By Luke Glaser

It came down to a vote in the Student Activities Board office, and only a handful of people knew who would be performing in the annual spring concert.

Over the next few days, tantalizing hints leaked out on Facebook as to the identity of performers, though SAB kept the knowledge top secret.

Rumors and guesses were rampant as to who would be singing, but the best was saved for the actual announcement last Wednesday, according to Gigi Goble, the promotions chair for the concerts committee.

“Everyone is really excited about J. Cole and Gym Class Heroes,” she said. “It just seemed like what the student body would enjoy the most.”

Seth Murphy, director of concerts, said that student reactions have confirmed their pick for the spring concert.

“We felt confident that the artists would connect with the college crowd,” he said. “I’m really excited about this one.”

Murphy said the committee sought artists that would appeal to various types of students.

“We’ve had a good history with hip-hop concerts, and we’re looking to branch out to different genres,” he said. “They (the artists) fit together in one show.”

J. Cole, a rapper who released his first album in 2009, has quickly ascended through the music world with songs like “Work Out” and “Can’t Get Enough.” His work has garnered him a 2012 Grammy nomination for Best New Artist.

Gym Class Heroes, whose style Murphy described as “rap and rock,” have been on the music scene since 1997. They have recently been brought to prominence by singer Travie McCoy’s solo career and the band’s collaboration with Maroon 5 in “Stereo Hearts.”

Both Goble and Murphy are excited to be working for students to bring the concert to UK. “It’s gonna be a great show at Memorial Coliseum,” Goble said. “It’s put on by the students, for the students.”

Tickets go on sale today for students only, and range in price depending on seating. Students must have a valid UK Student ID to purchase a ticket, and can present up to four additional IDs for a total of five tickets.

Ticket sales will be open to the general public  Feb. 22.

Sitting or standing, upper or lower, student or anything else, Murphy encourages all to come out for the show.

“It’s a great opportunity to see really good acts at a really small price,” he said.