Rapper Hoodie Allen has been announced as UA’s 2015 SpringFest performer.

On April 17, Hoodie Allen confirmed the performance by tweeting:

According to Billboard.com, Hoodie Allen puts a little more pop music into his rap.  Allen began working with a producer in 2009 that he met at a college party, which resulted in him winning MTV’s Best Music on Campus Award. He became more popular in 2012 when he released his EP, All American. The EP debuted in the top 10 on Billboard’s Top Albums.

“I think he’s amazing and he truly cares about his fans… It’s awesome to actually have one of your favorite artists be so humble and actually respond to your tweets and let his fans know that he cares and he is thankful for them is awesome,” said junior Kylee Eager. “I can’t get enough Hoodie. I just love how positive he is. His upbeat songs and his carefree attitude. I think maybe more people at Akron will learn to love him when they experience one of his concerts.”

“It’s a big improvement from last year’s, we had a no name artist that no one knew and we have this huge figure coming, it’s really exciting,” said sophomore Andrew Ford.

The sixth annual SpringFest is UA’s way of celebrating the end of Fall and Spring semester. This free event will be held on Friday, May 1, starting at 4 p.m. and ending with fireworks at 9:30 p.m. at Coleman Common.

David Vale, assistant director for campus programs, said, “This year will offer 12 activities and four novelty items for attendees. The major change from SpringFest 2014 is the addition of a band. Last year featured professional DJs as the main entertainment.”

Besides the headlining performer, SpringFest has an array of events including the Zipline, a kangaroo petting zoo, laser tag, mechanical bull challenge, and free games and entertainment. Students are also eligible to win free items throughout SpringFest.

Seniors also get the chance to participate in the Ultimate SpringFest Challenge, which is an all day event that allows them to win more prizes.

There is going to be a variety of carnival type foods and food trucks, including Swensons, which is always a UA favorite.

This event is open to all UA students and faculty. Three guests are permitted with a valid Zip Card.

This year the Undergraduate Student Government, Zips Programming Network, Auxiliary Enterprises including Dining Services, Parking and Transportation Services and Printing Services, and Division of Student Success sponsor SpringFest.

For more information about SpringFest, or to apply for the Ultimate SpringFest Challenge visit  http://www.uakron.edu/springfest/. If interested in volunteering or have any questions, contact David Vale, assistant director of campus programs, at 330-972-6568 or [email protected].