Camila Cabello, SZA considered for Fly On Music Fest
Ultimately, Program Board couldn’t afford the acts due to their popularity.
Flyer courtesy of FAU Program Board.
February 25, 2018
Before announcing the spring music festival’s lineup Feb. 14, Program Board considered several other artists.
The board started looking into potential performers following OwlFest in October 2017 for spring’s Fly On Music Fest.
“The focus was on overall talent of the performers and providing something different for the student body,” Assistant Director of Student Activities and Involvement Richard Mahler said.
Two artists considered included former “Fifth Harmony” member Camila Cabello and R&B singer-songwriter SZA.
“As with any show Program Board does, many other artists were considered … Unfortunately the popularity of these artists began to skyrocket during the offer process and we were quickly priced out of their market,” Mahler said via email.
Country music singer Hunter Hayes will headline the fest due to his popularity, high attendance rate, and name recognition.
Hayes was offered $42,500, Youtube star JamieBoy $5,000, “American Idol” contestant Haeley Vaughn $2,190, and “The Voice” Matt Schuler $3,000, according to Mahler.
Program Board chose the artists based off its budget and student surveys. During orientation sessions and Weeks of Welcome, the board conducts surveys and asks students what music genre they are most interested in.
“Unfortunately those surveys cannot have artist names on them,” Mahler said via email. “We don’t want to promise an artist and then have said artist either deny the offer or not be available.”
Before the four artists perform at FAU, they can request certain items to make their experience backstage more comfortable. When asked what their requests were, Mahler said the contracts are ongoing and have not been finalized.
This year’s event will be held March 16 in the Student Union auditorium. Admission is free for students with a valid Owl ID and $20 for guests. They can be purchased at the Student Union Box Office.
Alexander Rodriguez is the news editor of the University Press. For information regarding this or other stories, email [email protected] or tweet @AARodriguezz93.
