Winthrop offers its students many opportunities to showcase their talent. One of those chances came on Oct. 18 when DSU held a student spotlight concert. An eclectic mix of student artists came together for one night and had their chance to shine at The Edge. Among the artists that performed was hip-hop artist, Jo Pastel.
Pastel hails from Johnson, South Carolina. He has been producing his own music for five years now. Pastel majors in theatre education at Winthrop and minors in peace, justice and conflict resolution. While his major may not directly correlate with his music production, it certainly has not stopped him from trying to make his way into the industry.
He has previously performed at the Augusta State Fair, but most of his recent performances have been at Winthrop. Pastel has a passion for his music and has goals to attain his dreams of making it big in the industry.
“I’m trying to go all the way to the top and be the biggest ever,” Pastel said, “I am trying to get the school on my side because that would be a big help.”
One thing was for sure, Pastel had the support of Winthrop’s DSU and the rowdy crowd of students that attended the DSU Student Spotlight concert. Pastel performed a 15-minute set along with his brother Johnathon. The set showcased his vocal talent and lyrical skills.
Pastel has the energy of an artist who has been performing his whole life. One could tell he has a passion for his music, bringing a part of himself into each song he performed. Pastel also performed a spoken word piece, that was a hit with the audience, as a preview for his upcoming album.
His set was very lively, fun to watch and gave viewers a memorable experience. He did not shy from engaging with the audience and making them feel like part of the show. He danced and had the whole audience moving at one point. During his final number, he even brought up audience members to dance with him on stage. The end of his performance was met with cheers and thunderous applause and he was surely a crowd favorite for the night.
Dionte Darko, who works for Winthrop’s DSU, helped host the event. Darko is a big supporter and promoter of Pastel’s music.
“He actually inspired me to make music,” Darko said. “I find it very inspirational and motivational. I think everyone should hear it.”
Pastel currently has an album out on datpiff.com entitled “Baby Boy.” It has 15 tracks, including the title song “Baby Boy.” He is also releasing a new album on Oct. 24 titled “Orientation.”
His music has a good message, great beats and is a refreshing take on the rap genre, when compared to other popular hip-hop music of today. For links to his music and information about Pastel, follow his Instagram @thepeoples.angel. It is certain that the DSU Student Spotlight will not be the last time Winthrop students hear from Pastel.
