When asked what musical artists influenced their lives the most, five Kent State students responded with an array of musicians.

ASHLEY FOSTER, SOPHOMORE MAGAZINE JOURNALISM MAJOR

“(Mary J. Blige) is uplifting even when she is at her lowest points,” Foster said.

Blige’s lyrics speak to women and focus on independence, which, Foster said, translates over into her own life and has made a difference in the way she acts.

KRISTEN IGNAT, SOPHOMORE NURSING MAJOR

Ignat said Dave Matthews Band has had an impact on her life because of the mostly peaceful songs they play.

“They make you happy,” Ignat said.

ANASTASA WILLIAMS, SENIOR ENGLISH MAJOR

Williams said she is open to just about anything music-wise but has been influenced positively by Relient K, a pop-punk band from Canton.

“I started listening when I was younger – when you’re trying to find yourself,” Williams said.

A.J. HUGHES, SOPHOMORE HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATIONS MAJOR

“I like Blink-182 because in middle school, I had just moved to the state, and they were a way for me to connect to kids because they listened to them, too,” Hughes said.

ANDY ZLATOPER, JUNIOR HISTORY MAJOR

Zlatoper never listened to heavy metal music until his friend introduced him to In Flames.

“They’re my favorite band. Their music is a stress-relief for me,” Zlatoper said.

– Laura Lofgren