel Caesar, who closed the show, was one of the most impressive acts of the event.
The closing act (Daniel Caesar), and crowd favorite had some of the girls in tears…of course my phone died by then, but I was in shock trying to understand the hype. By his 3rd song, I was on my feet too, lol…he’s good. I can see his career taking off like crazy, said Andrea.
Events like these provide a great representation of millennials enjoying each other, and uplifting one another. YouTube Black Fan Fest was the first of many more to follow, giving great opportunities for our future stars to shine!
So, if you want to know more about the featured performers? Click links above to be redirected to their YouTube Channels and enjoy video below!
Fashion writer for Kontrol. Has previously interned as a reporter for local newspaper in North Carolina. While, freelancing for 2 independent social media blogs as social marketer and writer. Shanice is continuing to perfect her writing craft and gain exposure for more opportunities within entertainment and media.
Shanice Shantelle
Fashion writer for Kontrol. Has previously interned as a reporter for local newspaper in North Carolina. While, freelancing for 2 independent social media blogs as social marketer and writer. Shanice is continuing to perfect her writing craft and gain exposure for more opportunities within entertainment and media.
