Somaaa

People in Bowling Green, KY, now know who Cinnaminson’s Zack Hanni is.

But they know him as Somaaa—an electronic artist who won a remix contest sponsored by rock band Cage the Elephant. Somaaa performed Friday at the Starry Nights Festival sponsored by the band.

“For the next few days,” Hanni said, “people would recognize me. I was really surprised.”

Hanni entered and won a remix contest where the grand prize was performing in front of thousands of people at Cage the Elephant’s Starry Nights Festival in Kentucky. Hanni, as Somaaa, was the grand prize winner and got a 45-minute set last Friday.

“It went really well,” Hanni said. “There were some mistakes on stage as far as my computer messing up—but people didn’t really notice.”

Hanni’s stage show was full too complete with hula-hoop dancers he met 20 minutes before he took the stage.

Before and after the show, he rubbed elbows with some bands that were also on the bill. He also met fans afterward.

“Everyone was just so pumped up,” he said. “Everyone was really excited and it really pumped me up too.”

Hanni signed some autographs, sold merchandise and answered questions to his new fans.

“A lot of people just crowded around and wanted to talk to me,” he said.

It’s been a busy couple of weeks for the Cinnaminson native—he released two albums-worth of music available for purchase or free download.

He’s working on getting more shows booked in the Murfreesboro, Tenn. area where he goes to college and studies recording.

“When I go back to New Jersey,” he said, “I have a few things lined up already.” - Cinnaminson Patch

Cage the Elephant and the people have spoken. Zack Hanni aka Somaaa is the favorite of both tribes in our Creative Invite, and we’re pleased to announce he’ll be performing at Starry Nights Festival in Bowling Green, Kentucky!

The Tennesseean dance/electronic producer, who was also the highest voted musician, will enjoy a meet and greet with Cage the Elephant at the festival. He’s been producing for about 5 years and his specialty is Electro House. Check him out on Soundcloud.

Cage the Elephant said:

We picked Somaaa because his remix was fantastic, and because the people chose him. We were also so excited to hear that he lives in TN, because we want to celebrate the great music in the region. We can’t wait to see what he brings to his DJ set!

Congratulations Zack! We know you’ll shine when your moment takes place.

Thanks to all who submitted! We respect your work and hope to hear more soon. - Talenthouse