State In the Real Interviews The ‘U’ & Eddie Heartthrob
On Tuesday December 2nd, Eisenhower became the showcase for a rap spectacle. The headliner, Kid Ink, and opening for Kid Ink, was Penn State’s own The ‘U’. Performing for what initially was a very stagnant crowd, the PSU alum got everyone going, and the crowd suddenly sprung out of their seats and moved to the front of the stage where they bounced along to the stylings of The ‘U’ and Eddie Heartthrob. Back by the always fun Keegan Tawa, they trio put together a tight set that everyone could vibe to. They even took the time out of their set to take a moment to recognize Ferguson. After the concert, I had the opportunity to interview the two rappers after the show.
Penn State grad and hip-hop artist The 'U' is still making moves
Ugochukwu Onyianta, who goes by “The ‘U'” when he has the mic in his hand and “Ugo” around friends, has gone from playing house shows in State College, to opening for acts like 2 Chainz, Meek Mill and Rick Ross. Some might remember seeing The ‘U’ perform at one of many Hip-Hop house parties at the obscurely famous Casablanca (may it Rest in Peace) during the 2010-2011 academic year. When asked about the decision to continue his music career after college, The ‘U’ responded that “It feels gratifying to know that I am one of the very few individuals who decided to pursue music professionally after my time at Penn State was over”, and that “The underground scene was fun while I was a student but there is a much bigger world outside of Happy Valley.”
Penn State Alumni Releases New Music Video
Penn State Alumni Ugochukwu Onyianta, aka The ‘U’, just released a new music video, and believe me, it’s worth watching. The video for The ‘U’s new track titled “59/50” features The ‘U’ rhyming to a beat reminiscent of early 90’s hip hop.
During his time at Happy Valley, The ‘U’ was a heavyweight in Penn State’s Underground Music Circuit. The ‘U’ plans to regain his top spot in the underground scene with plans to return to State College in the near future.