WASHINGTON -- #YoutubeBlack FanFest was all that and then some! The event, which was sponsored by new movie, The Hate U Give, was filled with some of YouTube’s most popular Black creatives who brought their talents and styles to the Mecca for a night of fun!

The Howard University Showtime Marching Band got the night bouncing with their lively rendition of Drake’s “In My Feelings.” Following the Band’s energizing performance, YouTube group Dormtainment took us to Culture Church and led the congregation in song, “Oh Happy Ye,” before ending with a prayer over our lost brother, Mr. Kanye West. 

#YouTubeBlack Fanfest continued the star-studded night with various performances by Black YouTube influencers, including YouTube Comedians TPindell, KevOnStage, and a Howard Inspired Family Feud round with Summerella, Kingsley, De’Arra and Ken from DK4L, Jae Richards and Trey Richards from 4YE, Shan Boody, and Khadi. 

Although the night was filled with some of YouTube’s best comedians, the musical performances were nothing short of amazing. Ari Lennox and Ava Pearl gave soulful performances of their original songs, while the HU Step Team, Next Town Down and Ceraadi hyped the crowd with their energetic movies and style.

Wrapping up the event, the suave sounds of singer-songwriter Jhené Aiko set the stage and the mood for the rest of the night as the crowd went wild for her performance. Performing a plethora of fan favorites, including “Bed Peace,” “The Worst” and “Post To Be,” Aiko’s smooth voice and positive energy had the crowd engaged throughout her entire set. Before the night was over, Aiko invited the other #YouTubeBlack Fanfest guests on stage with her and ended her performance Swag Surfing with over 1,400 Howard students and alumni in Cramton Auditorium.

Overall, #YouTubeBlack Fanfest created an environment where Black creators, innovators, and scholars could come together and enjoy theEuphoricenergy of another exciting Howard University Homecoming.

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Article Written by Mi'Chael N. Wright

Photo Cutline: Jhené Aiko performs at #YouTubeBlack FanFest 2018 at Howard University on October 23, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)