Colorful lights hung from the ceiling, creating a warm glow throughout the Pavilion, while Victoria Monet’s “On My Mama” played in the background, setting the mood for Mercy University’s first open mic of the season on Sept. 19.
The atmosphere felt relaxed but with a hint of excitement as students prepared to perform. Performers ranged from experienced to first-timers, all with some nerves as they rehearsed for their time on stage. At 6 p.m., Zaire Smith, the host, took the mic to get things started. With two years of hosting under his belt, Zaire kept the vibe focused on creativity and community.
“I try to create an atmosphere for artists who make music to have a community, show their music, their talent, and for students who don’t make music but enjoy it to come have fun and hang,” he explained. His goal was clear, and the night reflected that laid-back, welcoming approach.
The first act was senior Kendall Joshua, who performed “Love is in the Air.” Kendall’s steady vocals set the tone for the night, drawing the audience in as they settled into the evening’s performances.
Later that evening sophomore Akoda Ocean followed with an acoustic piece that got the crowd’s attention.
“My song is about the complicated relationships between fathers and daughters,” she said before starting. Her vocals, along with the personal theme, resonated with the audience, leaving a noticeable impact.
Senior Skyla embraced the opportunity to step out of her comfort zone with a rendition of Charli XCX’s “Talk Talk”.
“I love singing and just wanted to do something big and impactful my last year,” she explained. Her performance was lively, and it was clear she wanted to make her final year at Mercy count.
By the time the open mic wrapped up, it had set a positive tone for the season ahead. The night wasn’t just about showcasing talent—it was about creating a space where students could express themselves and connect with each other. The event highlighted Mercy’s focus on community and creativity, and if this open mic was any sign, future ones will bring more opportunities for students to share their talents and make their mark.
