Lil Sikes announced as Spring Fling headliner

Jacob Downey

He/Him

Editor-in-Chief

4/11/24

After weeks of speculation and two more of delay, PACS has announced that Spring Fling will be headlined by rapper Lil Skies. 

PACS On-Campus Events Chair Jessica Falconer ‘25 shared that Lil Skies was chosen after careful consideration of both budget and music taste in the hopes of appealing to as many students as possible. “This year’s Spring Fling is exciting and worthwhile for every student because there is something for everyone. We hear your voices, and are proud of the way we value those at PSU,” she said. 

The reaction to this announcement has been largely positive. On Instagram, one alumni lamented “how is it that in 2022/2023 it was djs [from] Boston and now it’s lil skies [?] damn that’s a joke to the students who graduated,” another compared it to the announcement of new scholarships at the ‘23 graduation. “They got that Boston anthem singer money now,” they said.  

Weekly Spin author Daniel Harrison says what you get from Lil Skies performance is “all in the name.” He fits neatly into the 2016-era of Soundcloud trap popularized by Lil Yachty, Juice WRLD, and Playboi Carti. Not groundbreaking but catchy enough and fun to sing along to. “It’s throwback, high-school kinda music. It’s fun. He throws a lot of energy into live performances, so be ready to meet him halfway.” 

Harrison recommends listening to “Lust,” “Red Roses,” and “Cloudy Skies” off Lil Skies debut mixtape “Life of a Dark Rose.”

“Know the hooks so you can sing along. Get ready to jump. Don’t take it too seriously,” he said. 

Mason Foreman ‘26 is less enthused. “Lil Skies is a washed up C-list, mumble rap, sound cloud artist with a discography that could only be summed up as mediocre at best,” he said. Foreman anticipates students knowing two-songs off the hour long set and that a shorter concert with a more noteworthy artist would be more satisfactory.

The winner of April 13’s Battle of the Bands will open for Lil Skies. “Students will vote for their favorite band at this event, so it is highly recommended that students attend,” said Falconer. The night will be rounded out with a DJ set by Groove Boston, returning from last years performance. 

Tickets will be sold until April 24, online as well as in The HUB while PACS is tabling. The show will take place on April 27, with doors opening at 8 PM.