KNWD to host its first electronic music festival

Photo credit: knwd

Joshua Fontenot

A&L Editor

Because the university’s annual football game against Stephen F. Austin will take place in Texas this season, last year’s KNWD music festival to celebrate was not an event option for the student-run radio station. General Manager Courtney Page knew that something new had to take its place…but what?

Early in the semester, Page sat down with Director of Live Music and Events Brett Stephenson to create NSU’s first Neon Inferno, an Electronic Dance Music festival.

“I really wanted to have a fall concert,” Page said. “Brett loves EDM and electronic, so we said, ‘let’s do it, let’s make something different.'”

Page said the fest could not come at a better time. Taking place on Normal Hill, the festival will bring students together at NSU’s historic white columns.

“It’s going to be a smaller, more intimate event,” Page said. “We have a really good light show prepared; we probably spent most of our money there honestly.”

Stephenson has worked on many events in the past, but nothing on this scale.

“This has definitely been a lot more work, but I’ve learned a lot,” Stephenson said. “One of the most exciting things has been being able to communicate with artists and plan something to give back to students.”

Aside from music, Stephenson said students can look forward to the Neon Garden, a more artsy side of the festival.

“It’s basically going to be a huge tent with black lights, glowing plants, and trippy visuals,” Stephenson said.

Page said KNWD plans to break out promotional items they’ve been holding under lock and key just for the occasion.

“We’ve got new sunglasses, new cups and t-shirts,” Page said. “We’ll also be picking three random winners for swag bags. I’ve been guarding them with my life.”

Page said the event is in collaboration with SAB and that KNWD is grateful for their help with the festival production.

On Nov. 10, the festival will start at 6:30 with a pre-show by KNWD DJ Coordinator, Xavier Matthews. Djenko, Yultron, Klutch and John Luke will also perform.

“We have really good artists coming in and I hope students will come out and enjoy themselves,” Stephenson said. “My main goal is to be able to give back good music to Northwestern.”