Local musician Cuee (Cue Wright) utilized her savvy performance skills and clever lyrics to create a dynamic show for the first Tunes @ Night event of the 2017-18 season.
Tunes @ Night is an event presented by Student Union Activities and KJHK each semester. It’s a win-win scenario: local artists get an opportunity for exposure; college students get free entertainment (and free food.) Located at the Lied Center, the public event is accessible for all interested KU students.
Wright’s signature characteristic during this particular performance was her focus on audience engagement. Before beginning the set, Wright directed the audience to stand up and gather around the stage. She also stated that the vibe of the room was vital to her performance.
“I don’t know how to dance,” she quipped, before encouraging the audience to start moving. Several times she asked the group to move closer, and on a few occasions ventured off the stage and into the crowd. Singing along was recommended.
The majority of the songs were solo performances, but Wright did perform duets with two separate collaborators (J Brooks and Jo L) throughout the night.
Wright’s stage personality is captivating, evidenced by the level of audience engagement. The room was alive with cheers, dance moves and general excitement.
However, her personality is not the only part of the story. Wright’s music embraces the hip hop genre without being cliché. She focuses on contemporary relationships and problems, peppering her lyrics with pop culture references ranging from Beyonce to Carlton Banks.
Cuee can be found on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@cueemusic) and her music is available on iTunes, Spotify and Soundcloud, to name a few.
The next Tunes @ Night event is October 12 at 8 p.m., featuring Maybe Not.