Friday, April 17
Written by Delia Valdez, Communications Assistant
Excitement is building across campus. This year’s event, taking place Friday, April 24, at the LBS Financial Credit Union Pyramid, will feature a live performance by Big Sean, with Dev opening the show. As one of the university’s most anticipated traditions, Beach Bash brings students together for a night of music, energy, and school spirit.
In preparation for the event, conversations about music have been everywhere. From playlists between classes to speakers set up on the Central Quad, it is clear that music plays a significant role in campus life. This raises a simple question: What kind of music are LBSU students listening to right now?
To explore this, I walked around campus and spoke with students about their favorite genres and songs. While passing through the Central Quad—the grassy hub surrounded by the College of Liberal Arts buildings—I met Logan, who shared his thoughts on his all-time favorite albums.
“Literally anything from Metallica’s first three albums,” Logan said. When asked to narrow it down, he added, “It would have to be ‘The Four Horsemen’ from their Kill ’Em All album.”
Although Metallica falls into the heavy metal genre—quite different from the hip-hop and pop sounds featured at Beach Bash—Logan’s response highlights the wide range of musical tastes across campus.
That variety became even more clear as I made my way toward the library to see what students in a more low-key study setting were listening to. There, I met Ayva, a criminal justice major, who was reviewing her notes.
When asked about her favorite music, Ayva’s taste reflected a shift in genre from Logan’s heavy metal preferences. “My favorite song is ‘Sex on Fire’ by Kings of Leon,” she said. Known for their alternative rock sound, Kings of Leon bring a more melodic and indie-inspired vibe, offering another glimpse into the diverse music scene at LBSU.
Continuing across campus, I stopped by the farmers market, where students gathered between classes. There, I met Luis Hernandez, a communications major who described himself as a “number one Lana Del Rey fan.”
“Anything by Lana Del Rey,” Luis said. He also mentioned, “And Mariah the Scientist—I just went to her concert this month. 'In my Nightmares' is my favorite right now.”
Lana Del Rey’s alternative pop, also known as “dream pop,” paired with Mariah the Scientist’s alternative R&B style, reflects a blend of emotional and genre-crossing music that differs from both metal and indie rock, further emphasizing the diversity of students’ preferences here on campus.
It is interesting to think that we walk next to people every day with completely different likes, dislikes, and tastes—even now, standing right next to each other in line at the farmers market. When curiosity got the best of me, I spoke with Diego, a freshman art major who was standing right next to Luis, to see what his favorite genre was. Asking did not disappoint, as Diego offered yet another perspective. “Oh, all I listen to is rap—right now, I like ‘On You’ by Shordie Shordie,” he said, adding that rap music is his go-to, even while studying.
After just one walk across campus, it became clear that LBSU students listen to a wide range of music, from heavy metal and alternative rock to R&B and rap. The genres are endless. While everyone’s taste is different, music remains a shared part of student life that connects people across campus.
As Beach Bash approaches, students may find themselves surrounded by familiar sounds or discovering something new. Whether you are a fan of Big Sean, Dev, or any of the genres represented across campus, the event offers something for everyone.
Do you have a favorite genre? Want to share your favorite song? Let us know at ASI-Communications@csulb.edu, or DM us on Instagram for a chance to be featured on our page!
