COVID-19 has forced many companies to cancel their events this summer, but it did not prevent the music production company 7233 Roots from hosting its first-ever award show at 7:23 p.m. Saturday.
Owned and operated by FAMU students, 7233 Roots is hosting the 2020 Legends Awards that will be streamed live on Instagram for anyone to attend. The awards show is nominating fellow Rattlers.
The company was created by two FAMU students, Chretien Adams and Tamieyah Johnson, in April 2019. Adams, a senior from Atlanta majoring in music industry, described how the company came to be.
“This all started because I had been making music and producing for all of my friends at FAMU ever since I got here freshman year,” Adams said. “Since I had begun producing and helping my friends make music, Tamieyah brought the idea to me to start a business, because so many people were asking us about it.”
Adams’ home in Atlanta inspired the name of the company. His home address is 7233, and the place is his foundation as a musician.
The company recently formed a music label called H.O.M.E, an acronym for Here Only Musicians Exist. The company recruited artists that they have already been working with for years. Others are scouted out via the internet to see if they are a fit for their H.O.M.E.
Johnson, a senior from Miami who is also majoring in music industry, said promoting the awards show during the pandemic and ongoing societal injustice has been a challenge.
“It is very hard for me to articulate how I feel about what’s going on in the world today, but I want to be clear. We are here to spread light and love,” Johnson said. “To be positive and inspirational and uplift our people during these turbulent times. 7233 Roots Music is about more than the music. It’s about our family — all of you. We are all a part of the human race, and the music unifies us beyond what anything tangible could.”
Nevertheless, Johnson says the awards show will be filled with music and celebration to honor the local artists and support their dreams.
Erika Johnson, a nominee in the best vocalist and best performance categories, said she is thrilled to be part of Saturday’s show.
“When I discovered I was fortunate to be considered for these categories, I felt overwhelmed with joy,” said Erika Johnson. “This award show will be a pioneer for the music community here on FAMU’s campus. I’m excited to see what is in store for this label.”
Adams also shared his excitement for the online awards show and what the people can look forward to on Saturday.
“I am very excited for the awards show. There are so many great artists that are involved, singers, dancers, rappers. It is going to be very entertaining, and we plan to put on a great show for everyone to see and recognize the talent and skill of Tallahassee artists.”
The last day to vote is Thursday. For more information or updates, check the Instagram page @7233roots.