St. John's Music Video Showcases Students' Talent

Every day on the Queens campus, you’re likely to find a handful of students huddled around the baby grand piano in the D’Angelo Center lobby. And if you stop and listen to their impromptu jam sessions, you’ll likely say to yourself, “Wow, these kids are good.”

Now you can see the musical talents of our students with your own eyes, anytime you want, by watching the “We Need a Dollar” music video. Written and performed by our students, the song parodies R&B star Aloe Blacc’s hit single, “I Need a Dollar” by using completely original, St. John’s-themed lyrics.

Directed by the Office of Institutional Advancement’s Giscard W. James ’05CPS, ’11MBA, the video tells the unique stories of eight different students and illustrates why support from alumni and friends – even the gift of just a single dollar – is so important.

“Our goal was to make a video that showcased our talents,” said Communications major Paige Acevedo ’12C, who wrote the song’s lyrics. “We all enjoyed singing and performing together, but that’s just a small part of what we do. Every week, we’re going to class, going to work-study, doing community service, attending games, working part-time and more. We juggle a lot, and we wanted the video to convey that – which it does!”

The song emphasizes how a gift of a single dollar can go a long way in furthering the education of St. John’s students. From scholarships to academics, campus activities to state-of-the-art facilities, your gift – no matter what the amount – will make a difference.

“St. John’s has become like my second home,” said History major Vincent Illuzzi ’12C, who plays guitar on the song. “I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it weren’t for the activities, friendships and connections I made on campus. I really owe a lot to the donors who have helped make my St. John’s experience so great.”

Some viewers may get a bit nostalgic while watching the “We Need a Dollar” music video, since it was filmed on the Queens campus and showcases many of its most recognizable landmarks, including the Great Lawn, Carnesecca Arena, St. John Hall, Belson Hall and St. Thomas More Church.

“I think anyone who has ever attended St. John’s can relate to this video,” said performer Marquise Harris ’14CPS, a sophomore studying Dramatic Arts, Film and Television. “You see us hanging out on the Great Lawn, walking past the church, playing music in the D’Angelo Center, and I think alumni who watch it will probably be reminded of the days when they were students at St. John’s. We’re following in their footsteps here on campus.”

Help spread the word about the “We Need a Dollar” music video! Share it on Facebook and Twitter and let’s see if we can get the video to go viral.

Additionally, be sure to click here and donate your own dollar to help our students get the most out of their St. John’s education!