Three words that can motivate college students to take part in politics: rock and roll.
Rock the Vote is a free concert, sponsored by the Walker Institute of Politics, on Sept. 16 at 6 p.m. at the Ogden Amphitheater.
The concert is free to students and will feature the musical talents of Vancouver act Bob Moses and Utah-based group The Brocks. Both acts have established followings in Utah.
Rock the Vote is one of several events taking place during Constitution Week, which is put on by the Walker Institute of Politics to promote active participation from students in politics, particularly in voting. The 2014 midterm elections had the lowest young-voter turnout rate recorded in a federal election. Only 19.9 percent of 18-29 year olds cast ballots.
While many students are interested in politics, a surprising number of them are not registered to vote. Rock the Vote aims to help reluctant voters realize the importance of voter registration.
“We know from data about our students that if they are registered to vote, they are more likely to vote,” political science professor Leah Murray said. “Any effort the university can make to register young people is important. We teach our students the habits of citizenship while on campus, and they will carry these habits through their lifetime.”
While the theme of Rock the Vote is political, students can expect an entertaining evening filled with music from the two artists who will be performing. The bands that will be featured at Rock the Vote have already established themselves among college-aged music fans.
“4 reasons you should come [to Rock the Vote]: 1. It’s free, 2. Bob Moses, 3. Bob Moses, 4. Bob Moses,” said opening band The Brocks on their Facebook page.
Canadian group Bob Moses plays electronica music and describes their musical style as “Music that will make you want to build a highway through a low income neighborhood.” They have played at major festivals including Coachella, Bonnaroo and Lollapalooza. Bob Moses has also appeared on “The Ellen Show,” Ellen Degeneres being a fan herself.
The Brocks identify their music as indie and electronic. This Provo-based group has become well-known around the beehive state but has also reached mainstream success. The band’s single ‘Circles’ was featured in a national ad campaign for Kenneth Cole’s men’s fragrance line, and they previously collaborated with DJ Kaskade, a grammy-nominated musician.
The Rock the Vote concert will be located at the Ogden Amphitheater (343 E 25th St. Ogden, Utah) on Friday, Sept. 16 at 6 p.m.
For more information on the Constitution Week events, visit the Walker Institute’s page on Weber State’s website.
