Limelight Records, Elon University’s student record label, has booked up-and-coming rapper Ryshon Jones to perform at College Street Tap House March 2. Cooly Wright from Atlanta will be performing as the opening act.

[quote]Ryshon Jones had a good buzz and was on the rise. He’s gotten coverage and reviews from major hip-hop sites and he has a strong following. -Neima Abdulahi, co-founder of Limelight Records

“Both of these performers are artists on the rise,” said Neima Abdulahi, co-founder of Limelight Records. “Having them come here widens their fan base and gets their music out to a different audience.”

Jones is a rapper from Philadelphia and describes his style as a blend of influences, ranging from Pink Floyd to Kanye West. He has continued to make appearances in the rap and hip-hop music realm.

Limelight Records contacted Jones because they knew he was a rising talent and because they felt his style of music would appeal to an Elon audience, according to Abdulahi.

“I knew that Ryshon Jones had a good buzz and was on the rise,” Abdulahi said. “He’s gotten coverage and reviews from major hip-hop sites and he has a strong following.”

Abdulahi said Limelight Records is looking forward to hosting Jones as the headliner.

“We think his sound and artistry would appeal to an Elon audience,” Abdulahi said. “We’re excited to have him perform at Tap House.”

In addition to the opening act and headliner, Limelight Records is giving one of its own the chance to share his music with a wider audience as well.

The record label recently selected junior Tyler Marenyi to perform between sets. He will have the opportunity to share his music with Jones and Wright as well as the Elon audience, Abdulahi said.

Putting together this event is something new for the staff of Limelight Records, but one that’s been handled in a professional manner, according to Abdulahi.

“It’s a collaborative effort between all the staff members,” she said. “This event will help stamp Limelight Records as an organization that can put together an event. (The organization) aims to create a tradition so that students can participate in something very similar to the music industry,” she said.

Limelight Records picked up nine artists last year and has already signed two more artists this year.

A presale on $8 tickets is currently being held in the days before the show. Tickets will be $10 at the door.