Hype for hip-hop artists

Andy Mineo and guests performed at Thomas Road Baptist Church Nov. 6

Gathered in the sanctuary of Thomas Road Baptist Church Friday, Nov. 6, guests packed in near the stage awaiting the arrival of the artists of the evening — Andy Mineo, Propaganda and JGivens.

Mineo’s “Uncomfortable” tour made its stop at Liberty University for College for a Weekend.

Walking out with a “humble beast” flat bill, special guest JGivens started the night along with Dj Efechto.

A newcomer to Lynchburg, JGivens performed songs such as “Lost in Space” and set the energy for the evening as he trotted and danced around the stage along with the rhythm.

Not long after the songs began, JGivens reminded the crowd of the reason behind the event — the gospel.

“What’s important is if we come together in the name of Jesus, we can overcome,” JGivens said.

Mineo and Propaganda are three-time veterans for performances at Liberty University according to Propaganda. Throughout the night, they also brought the crowd back to the central purpose through lyrics and testimonials as K.j. Washington, a Liberty Masters of Divinity student, testified.

“From artistry, people usually look for a surface level meaning,” Washington said. “But every song tonight Andy (Mineo) presented had a deep, Gospel-centered meaning.”

Propaganda rehearsed spoken word pieces such as “Crimson Cord” then narrated while Mineo performed songs from his new album, as well as hits such as “Paisano’s Wylin,” “Neverland” and “You Can’t Stop Me” as an encore song at the end of the night.

Mineo’s set included using what seemed to a normal box on the stage which turned from bland to busy as animations and scenes from places such as New York City appeared brightly on the digital box.

The box added visuals to the performances, and Mineo added to the antics on stage by using other props such as a hoverboard.

Throughout the night, Mineo not only shared the gospel, but encouraged fans to support others through World Vision.

World Vision is “a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice,” according to their website. This organization is a partner on the “Uncomfortable” tour.

For more information about Mineo’s tour dates, visit andymineo.com.

Tiller is the feature editor.