Joe Hogue, a senior at the University of Mississippi, has been leaving his mark through the Oxford community. His musical aspirations and entrepreneurship can be seen all around town. Hogue has founded an organization called Pop-up Ox4d, where local fashion vendors come together to participate in a town-wide market. Hogue is also a member of the band Uni, where he plays guitar and sings. This band has landed gigs opening up for artists like Happy Landing. Hogue also has his own solo  efforts, as he has independently performed at bars and restaurants throughout Oxford. Hogue always had an interest in being a musician, and he is excited to perform on stages across his hometown.

“I have always been super into music,” Hogue said. “I did theater and choir growing up, and had some extended family that was musically inclined. What truly got me to play a guitar is when my high school girlfriend said she liked Harry Styles, so I learned one of his songs to impress her. I started live shows when I found out about open mic nights in college, and I just kept going.”

Through the band Uni, Hogue has learned how valuable collaboration can be. His bandmates are also his best friends in college, and the ability to work with them has given Hogue a new perspective on teamwork and partnership. His time with Uni has taught him the positives of not only working with others musically, but in all circumstances.

“Playing shows with my friends will always be the most fun thing in the world,” Hogue said. “I think having talented people around you is essential for the progression of music. You always should surround yourself with people who are better than you at something so that you can strive to become greater. That goes for a lot more than music.”

Another one of Hogue’s endeavors has been Pop-up Ox4d, which has grown tremendously. The pop-up is organized a couple of times a year, with an emphasis on vintage streetwear. Hogue’s main motivation for starting this event is to support vendors throughout Oxford.

“The overall vision for Pop-up Ox4d is to bring the community together and support local vendors within the region,” Hogue said.

Pop-up Ox4d has been a huge success for Hogue, as it has become a much anticipated event every time it is announced. Attendance for the pop-up has grown rapidly over the years, and Hogue is continuously learning how to organize such large events.

“I am figuring out more everyday about what it takes to manage and maintain these events,” Hogue said. “The main thing I have learned recently is to let other people who share your vision help you.”

Whether it is with his music or entrepreneurship, Hogue plans on taking his skills and experiences to other places post-graduation. At only 23, Hogue still has much he wants to accomplish in the
future.

“I have to remember that I always have something new to learn,” Hogue said. “For my future plans and endeavors, I see myself moving from Oxford in the next year or so and growing somewhere else. I will continue to pursue my passions, and I still have more ideas for Pop-up Ox4d as well.”