On the warm evening of July 18th, Soundwell was packed with community supporters, family, and friends, all eager to cheer on young musical artists for their final performances as part of the Resonate and Musicology programs at Spy Hop. This show, Heatwave, was the final hurrah and celebration of the album releases from two exceptional music groups: SLC F8 and Bitter Blue. These talented teens who spent an entire year honing their skills, took the stage one last time, and left the audience absolutely electrified.
SLC F8: Resonate’s Hip-Hop & Rap Group
SLC F8 kicked off the evening with their album, F8 of the City. With sick beats and powerful lyrics, they energized the crowd with the first beat. From clever rhymes, to references to rad local businesses and nonprofits that support and uplift the hip-hop scene (shoutout to The Beehive and The HERC!) the songs truly speak to the band’s name: they are the fate of Salt Lake. The album explores a range of themes, from the challenges of being an artist and a teen today, the political climate, mental health and social class, to reflections on the past, present, and future. These themes come together perfectly. You gotta listen to the album and experience it for yourself.
The rap group brought an infectious, dynamic energy that the crowd was eager to capture. Hands reached up in unison, connecting with the music, the message, and the group’s presence. Cell phones out, audience members captured photos and videos in hopes of preserving the electric atmosphere from the stage. During one of their final songs, all the members of SLC F8 joined the crowd, creating a powerful moment of community. After all, isn’t that what music is all about?
SLC F8 the future of the city
The youth is rising up and we are carrying the city
Carry the city so much weight on my shoulder blades
Undermined and underpaid so I gotta make my own way to the top
