Juice Jam 2025: Ashe and Jordan Ward Take Syracuse’s Stage
Article by Natalie Fuscaldo, University Union Editorial Board
Staff Writer | Photo by Joe Zhao
University Union was thrilled to host its annual fall production of Juice Jam on the Quad last Saturday. Ashe headlined the event with opening support from Jordan Ward. They brought a music-filled, energetic afternoon to campus, attracting a crowd full of students—both fans of the artists and some who simply wanted to discover new music.
Jordan Ward, an R&B artist from St. Louis, Missouri, delivered a performance that ignited a fire of energy through the crowd. Performing his hit songs “FAMJAM4000,” “Lil Baby Crush,” and countless others, Jordan hyped up the crowd with an interactive call and response technique that created a memorable experience. His clothing style reflected his genre of music: an effortless but naturally cool outfit with a shirt of R&B artist Sade, declaring a clear influence on his own musical style. Syracuse freshman Sarah, shared her thoughts on the performance, saying Jordan’s set was “one of the most energetic performances I've experienced from an artist.”
Photo by Troy Conner
Ashe, a talented artist from San Jose, California, is known for her alternative pop music, but often incorporates hints of multiple genres like indie, folk, electronic, and jazz. She opened her set with “omw,” a standout song with a 70s-style groove that immediately caught the attention of the crowd, which had multiplied in size since her taking of the stage. She was dressed in a flowy, bright pink midi dress and no shoes, which is her typical performance attire. The crowd chanted all the lyrics of “Moral of The Story” and “Till Forever Falls Apart,” while some of her biggest fans, who had lined up at the barricade since the gates opened, sang along to every song performed. Syracuse freshman Carly, who knew a song or two of Ashe’s, said, “I didn’t know much of her music before today, but after watching her set, I want to listen to more of her music,” and freshman Dom, a huge fan of Ashe, shared that he was “utterly in shock of her presence.”
Photo by Joe Zhao
This year, Juice Jam was held on the University Quad, a major venue switch up from its usual location of the JMA Wireless Dome on campus. While the Dome provided for a more performance-centered event, this year’s outdoor venue allowed for a wide array of activities, such as inflatables, axe throwing, a photobooth, and multiple snack stations. Sophomore Chloe, who attended Block Party last spring, expressed how she loved how the event was held outdoors, and that she was “able to join the crowd easily because of its central location on campus.”
Photo by Asia Lising
Overall, Juice Jam was an absolute hit this year, with positive feedback all around. Jordan Ward and Ashe provided an unforgettable experience and an energy-filled afternoon for all attendees. For those who couldn’t attend, stay tuned for announcements about more entertainment events around campus!
