VCU’s Back to School Jam Featuring Asher Roth Sparks Community Debate
As Virginia Commonwealth University prepares to welcome students back to campus, an upcoming Back to School Jam featuring Asher Roth and B.o.B. is stirring up controversy. The August 28th concert, set to take place at VCU’s Siegel Center, has drawn criticism from community leaders who believe the artist’s image clashes with the values of higher education. As a result, there’s a lot of discussion surrounding the event.
Anti-Drug Groups Voice Concern Over Message to Students
Leading the opposition is Denise D. Miller, president of the Regional Drug Free Alliance and chairwoman of the Parents Council of Commonwealth Parenting. In a statement to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, Miller voiced her concern. Thus, stating, “Having this artist come to the campus normalizes inappropriate, illegal and unhealthy behaviors.”
She added that Roth’s presence could lower the expectations students set for themselves, especially given the lyrical content of his breakout hit, “I Love College.” The song, which gained popularity in 2009, includes lines like:
“Drink my beer and smoke my weed but my good friends is all I need / Pass out at 3, wake up at 10, go out to eat then do it again / Man, I love college.”
Such lyrics have sparked concern that Roth promotes a party-centric lifestyle. As a result, some believe it sends the wrong message to young adults navigating academic responsibilities. So, this is something to consider.
$100,000 Price Tag Draws Additional Scrutiny
Adding to the criticism is the concert’s $100,000 price tag. It’s a cost that Miller emphasized is ultimately being covered by student funds. The event is part of VCU’s Welcome Week programming. Also, it is funded through the Student Programming Commission.
“It’s disappointing,” Miller said. “This kind of money should be invested in more constructive events that uplift and support student success.” Now, more people have commentary about this price. Also, Miller has aforementioned issues with his asking price and his conduct.
VCU Defends Student Choice and Artistic Freedom
In response to the backlash, VCU officials and student leaders have defended their decision to book the artists, noting that student opinion played a central role in the selection process. According to Adele McClure, president of the Monroe Park Student Government Association, the artists were chosen based on surveys and social media input.
“We wanted performers that our students actually want to see. Asher Roth and B.o.B. were among the most requested,” McClure explained.
As for the suggestion to ask Roth to refrain from performing “I Love College,” McClure was skeptical. “If he was singing any other song, people would be like, ‘Who is this guy?'”
Student Reactions Are Mixed
Opinions among students on campus vary. On one hand, some agree with Miller’s concerns. However, others view the criticism as overblown. Meanwhile, some of the students have voiced their opinions.
“Honestly, I think it’s fine,” said Hannah Badaway, a senior at VCU. “He’s an artist. He can sing about whatever he wants, and people should be smart enough not to do all of that and let it get to their grades. You should know not to do that every single day. On the weekends, it’s fine.”
Asher Roth: The Artist Behind the Controversy
Asher Roth rose to fame with his debut album “Asleep in the Bread Aisle” released in April 2009. His breakout single, “I Love College,” became an anthem for party-loving students across the country. However, Roth’s work has evolved since then. In 2010, he released a second mixtape and is currently working on his second album titled “The Spaghetti Tree.”
The first single off the new album, “G.R.I.N.D. (Get Ready It’s a New Day),” reflects a more motivational tone. Roth has been touring radio stations across the country to promote the single and is currently running a contest for fans to submit music videos. Despite the controversy surrounding his past lyrics, Roth’s current work appears to be shifting toward more introspective and positive themes.
B.o.B. Adds Star Power to the Event
Also set to perform at the VCU event is B.o.B., who is riding high off the success of two #1 singles, “Nothin’ on You” and “Airplanes,” both of which earned VMA nominations. Known for his genre-blending style, B.o.B. brings a broader musical diversity to the event, balancing the bill with mainstream appeal.
Unlike Roth, B.o.B. has not drawn the same criticism, with many seeing his inclusion as a highlight of the concert. His popularity with both college students and mainstream audiences makes him a strong draw for VCU’s Welcome Week celebration.
Balancing Entertainment with Responsibility
The debate surrounding the Asher Roth VCU concert highlights a recurring challenge for universities across the country: balancing student entertainment with public perception and responsibility. College campuses are meant to be spaces for both intellectual growth and personal freedom, and what some see as artistic expression, others view as irresponsible promotion.
“This is a teachable moment,” said one university staff member who asked to remain anonymous. “Rather than silencing artists, we should be educating students on making informed decisions.” Meanwhile, the discourse continues. As a result, there are plenty of people who have a lot to say. However, when it all boils down to it, the members of the student body decides.
Final Decision Lies with the Students
Ultimately, the choice to host Asher Roth and B.o.B. belongs to the student body. As long as the performers are booked legally and within budget, it reflects student preferences. While opposition from organizations like the Regional Drug Free Alliance remains strong, VCU leadership is standing by its Programming Commission.
“We respect differing opinions,” said McClure, “but we believe in giving our students the freedom to engage with the music they enjoy, while also promoting awareness and responsibility.”
With the concert only days away, all eyes are on how Asher Roth will navigate the criticism and whether “I Love College” makes the final setlist. Either way, the conversation sparked by this controversy underscores the power of music and messaging in shaping campus culture. Ultimately, Asher Roth is one of the most-popular rising rappers in the game.
