NCCU Ultimate Homecoming Hip-Hop and R&B Concert: A Celebration of Music, HBCU Spirit

DURHAM, NC – On Nov. 2, at 7 p.m., North Carolina Central University (NCCU) hosted its Ultimate Homecoming Hip-Hop and R&B concert. The concert was hosted inside the McDougald-McLendon Arena on campus.

The show started with openers Tuff Way Jae and Zalya. Both are upcoming artists. DJ Lowkey helped with performances throughout the night. 

This was Zalya’s debut performance as an artist. She sent in her audition hours before the deadline. Days after, she was told she would be opening for NCCU’s Homecoming Concert. 

“It was just something I did for fun. But I had friends; they were pushing me. They were like, Zayla, you need to put it out, like, your music got potential. So I finally did it, and here I am.” said Zayla. 

The “Ghetto Angels” rapper NoCap was scheduled to perform but was not able to due to scheduling issues. NoCap’s performance was one of the reasons many students attended the event. 

DeNaiyzha Williams is a student at NCCU. She is one of the many students who came to see No Cap’s performance. 

“I came because it’s homecoming, celebrating my HBCU. But, I kind of wanted to see NoCap as well and Rob49,” said Williams. 

Grammy Award Winner Muni Long and Rob49 were still able to headline the 2023 concert. 

Long said that she loves performing and that she has always had a love for music. 

“It was just in me,” said Long. “Music got into me.” 

The concert is a part of NCCU’s week-long Ultimate Homecoming Experience. From Oct.29 to Nov. 4, NCCU has hosted events such as a drag talent show, the 2023-2024 Miss and Mister NCCU Royal Coronation, and a gospel concert.

Anita Turner, a student at NCCU, thought everyone should enjoy an HBCU homecoming experience. 

“If you don’t go to an HBCU, you should definitely experience homecoming. It’s one of the best. It’s the vibes, the energy, the people, the events. The tailgate, that’s just like,  a family, a big family reunion.” said Turner.

Feature image: Marika Daniel