By Kylie Richards

New this semester, the Loyola School of Communication brings live performances straight to your home through the music series Lo-Fi Fridays. This series highlights student musicians and takes place on Fridays at 12 p.m. CT on Zoom. 

On April 9th, 2021, Lo-Fi Friday’s featured student artist, Sydney Wurapa. Sydney is majoring in Advertising and PR, and she is also pursuing a minor in Spanish at Loyola University Chicago. On top of that, she sings, writes music, and plays the piano. Wurapa’s performance displayed that her talents span universally through her academics and musical ability.  

The Zoom session began intimately with Sydney seated at her piano. The show kicked off with a song she wrote at the beginning of quarantine titled“My Own Superhero.” The inspiration for this song came from losing normalcy and happiness in the early months of COVID-19, something that everyone can relate to. The raw emotion of this song transported the audience to exactly what she felt in those painful moments.  

She then transitioned to another self-written song titled “Forget You” that was stripped down to a naked piano version. The natural elements of this revision highlighted her vocals beautifully. The strength and clarity of Sydney’s voice was evident throughout her entire performance. 

Following her two original songs, Sydney showcased four cover songs that have influenced her music. The first of the covers, “Alive” by SIA, highlighted the versatility of her voice, ranging from powerful belts to light, soft notes. Then a raspy, gravely number titled “Skin” by Rag’n’Bone Man, a British artist, brought even more variety to the concert and fit Wurapa’s unique tone perfectly. 

She finished the set with two inspirational songs, “Your Song” by Elton John and “One Day” by Matisyahu. “Your Song” accentuated her high-level of piano technique with skillful melodies. “One Day” concluded the show, and introduced a lively, upbeat rhythm. The motivational message behind this number left the audience feeling connected and hopeful. 

Sydney’s ability to emotionally connect to an audience with her presence and sound shown through during her Lo-fi Friday showcase. The passion in her voice is undeniable with every note she sings.