Morgan State University’s 158th Homecoming Concert on Oct. 8 at Hill Field House drew a strong crowd and high energy, even after headliner NoCap canceled his appearance.
About two hours into the show, the host announced that NoCap’s flight had been canceled and he would not perform, a revelation that sparked cheers from the audience.
“When we heard NoCap wasn’t coming, everybody turned up for real,” said Romalice Wilson, a senior multiplatform production major. “Because nobody really cares about NoCap.”
In his place, Baltimore rapper YG Teck and Washington, D.C. rapper Shy Glizzy took the stage as surprise guests, keeping the momentum going.
Hosts Lor Z and 856 Chris, both Morgan alumni, maintained high energy throughout the night and kept the crowd engaged during long breaks between sets.
The concert began at 8 p.m., but fans waited more than an hour before the opening act, Bunna B, performed alongside two backup dancers in a lively start to the evening.
“It started off really strong, and then in the middle it was kind of so-so,” said Kamille Rutherford, a senior multimedia journalism major. “I got kind of tired and dehydrated, but it was pretty good overall.”
The heat and crowded space led to at least two brief interruptions when concertgoers allegedly passed out from dehydration. Several students said the event organizers could have done more to provide water.
“I think what they could do better next year is have a water team who has cases of water and are ready and on standby for people who need it,” Wilson said.
At 10:39 p.m., R&B singer Mariah the Scientist took the stage, performing fan favorites including Is It a Crime, Beetlejuice and No More Entertainers, accompanied by her signature pink, bedazzled microphone stand.
After the show, the venue was cleared smoothly, and attendees said the overall experience was positive.
“I loved everything about it,” said ShaMiya Griffis, a sophomore business marketing major. “I was so happy to see Mariah. I’m kind of sad that NoCap didn’t come, but Bunna B kept it lit.”
