The second Tiny Den Concert: Howl Entertainment ft. Aniya Teno and Sozi took place on March 9th, 2023. This concert was a free concert that featured student artist Aniya Teno and local New Orleans artist Sozi. Both artists performed about one to two individual songs, and also performed a song they collaborated on together right here in Loyola’s recording studios.
During the performance, there were a few surprises. Aniya gave the audience a sneak peak of a song called "Impulsive" that is set to drop on March 31st. This song is a product of her music group “7TEN” music that also features student musician Deven Raval. Sozi brought up our very own Popular and Commercial music Professor, Liz Dellinger aka Saint Mercedes to help him sing one of his songs.
After the event, I was able to interview both the founder of Howl Entertainment Genesis Merritt, and Aniya Teno separately and together.
Genesis Merritt:
What inspired you to start Howl Entertainment?
Howl Entertainment actually started as just the Tiny Den, but then it turned into an entertainment organization. However, the reason I started it all is because I felt like “there was a lack of family and community at Loyola when it came to the Music, Marketing and Fashion departments.” I wanted to “build a community at Loyola while also involving the outside community.”
What is a long term goal for Howl Entertainment?
I'd like to incorporate “other schools as well so it would be a connection to other people outside of Loyola like Dillard and Xavier.”
Aniya Teno:
When did you begin your career as an artist?
“I began writing songs when I was twelve years old and recording and producing since 16.” It has been about ten years that she has been writing songs and trying to find what genre she belongs in.
Where do you see yourself after college and then in five years?
After college I hope to be doing something in the “music supervision or licensing paths while also focusing on my artistry.” In five years I see myself in LA working on being an artist whether it be full or part time.
Genesis and Aniya
How do you felt about the planning/processing of the event and the outcome?
Genesis : It was stressful, it was worth it in the end and I felt like “it turned out good.”
Aniya: The process was definitely smooth because Genesis and Margaret are very good organizers and they know what they are doing, who to call and what we need. The event went really well as well from making sure the audio for the livestream was good and it felt very smooth from beginning to end.
Speaking to Genesis and Aniya highlighted the level of work and collaboration happening behind the scenes to produce events like Tiny Den.
Be on the lookout for upcoming events from Howl Entertainment featuring student and local New Orleans’ artists!
