By Naquela Kirk
The energy was electric as hip-hop legend Lil Jon took the stage during the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Fall Welcome Back Concert held Saturday, Sept. 7. Bartow Arena filled with excitement as thousands of Blazers came together to celebrate Blazer Welcome, the first four-weeks marking the beginning of the fall semester.
Students began lining up shortly before 4:00 p.m. to secure the coveted floor access wristbands that would allow them to stand in front of the stage. The concert kicked off with student hosts Benjamin Smith and R.J. Lee, who brought energy and laughter, keeping the crowd engaged and buzzing with anticipation for the King of Crunk.
The opening act performances included student acts Kacey Slint and Amari J. and featured Swanglish, an intercultural music group from Birmingham, Alabama, whose music blends Afro-jazz, neo-soul, funk, pop, and more.
When Lil Jon hit the stage, excitement vibrated throughout the arena as his set included a mix of current Billboard Top 40 songs and his classic hits. From “Get Low” to “Turn Down for What,” he delivered a performance that kept the audience entertained from start to finish.
Lil Jon’s appearance is the latest in a long list of incredible musical artists invited to perform at UAB. Most recently, previous artists included T-Pain in 2023, Weezer for the University’s 50th anniversary in 2019 and H.E.R. for the 2018 Spring Concert.
For many Blazers, the concert was more than just a night of music—it was a chance to make new memories and enjoy the sense of community that makes UAB unique. Lil Jon, known for his crowd interaction, brought UAB students into the experience, even stopping his performance to put on a Blazers basketball jersey and UAB baseball cap, further pumping the audience up.
“How couldn’t I have had a good time at the Welcome Back Concert featuring Lil Jon,” said Cason Hudgins, freshman music major. “It was an unforgettable experience, and I loved celebrating the start of my journey as a Blazer!”
Lit with laser lights and pyrotechnics, Bartow Arena became the epicenter of campus excitement. The night ended with confetti filling the air and students leaving with smiles and new memories. As a signature event, the Welcome Back Concert has once again solidified its place as bringing the campus community together for a night of entertainment, connection, and celebration.
UAB began conversations with Lil Jon’s agents in June before extending a formal invitation in July.