Six students competed in Mayfest’s Battle of the DJs on Thursday for a chance to perform on the Dillo Day stage.
Bienen sophomore Lucas Messore, known as “Behind These Eyes,” took the top prize before a crowd of about 100 people at Buffalo Wild Wings, 1741 Maple Ave. Messore was picked by a panel of three judges, including 2012 winner Chuck Porcelli and outgoing A&O chairman Logan Koepke.
Buffalo Wild Wings worker Mark Lindeman said the event helps the winner take his first steps toward a career in music.
“This helps them be known better,” Lindeman said. “And the winner who performs in Dillo Day will become even more popular.”
Although Thursday night marked only the third Battle of the DJs, Mayfest promotions committee member Steven Goldstein said it is starting to become a Northwestern tradition. The event also raises more excitement for other events leading up to Dillo Day, the Medill sophomore said.
“It’s important because it draws such a niche audience,” Goldstein said. “All the enthusiasm and energy here shows that there’s been a lot of hype and it’s been a lot of fun.”
Some students said although they came to support their friends, they were surprised by the other acts who were performing.
Mayfest concerts committee member Jacob Skaggs said the DJ showcase has become a special part of Mayfest’s programming because it shows students how gifted some of their peers are.
“I didn’t know there were so many talented DJs on campus,” the Communication sophomore said.
The night ended with Dillo Day executive board members announcing both the winner and indie rock band Walk the Moon as Dillo Day’s midday headliner.
Weinberg sophomore Pooja Avula stayed until the end to hear the announcement.
“I’m so excited to hear them play,” she said of Walk the Moon. “They are going to bring so much energy to Dillo Day.”
