University of Memphis students didn't have to shell out millionsof dollars for music videos like some celebrities.
Students had the opportunity live out their MTV dreams for freeand star in their own music videos Wednesday in the UniversityCenter.
These aspiring superstars dance and sang as dozens of studentspectators cheered on their favorite acts. Students chose songs,props, costumes and backgrounds ranging from the Flintstone'sdrive-in to exotic sandy beaches.
The make-your-own-video event was hosted by the StudentActivities Council as a part of the SAC Spring Fling week.
Freshman Travis Jones, who performed the St. Lunatics' "BreatheIn, Breathe Out," said the event was an opportunity for students torelease some stress before finals begin next week.
"Exams are about to start so you need to have some fun beforethen," Jones said. "It's not about embarrassing yourself. It'sabout having fun."
Those were the sentiments of most student performers.
"It's all fun and games," said music business major MauriceMoore. "It's good to release some tension at the end of thesemester."
Moore performed Will Smith's 1991 hit "Summertime" with senioreducation major Robert Atkins.
"It's close to summer, and I'm looking forward to school gettingout," said a sweat soaked Atkins. "I'm a slight performer, and thisis something to show my friends and family."
Buddy Williams of Preferred Entertainment, the company thatprovided the service, said this is his third year doing this eventat The University. This year, between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., 30 videoswere made.
"The students like it (making videos) too much," Williams said."If we did this everyday for six months, we'd still be busy."
Students performed everything from old school classics like SirMix-A-Lot's "Baby Got Back" to new hits like Sean Paul's "GetBusy." Songs from the music group Three-6-Mafia were a crowdfavorite.
"All songs are popular; it depends on what school you're at,"said Williams. "The most popular music at The U of M is urban, hiphop music."
Many students did multiple videos and even jumped in to performwith other students.
Freshman Katrina Gillard performed "Baby Got Back" with sixother people.
"I don't even know them," Gillard said. "I just got up anddanced. It's just to have fun and mingle."
