Phillip-Micahel Scales sang amid the lunch chaos in Ronnie Williams Student Center on Feb. 25. 

Students went about their normal activities, getting lunch and socializing in the student center, but were greeted with a musical guest. 

On a small stage from 1:30- 2:40 p.m., Phillip-Michael Scales could be seen with just a guitar and his voice.

The Student Activities Board on campus hosted this event and warmly welcomed Scales to UCA. 

As he strummed chords and sang songs he had personally written, more and more students gathered to eat their lunch closer to him and be in the presence of his voice. 

Safaa Sohail, a member of the SAB, commented on how she enjoyed the personal stories he shared with the crowd and how he expressed himself through his own songwriting. 

In between songs, Scales would share bits and pieces about meanings, feelings or the importance of each tune which allowed him to connect with the audience and get his vision across before even singing. 

He expressed how inspirations shaped his music.

“Family is a big inspiration for me,” Scales said.

He also said that from the first time he was on stage and felt the rush of adrenaline, he knew this was what he was meant to do. 

His passion for music and performing was alive while he was on stage playing his own songs like, “Be my own man” and “Light up the sky.” 

Scales was able to express a drive and motivation to learn from his past experiences and look toward the future. 

By explaining how he took inspiration from past heartbreaks and challenges in life and recognizing how they shaped him, the audience was able to gather a larger understanding of his work and unique songs. 

“I know it sounds cliche, but if you put your mind to do something you really want, you’ll find a way to make it happen,” Scales said before a song. 

Scales incorporated all sorts of genres of music such as folk, indie, soul and blues crafting melodies and lyrics everyone in the room could jam to.   

While at the event, freshman Ava Walker shared her thoughts on the music.

She said, “It [lunch] is cute with music behind it.” 

She had seen signs advertising the event and was intrigued before, but stayed because of the soulful music Scale played. 

Walker, as well as other audience members, conveyed their enjoyment of events like these. 

She said, “There needs to be more local artist engagement,” and that she is excited to see what is coming to UCA in the future. 

Scales released his most recent EP on Feb. 14 and you can find tickets for his US tour starting in March on his website https://phillipmichaelscales.com/music. 

His sophomore album is also releasing soon, premiering on April 25 and is up for pre-save now. 

With events like these, there are never-ending ways to stay involved on campus and find new people, places and things to enjoy while at UCA.