Arts

Lyrical Quest: Respect the mic’

Respect the mic’, that is the number one rule at Lyrical Quest, a spoken word outlet open to poets, singers and musicians at Grambling State University.

“When people are up here, please listen,” said Johnathon Barris, Quest member and a guitarist from San Diego. 

“It takes a lot to get up in front of people and perform so please be respectful.” 

Quest brought in the new academic year with their first open mic of the semester last Thursday in Room 111 of Jacob T. Stuart. 

The large crowd saw acts from rappers, singers and dancers who performed a freestyle dance to rapper Meek Mill’s tribute to Addarren Ross, known as Lil’ Snupe behind the mic

When Ian Burse, 20, came to the stage, there was a moment of silence as he looked at the audience without saying a word. Burse was nervous, but let it go once the bass-heavy, heartfelt track began. 

“Lyrical Quest is free expression, a relaxing environment where you can do you’re thing and get away from your problems,” said Burse, a Ruston native and aspiring filmmaker. 

 Established in 2008, Lyrical Quest is made up of rappers, singers and musicians. The next open mic will be Sept. 12.