Ludacris and Wale 'Step Off' in New York City

On Saturday (Jan. 30), New York City’s Roseland Ballroom played host to Sprite Step Off, the regional finals of the largest national step competition in history. The entire venue, including the balcony, was packed with parents, children, and energetic Greek life screaming their support for the competing frats and sororities. Amongst the herd of people were two rappers, Ludacris and Wale, prepared to provide the lyrical entertainment for the night.

Wale opened up the jam-packed event with his hit song “Pretty Girls.” The crowd sang along with the words as Wale pointed his microphone toward the balcony encouragingly. The D.C. native also performed “Sexy Lady” featuring the go-go band UCB.

Once the competition began, the crowd focused their attention on the dozens of step teams rhythmically stomping the stage with a creative flare second to none. While the judges mulled over their decision of those with the best footwork, Ludacris came out for the intermission with a fun and clean journey through his illustrious 10-year career. The Atlanta native started the performance with his breakout hit “What’s Your Fantasy,” spit some bars from his cameo on Nas’ “Made You Look (Remix),” and even staged his newest club banger, “How Low.” By the end of his 20-minute performance, the crowd cheered for more. Luda obliged and encored with a few more tracks.

Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity and Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, both from Howard University, took the $20,000 victory checks back to D.C. in a landslide victory. Next up for the winners is a trip to Atlanta on February 20 to compete in the national finals.

–Bilal “Blogzworth” Morris