On June 17th, 2023, Milwaukee’s own rising star, $um1, had the opportunity of a lifetime when he opened for renowned artist Big Boogie at The Forge in Joliet, Illinois. For many young artists, performing at such a high-profile event is a dream, and for $um1, it marked a significant step up from his past open mic performances.
At just 19 years old, $um1 has been honing his craft, perfecting his sound, and building his fan base. His appearance at The Forge was one of his first major shows, but you wouldn’t know it from the way he commanded the stage. The crowd responded with excitement and energy, and $um1 wasted no time showing them why he’s a force to be reckoned with in the hip-hop scene.
The night began with a palpable sense of anticipation as the crowd gathered for Big Boogie’s set. But it was $um1 who quickly caught the attention of everyone in the room. His performance was raw, authentic, and packed with energy. Despite being one of the newer faces in the game, his stage presence was undeniable. The way he connected with the audience, delivering his lyrics with passion, left no doubt that this was just the beginning of something big for him.
What made this moment even more special for $um1 is that he earned this opportunity through a contest. At just 19, he took home the win, securing himself the chance to perform alongside one of the industry’s most exciting up-and-coming artists. This victory wasn’t just about getting a slot on the bill—it was proof that hard work, talent, and dedication were paying off.
Opening for Big Boogie at such a prominent venue was a huge leap from the open mics that $um1 had previously performed at. The energy of a crowd that was there to see a major artist was a whole different vibe, and $um1 met the challenge head-on. His ability to transition from intimate, smaller settings to performing for a larger, more energetic crowd showed his growth and readiness for the next level of his career.
Reflecting on the experience, $um1 expressed his excitement about the opportunity. “It was a great step up for me, and I’m just grateful for the chance to perform on such a big stage,” he said. “The crowd’s energy was incredible, and I can’t wait to keep grinding, getting better, and making music that people can connect with.”
As a 19-year-old artist, the future is incredibly bright for $um1. His performance at The Forge was a pivotal moment in his journey, and he’s only getting started. With his ability to captivate audiences, his drive to succeed, and the dedication he has to his craft, $um1 is setting himself up for even greater opportunities in the future.
For anyone looking for the next big name in hip-hop, keep an eye on $um1. With performances like the one at The Forge, it’s clear that this Milwaukee native is ready to take the stage by storm. Stay tuned, because $um1’s rise in the music world is just beginning.
Follow him on Instagram @theonlysum1
