The ANCSU Collegiate Meet 2024 held its Beat Contest at Livingstone Foundation International College, Dimapur, with vibrant performances that captivated the audience. The event drew students, faculty, and music lovers, all gathered to witness the Battle of the Bands, where seven college bands competed for the coveted title.

Reigning champions Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung, delivered a stellar performance that once again secured them the championship title. Their electrifying stage presence and exceptional musical skills reinforced their reputation as the leading college band, capturing the hearts of the judges. Sazolie College, Kohima, took the position of 1st runner-up.

The competition also saw the distribution of individual awards to outstanding performers across various instrumental categories:

Best Vocalist – Kekhrie Tepa from Sazolie College, Kohima

Best Drummer – Marcus Sophie from Sazolie College, Kohima

Best Bassist – Bangkhlim from Patkai Christian College, Chümoukedima

Best Lead Guitarist – Jongshi LKR from Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung

Best Pianist – Ruveo Cukhamu from Patkai Christian College, Chümoukedima

The judges evaluated each band’s performance based on several key criteria: band chemistry, structure and technicalities, showmanship and stage presence, time management, and crowd engagement

The bands from Patkai College (Chümoukedima), Immanuel College (Dimapur), Sazolie College (Kohima), Fazl Ali College (Mokokchung), Kross College (Kohima), Baptist College (Kohima), and the host institution, Livingstone Foundation International College (Dimapur), showcased their unique styles, talent, and passion. Each band brought its own flair, from powerful rock ballads to soulful performances that had the crowd cheering throughout. The Beat Contest saw all participating bands perform their own renditions of the classic rock anthem “You Give Love A Bad Name” by Bon Jovi.

Special Guest Neibalie Rio, Special Officer to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, delivered an inspiring speech to the young crowd, emphasizing the importance of responsibility in life. He began by drawing an analogy to product advisories, noting how even harmful products like tobacco and alcohol carry warnings – “Chewing Tobacco is injurious to health” or “Drink responsibly” for alcohol. He used this as a segue to stress that individuals, too, need to live responsibly and embrace their duties.

Rio addressed the students directly, reminding them that they are the future leaders of tomorrow. “Some of you may pursue careers in music, or any other fields, but whatever path you choose, you will one day take over the stage and speak to the leaders of the future,” he said. He encouraged the students to embrace responsibility, not shy away from it, and highlighted that true success has no shortcuts. “Hard work is the only key to success,” he concluded, urging the students to strive diligently toward their goals.

The judging panel for this year’s Beat Contest featured renowned musicians with extensive experience and accomplishments:

Clement Imsong – A seasoned vocalist from the band Lords of Rock (Nagaland) and founder of Rockstar Entertainment International (REI) in Singapore. Established in 2009, REI has promoted independent artists across Southeast Asia, Australia, the US, and Nagaland, collaborating with bands like Unearth (USA) and The Elliots (Australia). Clement holds an MSc in Business Management (Marketing) from the University of Bradford and is currently involved in business activities in Guwahati and Dimapur.

Yangkum Jinger – The talented drummer of Incipit, Yangkum has shared the stage with international bands like Helloween, MLTR, and White Lion. He has also played with multiple bands, including XTC, Fat Circus, and We The Giants. With over two decades of experience, he is also a dedicated music teacher at various institutions like Mountain Music Academy, Chord Institute of Music, and Hillspraise Music Academy.

Mankon Konyak – The lead guitarist of bands EXI and Chicken Head, Mankon is also a guitar instructor at Jam Tree, Octet School of Music, and Soul Music School. His expertise and flair added depth to the judging panel, as he assessed performances with a critical, professional eye.

Jungshi Aier – A highly skilled bassist, Jungshi has extensive experience in both live performance and studio recording, having worked with bands like Making Merry, Mad as March, and Papersky. A graduate of Musicians Institute in Los Angeles, he was awarded the Outstanding Student Award and has worked as a session bassist for notable projects, including the Netflix series Alma Matters. Jungshi also holds a Grade 8 certification in Vocals (Rock and Pop) from Trinity School London.

The evening began with a brief note by Imnawabang T. Longkumer, Social & Cultural Secretary of ANCSU. The event was hosted by Likhevi Yeptho and Hinohito Z Aye, who kept the energy high with their engaging interactions. The evening wrapped up with DJ Rhon taking over, treating attendees to a night of entertainment and celebration.