Washington, D.C. - Let's Groove ... Can't get enough of that funky stuff ... Can't get enough of that funky stuff ... I said, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa..., yeah ...
Whether its Earth, Wind & Fire or Kool and the Gang, HBCU Bands are rocking the house this season with innovation, marching creativity, rap, ole school songs, and exceptional musicianship that is sure to please any die hard critic or connoisseur that follows the HBCU football circuit.
This posting is not about who is the best ... no contest, as Florida A&M University Marching 100 sets the standards for all others to follow.
The FAMU 100'rd marches 420 members -- all first chair musicians from their respective high schools from all across the United States and have been the innovators of the modern marching bands since 1946, the year that the legendary Dr. William P. Foster, started implementing his vision for college bands.
There is no debate here, as this is my blog!
It's more about the high quality of the HBCU marching band programs, be it small schools like Livingstone, Fort Valley State or Benedict; or median sized programs like Tennessee State, Norfolk State or Prairie View. Or the super-sized programs like Bethune-Cookman, Alabama State, Southern, Jackson State. The outcomes are the same -- exceptional marching performances with superb musicianship that connects with all age groups and genres.
Our favorite teams and bands may differ and that's perfectly OK, but you gotta make it to the nearest HBCU stadium to take in a few of the football games. Ole school, new school, high school, and those that never attended an HBCU -- the band battles alone is worth the price of the tickets and 3-4 hours of entertainment. Plus, a great family atmosphere with out-of-sight B-B-Q ribs, chicken, fried fish, and so forth sold by the local vendors -- are worth all the efforts in fighting the game day traffic to arrive at your favorite HBCU stadium.
Did I mention there is some hellacious football being played by our teams in their battle for conference supremacy?
Most importantly, all the students are the real winners -- for the countless hundreds of hours dedicated to perfecting their craft that brings us so much athletic and musical enjoyment. If you have not experienced an HBCU game day, this is a must see activity before you leave this planet!
Now, let's groove.
-beepbeep
Showing posts with label HBCU Bands. Show all posts
Showing posts with label HBCU Bands. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Monday, February 14, 2011
Step Aside FCS....Here Comes the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference
With incoming head football coaches Rod Broadway (67-27 career) at North Carolina A&T, Henry Frazier (69-55 career) at North Carolina Central, Kermit Blount (91-87-3) at Delaware State, Gary "Flea" Harrell (0-0) at Howard University and Steve Davenport (0-0) at Savannah State, the MEAC just got 50 percent better than last year.
North Carolina native Broadway, served 22 years as a Division I, FBS defensive assistant coach, mostly under Steve Spurrier at Florida and Duke. He also coached at East Carolina and North Carolina. His resume includes: a Division I-A National Championship (1996) at Florida; CIAA Championships (2005, 2006) as head coach at N.C. Central; CIAA Coach of the Year Award (2006); and 2006 AFCA National Coach of the Year (Division II) award.
Not bad for a former defensive lineman, that played his college ball at North Carolina and spent his entire career coaching the defensive line. At Grambling State, Broadway compiled a record of 35-14 and won the SWAC Championship in his second season (2008) as head coach of the Tigers.
Frazier has served as the head football coach at his alma mater, Bowie State University (1999–2003) and at Prairie View A&M University (2004-2010). The former CIAA quarterback was able to lead PVAMU to a 43–30 record, including the 2009 SWAC Championship. Coach Frazier was recognized for his total body of work in resurrecting the Panthers program and was honored with the Eddie Robinson Award in 2009. This award is given annually to college football's top head coach in the Division I, Football Championship Subdivision (1-AA).
Upon his resignation at Prairie View A&M in December 2010 to take the NCCU job, Frazier was the second winningest coach in Prairie View A&M football history.
Coach Kermit Blount has gained the reputation over the years as a builder of men. Blount has served in his career as an offensive coordinator (1984-89) under College Football Hall of Fame Coach Willie Jefferies at Howard University and South Carolina State University. Blount won a MEAC championship in 1987, before returning to his alma mater, Winston Salem State University, as the head coach (1993).
He won two CIAA championships (1999, 2000) and improved the WSSU players' graduation rate from 42% in 1993 to 80% by 2009.
Both Gary Harrell and Steve Davenport are first time head coaches, but each has assembled a coaching staff that is ready to compete. Let's not forget the success of Bethune-Cookman's Coach Brian Jenkins that lead the Wildcats to a portion of the MEAC Championship and the FCS Playoffs in his first season as a head coach. He too, was a long time assistant Division I, FBS position coach.
With Coach Joe Taylor at Florida A&M, the American Football Coaches Association Region 2 and 2010 MEAC Coach of the Year - Brian Jenkins at Bethune Cookman, Oliver "Buddy" Pough at South Carolina State, Donald Hill-Eley at Morgan State, Pete Adrian at Norfolk State, and Donovan Rose at Hampton, the MEAC has the potential to become a powerhouse football conference overnight.
It is no longer a league for under-achieving players and under performing coaches. Expectations are high for great performances not only in the classroom, but on the gridiron and weight rooms as well. The administrations have raised the bar. The fans are demanding more for their financial support of the athletic programs. And athletic directors know their jobs are on the line if they do not deliver a championship product on the field.
Let's not forget parity of the conference this past season which ended in a three-way tie for the championship. Florida A&M ruined Bethune-Cookman's perfect, undefeated season and earned a share of the conference crown with the Wildcats and South Carolina State. The Bulldogs and Wildcats lost in the initial round of the FCS playoffs, with B-CU earning a first round bye.
The 2011 season will be even more exciting with the infusion of proven winners -- Broadway and Frazier--both bringing a championship mentality and wide-open brand of football over from the Southwestern Athletic Conference. We all know how well Grambling State and Prairie View dominated the SWAC competition under the experienced eyes of Broadway and Frazier. Expect more of the same in the MEAC.
What Delaware State lacks this season in pure athletic talent, Coach Blount will make the Hornets competitive right away with a powerful offensive game and tough defense. The only question is how quickly can Savannah State and Howard become competitive with new commitments from their Administrations. We believe they hired the right guys for their situations, but they need time to put the pieces together to build the programs.
Parity is the right word to use in describing the new MEAC, as there will be "no cupcakes" in this conference in a 2-3 years. At least not in football competition.
So get ready to move over Colonial Athletic, Southern, and Ohio Valley conferences as its a new day in the Football Championship Subdivision.
High Quality Players returning to HBCUs
If you don't believe me, check out the outstanding haul of three and four-star players that signed National Letters of Intent with MEAC institutions. Who would have thought that Bethune-Cookman would ink 2010 Florida Mr. Football, record-setting quarterback Quentin Williams. Williams led Tampa Jefferson (15-0) to the 3A state championship and rewrote the Florida passing record lists, with new standards for yards in a season (4,451) and career (10,384) and TDs in a season (56) and career (109).
Florida A&M may have the second best class overall, signing 24 of 25 players on their draft board, including quarterback Tyler Bass, a transfer from Memphis, Casey Turner, a star running back transfer from Rutgers and a bunch of stud linemen to build depth on both lines. Coach Taylor describes the class as his best ever, since taking over the Rattlers program. Don't expect the Rattlers to not make the FCS playoffs in 2011, as Taylor has a stable of smart and athletically sound players returning.
S.C. State as always, snatched the best skill players in the state and is loaded with redshirt talent from last year's signing class. The Bulldogs will be in contention again for the conference championship and a playoff berth, if they can survive a September schedule with road stops at Central Michigan, Bethune-Cookman and Indiana University (Bloomington) before their home opener with Delaware State.
Coach Pough also has a difficult month of October, with Norfolk State on the road and NCCU coming in for an early homecoming. Georgia State is next at home for the Bulldogs and you may not want to call the Panthers a "cupcake," who went 6-5 in its first season, knocking off both SSU and NCCU at the Georgia Dome.
MEAC improving in Attendance
The FAMU brand is also at the top in Football Championship Subdivision in 2010 home attendance. The Rattlers were ranked #11 out of 117 FCS (#2 in HBCUs) programs in home attendance with 15,913 average for four home games.
Both Gary Harrell and Steve Davenport are first time head coaches, but each has assembled a coaching staff that is ready to compete. Let's not forget the success of Bethune-Cookman's Coach Brian Jenkins that lead the Wildcats to a portion of the MEAC Championship and the FCS Playoffs in his first season as a head coach. He too, was a long time assistant Division I, FBS position coach.
With Coach Joe Taylor at Florida A&M, the American Football Coaches Association Region 2 and 2010 MEAC Coach of the Year - Brian Jenkins at Bethune Cookman, Oliver "Buddy" Pough at South Carolina State, Donald Hill-Eley at Morgan State, Pete Adrian at Norfolk State, and Donovan Rose at Hampton, the MEAC has the potential to become a powerhouse football conference overnight.
It is no longer a league for under-achieving players and under performing coaches. Expectations are high for great performances not only in the classroom, but on the gridiron and weight rooms as well. The administrations have raised the bar. The fans are demanding more for their financial support of the athletic programs. And athletic directors know their jobs are on the line if they do not deliver a championship product on the field.
Let's not forget parity of the conference this past season which ended in a three-way tie for the championship. Florida A&M ruined Bethune-Cookman's perfect, undefeated season and earned a share of the conference crown with the Wildcats and South Carolina State. The Bulldogs and Wildcats lost in the initial round of the FCS playoffs, with B-CU earning a first round bye.
The 2011 season will be even more exciting with the infusion of proven winners -- Broadway and Frazier--both bringing a championship mentality and wide-open brand of football over from the Southwestern Athletic Conference. We all know how well Grambling State and Prairie View dominated the SWAC competition under the experienced eyes of Broadway and Frazier. Expect more of the same in the MEAC.
What Delaware State lacks this season in pure athletic talent, Coach Blount will make the Hornets competitive right away with a powerful offensive game and tough defense. The only question is how quickly can Savannah State and Howard become competitive with new commitments from their Administrations. We believe they hired the right guys for their situations, but they need time to put the pieces together to build the programs.
Parity is the right word to use in describing the new MEAC, as there will be "no cupcakes" in this conference in a 2-3 years. At least not in football competition.
So get ready to move over Colonial Athletic, Southern, and Ohio Valley conferences as its a new day in the Football Championship Subdivision.
High Quality Players returning to HBCUs
If you don't believe me, check out the outstanding haul of three and four-star players that signed National Letters of Intent with MEAC institutions. Who would have thought that Bethune-Cookman would ink 2010 Florida Mr. Football, record-setting quarterback Quentin Williams. Williams led Tampa Jefferson (15-0) to the 3A state championship and rewrote the Florida passing record lists, with new standards for yards in a season (4,451) and career (10,384) and TDs in a season (56) and career (109).
Florida A&M may have the second best class overall, signing 24 of 25 players on their draft board, including quarterback Tyler Bass, a transfer from Memphis, Casey Turner, a star running back transfer from Rutgers and a bunch of stud linemen to build depth on both lines. Coach Taylor describes the class as his best ever, since taking over the Rattlers program. Don't expect the Rattlers to not make the FCS playoffs in 2011, as Taylor has a stable of smart and athletically sound players returning.
S.C. State as always, snatched the best skill players in the state and is loaded with redshirt talent from last year's signing class. The Bulldogs will be in contention again for the conference championship and a playoff berth, if they can survive a September schedule with road stops at Central Michigan, Bethune-Cookman and Indiana University (Bloomington) before their home opener with Delaware State.
Coach Pough also has a difficult month of October, with Norfolk State on the road and NCCU coming in for an early homecoming. Georgia State is next at home for the Bulldogs and you may not want to call the Panthers a "cupcake," who went 6-5 in its first season, knocking off both SSU and NCCU at the Georgia Dome.
MEAC improving in Attendance
The FAMU brand is also at the top in Football Championship Subdivision in 2010 home attendance. The Rattlers were ranked #11 out of 117 FCS (#2 in HBCUs) programs in home attendance with 15,913 average for four home games.
This was better than Division I, FBS program attendance at Eastern Michigan 15,885, Miami (OH) 15,559, Ball State 8,947, Bowling Green 13,306, Buffalo 12,981, Akron 10,105, Florida Atlantic 14,425, Idaho 12,730, New Mexico State 15,906, San Jose State 14,474, Western Kentucky 14,577 and Western Michigan 14,255.
South Carolina State was ranked #13 out of 117 FCS programs (#3 in HBCUs) with a 14,862 average for five home contests. This was better than nine of the twelve Division I FBS programs listed above.
The Rattlers and Bethune-Cookman attracted 61,712 to their annual neutral site Florida Classic battle at the Orlando Citrus Bowl with a national television audience watching. The same was repeated with the Atlanta Football Classic, FAMU vs. Tennessee State with 52,202 in attendance. The game was televised live by Versus nationally.
Let us share with you another positive fact about the MEAC.
The NCAA data does not include neutral site games into the average per home game computations. In other words, the MEAC's best attended games--the Florida Classic and the Atlanta Football Classic are not included in the average attendance numbers. If it was included in the data for 2010, FAMU average attendance would be 29,594 or 4,000 fans per game average better than FCS #1, Appalachian State.
And Jackson State's Southwestern Athletic Conference leading average would be 27,564, not 24,140 as indicated in the report.
So, what does that tell you?
The MEAC did better in attendance in 2010 than some Sun-Belt, Western Athletic and Mid-American conference teams playing on the Division I, FBS level.
With the World-renowned Florida A&M University Marching 100, the Rattlers helped University of Miami set its third highest attendance record at Sun Life Stadium with 53,674 in 2010. Expect more of the same when the Rattlers visit University of South Florida on September 17, 2011. The last FAMU game in 2005 drew an announced crowd of 43,122, then the second-largest crowd ever to see the USF Bulls at Raymond James Stadium.
MEAC programs like the FAMU brand is returning to its former glory with top student-athletes selecting the Rattlers and the MEAC over FBC programs. No doubt, Florida A&M and other conference programs have a better academic reputation and a very long history of placing great players into the NFL.
For some parents, the MEAC institutions offers an opportunity for guaranteed success both in the classroom and in the field of completion. More importantly, most student-athletes are walking away in 4-5 years having earned their undergraduate degrees and ready to take on the challenges of life.
With the MEAC experimenting with video replay for ESPN televised games next season, the conference front office has really gotten serious about the quality of its football. Now that everyone is on the same page, it will be interesting to see how the out-of conference schedule plays out.
South Carolina State was ranked #13 out of 117 FCS programs (#3 in HBCUs) with a 14,862 average for five home contests. This was better than nine of the twelve Division I FBS programs listed above.
The Rattlers and Bethune-Cookman attracted 61,712 to their annual neutral site Florida Classic battle at the Orlando Citrus Bowl with a national television audience watching. The same was repeated with the Atlanta Football Classic, FAMU vs. Tennessee State with 52,202 in attendance. The game was televised live by Versus nationally.
Let us share with you another positive fact about the MEAC.
The NCAA data does not include neutral site games into the average per home game computations. In other words, the MEAC's best attended games--the Florida Classic and the Atlanta Football Classic are not included in the average attendance numbers. If it was included in the data for 2010, FAMU average attendance would be 29,594 or 4,000 fans per game average better than FCS #1, Appalachian State.
And Jackson State's Southwestern Athletic Conference leading average would be 27,564, not 24,140 as indicated in the report.
So, what does that tell you?
The MEAC did better in attendance in 2010 than some Sun-Belt, Western Athletic and Mid-American conference teams playing on the Division I, FBS level.
With the World-renowned Florida A&M University Marching 100, the Rattlers helped University of Miami set its third highest attendance record at Sun Life Stadium with 53,674 in 2010. Expect more of the same when the Rattlers visit University of South Florida on September 17, 2011. The last FAMU game in 2005 drew an announced crowd of 43,122, then the second-largest crowd ever to see the USF Bulls at Raymond James Stadium.
MEAC programs like the FAMU brand is returning to its former glory with top student-athletes selecting the Rattlers and the MEAC over FBC programs. No doubt, Florida A&M and other conference programs have a better academic reputation and a very long history of placing great players into the NFL.
For some parents, the MEAC institutions offers an opportunity for guaranteed success both in the classroom and in the field of completion. More importantly, most student-athletes are walking away in 4-5 years having earned their undergraduate degrees and ready to take on the challenges of life.
With the MEAC experimenting with video replay for ESPN televised games next season, the conference front office has really gotten serious about the quality of its football. Now that everyone is on the same page, it will be interesting to see how the out-of conference schedule plays out.
Out-of-conference schedules stronger
Viewing the few schedules that have been released so far, 2011 should be a bumper year in attendance and support for the MEAC with high quality opponents filling out the schedules. Here's a quick look of the 2011 MEAC out-of conference games:
BCU vs. Miami, Oct. 1
BCU vs. Fort Valley State, Oct. 15
FAMU vs. Fort Valley State, Sept. 3
FAMU vs. South Florida, Sept. 17
FAMU vs. Southern, Sept. 24
SCSU vs. Central Michigan, Sept. 1
SCSU vs. Indiana, Sept. 17
SCSU vs. Georgia State, Oct. 15
SSU vs. Albany State, Sept. 3
SSU vs. Southeastern Louisiana, Sept. 10
SSU vs. Appalachian State, Sept. 17
NCAT vs. Appalachian State, Sept. 10
NCCU vs. Rutgers, Sept. 1
NCCU vs. Central State, Sept. 10
NCCU vs. Elon, Sept. 17
NSU vs. VSU, Sept. 3
NSU vs. West Virginia, Sept. 10
NSU vs. Charles Southern, Sept. 14
Hampton vs. AAMU, Sept.3
We are always reminded that the reason most women come to the games are for the half-time shows. With new members Savannah State and North Carolina Central, expect major improvements in their marching band programs along with their quick growth in football competition. The SSU Tigers have a tremendous upside, and having a head coach that coached and recruited in Atlanta and the backwoods of Georgia is a major plus. The former Georgia state high school coach of the year recruited the region as a position coach at the University of Alabama-Birmingham and played his college ball at Georgia Tech.
Viewing the few schedules that have been released so far, 2011 should be a bumper year in attendance and support for the MEAC with high quality opponents filling out the schedules. Here's a quick look of the 2011 MEAC out-of conference games:
BCU vs. Miami, Oct. 1
BCU vs. Fort Valley State, Oct. 15
FAMU vs. Fort Valley State, Sept. 3
FAMU vs. South Florida, Sept. 17
FAMU vs. Southern, Sept. 24
SCSU vs. Central Michigan, Sept. 1
SCSU vs. Indiana, Sept. 17
SCSU vs. Georgia State, Oct. 15
SSU vs. Albany State, Sept. 3
SSU vs. Southeastern Louisiana, Sept. 10
SSU vs. Appalachian State, Sept. 17
NCAT vs. Appalachian State, Sept. 10
NCCU vs. Rutgers, Sept. 1
NCCU vs. Central State, Sept. 10
NCCU vs. Elon, Sept. 17
NSU vs. VSU, Sept. 3
NSU vs. West Virginia, Sept. 10
NSU vs. Charles Southern, Sept. 14
Hampton vs. AAMU, Sept.3
We are always reminded that the reason most women come to the games are for the half-time shows. With new members Savannah State and North Carolina Central, expect major improvements in their marching band programs along with their quick growth in football competition. The SSU Tigers have a tremendous upside, and having a head coach that coached and recruited in Atlanta and the backwoods of Georgia is a major plus. The former Georgia state high school coach of the year recruited the region as a position coach at the University of Alabama-Birmingham and played his college ball at Georgia Tech.
Georgia Avenue in Washington, D.C. may never be the same again, with new Bison athletic director Louis "Skip" Perkins and Gary "the Flea" Harrell on board. Perkins is a local product from Fort Washington, Maryland (Prince George's County) and is very familiar with the local football landscape at the high school level. He comes to Howard from the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff, where he had much success as the athletic director over the Golden Lions program.
Harrell is a Miami native that would love to get some of that Florida speed on the Bison team. With Ted White on board as the Bison offensive coordinator, there is no doubt that the 2011 Bison will be the most improved team in the MEAC.
Harrell is a Miami native that would love to get some of that Florida speed on the Bison team. With Ted White on board as the Bison offensive coordinator, there is no doubt that the 2011 Bison will be the most improved team in the MEAC.
You would think that Morgan State would recruit those strong musicians that plays in the Coppin State pep band, to give it more brass horsepower. But that's another story for another day. As you can see below, most of the MEAC bands are improving--NCCU, SCSU, NSU and B-CU are becoming world-class music organizations, like their teacher -- the Florida A&M University Marching 100.
Who said competition wasn't good for the MEAC? Iron does sharpen iron!
by beepbeep 2/13/11
Credits:
1. North Carolina A&T State University Blue and Gold Marching Machine & Golden Delight Dancers, Videographer: SpeechlessQue; 11/13/2010.
2. Savannah State University Coastal Empire Sound Explosion Marching Band & The Klassy Kitties Dancers, Videographer: TheOProductions1907
3. Howard University ShowTime Marching Band & Oh La La Dancers, Videographer: HUReaction
4. Bethune-Cookman University Marching Wildcats & 14 Karat Gold Dancers, Videographer: MarchingsportHD
5. Delaware State University Marching Band 'The Approaching Storm and D'Elegance Dancers' Videographer:8to5pros
6. Norfolk State University Spartan Legion Marching Band and Hot Ice Dancers, Videographer: freezezone1
7. Morgan State University "Magnificent Marching Machine & Foxy Dancers" Videographer: pvimaging
8. South Carolina State University Marching 101 Band & Champagne Dancers, Pt.1&2, Videographer: Biranandrew
9. Hampton University Marching Force Band and Ebony Fire, Videographer:JayHowEdu
10. North Carolina Central University Marching Sound Machine Band & The Exquisite Ladies of the eClipse; Part 1&2, Videographer: Music213
11. Coppin State University Eagle Band, Pt. 1&2, Videographer: Anakoni2012
12. Florida A&M University Marching 100, Videographer: ThePoopFly
13. Florida A&M University Marching 100, Videographer: sonyadenise1974
Monday, February 7, 2011
Super Bowl: Prairie View A&M Marching Storm has its moments on World Stage before 100 million viewers
Super entertainers had their moments -- both good and bad
Excerpt:
Finally, somebody found a more entertaining use for Cowboys Stadium's gigantic video board than punting footballs into it.
The Black Eyed Peas, who were lowered onto the Super Bowl stage from the massive HD scoreboard, delivered a 15-minute halftime performance layered with spectacle and studded with guest stars. The Peas are frequently derided for being pop music aimed at the lowest common denominator -- and make no mistake: the songs comprising the set list were not artistic gems -- but the quartet did exactly what a Super Bowl halftime show should -- it entertained.
The setlist spanned most of BEP's more recent career; current hits like "The Time (Dirty Bit)" were blended with older hits like "Pump It" (which featured the Prairie View A&M University marching band).
Videographer: BBellidos
Black Eyed Peas delivered, but Slash's performance wasted
Excerpt:
ARLINGTON, TX — One should never expect art during a Super Bowl halftime show. A barely 15-minute mini-concert in the middle of a football field surrounded by the cacophonous spectacle of a gargantuan, glass-and-metal stadium is not the ideal setting for musical revelations.
So anybody complaining about the Black Eyed Peas’ 13-minute gig Sunday night sandwiched between the two halves of the biggest sporting event in the country needs to realize that will.i.am, Fergie , Apl.de.ap and Taboo dished out exactly what made them famous in the first place.
That field was mighty busy during the show, what with the 60 members of the Prairie View A&M University Marching Storm marching band doing its thing and a slew of dancers on the platform with the Peas as well as on the surrounding Astro turf.
Former PV Marching Storm Drum Major Smith Makes Career Mark at Super Bowl
Super Bowl XLV will be much more than a high-profile football game in Texas for PVAMU alumnus and Fort Worth native Jimmy R.O. Smith. The 2003 graduate will have a hand in choreographing the event’s half-time show.
Smith will assist in orchestrating the show, which will be headlined by the Black Eyed Peas. Smith’s close proximity to the production has also opened the door for 60 members of the PVAMU Marching Band to participate in the show.
I was asked by a friend and a driving force in the industry, Fatima Robinson, to assist her with this elaborate piece of work that I feel could possibly be my largest one to date,” Smith said. “She hired me earlier in my career as a member of Eddie Murphy's band in feature film ‘Dreamgirls’ and now she’s bringing me on to assist her in one of her largest projects.”
Smith credits his years at PVAMU in helping him to shape his character. After serving as drum major in the PVAMU’s award-winning Marching Storm, he ventured to Los Angeles to pursue his dream of a career in entertainment. Fast forward and Smith has choreographed, danced and produced alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. He has appeared in major motion pictures such as “Stomp the Yard” and “Burlesque” and has toured with top notch artists like Keri Hilson, Jennifer Lopez and Fergie.
READ MORE, CLICK EACH TITLE.
Excerpt:
Finally, somebody found a more entertaining use for Cowboys Stadium's gigantic video board than punting footballs into it.
The Black Eyed Peas, who were lowered onto the Super Bowl stage from the massive HD scoreboard, delivered a 15-minute halftime performance layered with spectacle and studded with guest stars. The Peas are frequently derided for being pop music aimed at the lowest common denominator -- and make no mistake: the songs comprising the set list were not artistic gems -- but the quartet did exactly what a Super Bowl halftime show should -- it entertained.
The setlist spanned most of BEP's more recent career; current hits like "The Time (Dirty Bit)" were blended with older hits like "Pump It" (which featured the Prairie View A&M University marching band).
Videographer: BBellidos
Black Eyed Peas delivered, but Slash's performance wasted
Excerpt:
ARLINGTON, TX — One should never expect art during a Super Bowl halftime show. A barely 15-minute mini-concert in the middle of a football field surrounded by the cacophonous spectacle of a gargantuan, glass-and-metal stadium is not the ideal setting for musical revelations.
So anybody complaining about the Black Eyed Peas’ 13-minute gig Sunday night sandwiched between the two halves of the biggest sporting event in the country needs to realize that will.i.am, Fergie , Apl.de.ap and Taboo dished out exactly what made them famous in the first place.
That field was mighty busy during the show, what with the 60 members of the Prairie View A&M University Marching Storm marching band doing its thing and a slew of dancers on the platform with the Peas as well as on the surrounding Astro turf.
Former PV Marching Storm Drum Major Smith Makes Career Mark at Super Bowl
 |
| Jimmy R.O. Smith |
Smith will assist in orchestrating the show, which will be headlined by the Black Eyed Peas. Smith’s close proximity to the production has also opened the door for 60 members of the PVAMU Marching Band to participate in the show.
I was asked by a friend and a driving force in the industry, Fatima Robinson, to assist her with this elaborate piece of work that I feel could possibly be my largest one to date,” Smith said. “She hired me earlier in my career as a member of Eddie Murphy's band in feature film ‘Dreamgirls’ and now she’s bringing me on to assist her in one of her largest projects.”
Smith credits his years at PVAMU in helping him to shape his character. After serving as drum major in the PVAMU’s award-winning Marching Storm, he ventured to Los Angeles to pursue his dream of a career in entertainment. Fast forward and Smith has choreographed, danced and produced alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. He has appeared in major motion pictures such as “Stomp the Yard” and “Burlesque” and has toured with top notch artists like Keri Hilson, Jennifer Lopez and Fergie.
READ MORE, CLICK EACH TITLE.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Honda Battle of the Bands 2011 Set to Rock Atlanta
BATTLE OF THE BANDS: Marching 101 to compete Jan. 29 in Atlanta
South Carolina State University's Marching 101 has joined the ranks of the top eight Historically Black College and University marching bands selected to perform at the 2011 Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase.
Other bands participating in the showcase, set for Jan. 29 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, are Virginia State University's Marching Trojan Explosion, Albany State University's Marching Rams Show Band, Jackson State University's Sonic Boom of the South, Bethune Cookman University's Marching Wildcats, Clark Atlanta University's Mighty Marching Panthers, Winston-Salem State University's Red Sea of Sound and Tennessee State University's Aristocrat of Bands.
Honda Battle of the Bands 2011 Set to Rock Atlanta
More than 60,000 fans will flock through the gates of Atlanta’s Georgia Dome on January 29th, 2011 to witness the 9th annual Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase, an unparalleled performance and celebration of the nation’s elite marching bands. Renowned Hip-Hop performer and actor “Bow Wow” will join more than 1,800 student musicians and one of Atlanta’s best amateur vocalists to celebrate the music and creativity found at America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
FAMU's Marching 100 won't defend Honda Battle of the Bands title in Atlanta
Has the Marching 100 lost its mojo? The Marching 100, Florida A&M University's famed marching band, will not be defending its title later this month in the annual Honda Battle of the Bands at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta. The Marching 100, winners of the event last year, didn't receive enough votes to qualify as 2011 finalists.
The voting process is broken down among fans, band directors and university presidents, said Erika Braxton-White, a spokeswoman for Honda. Each band director and university president gets one vote for any band except their own.
"We didn't campaign to participate," said Julian White, Marching 100 band director. He noted that the band wanted to focus this semester primarily on concert band performances.
READ MORE, CLICK EACH TITLE.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Honda Battle of the Bands 2011 Set to Rock Atlanta
More than 60,000 fans will flock through the gates of Atlanta’s Georgia Dome on January 29th, 2011 to witness the 9th annual Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase, an unparalleled performance and celebration of the nation’s elite marching bands. Renowned Hip-Hop performer and actor “Bow Wow” will join more than 1,800 student musicians and one of Atlanta’s best amateur vocalists to celebrate the music and creativity found at America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
The Invitational Showcase Line-Up
For the highly anticipated 2011 showdown, the curtain will go up promptly at 3:00 p.m. EST. The bill includes a special guest performance by “Bow Wow,” along with crowd-pleasing routines by the nation’s top eight elite black college marching bands. Georgia’s own Albany State University will open the show and lead this year’s “great eight” performances in the following order:
1. Albany State University “Marching Rams Show Band”
2. Tennessee State University “Aristocrat of Bands”
3. Virginia State University “Trojan Explosion Marching Band”
4. Clark Atlanta University “Mighty Marching Panthers”
5. Jackson State University “The Sonic Boom of the South”
6. Winston-Salem State University “Red Sea of Sound”
7. South Carolina State University “Marching 101”
8. Bethune Cookman University “Marching Wildcats”
Grants, Internships, and More
The Honda Battle of the Bands program not only provides a platform to shine a rare spotlight on the pageantry, pride and showmanship of HBCU music and culture, but it also is the only national music scholarship program of its kind. For the 2011 program, 45 HBCU marching bands participated in the pre-qualifying “Celebration Tour,” and received $1,000 grants for their music programs. An additional $20,000 will be awarded to the eight institutions selected to participate in this month’s Invitational Showcase.
In addition to the distribution of grant monies, the program also includes internship opportunities through the Fox Music Experience, and an HBCU Recruitment Fair will expose future college students to all HBCUs have to offer. The Fox Music Experience, now in its fourth year, provides one HBOB Invitational Showcase student-musician the opportunity to spend a few weeks during the summer months as an intern at Twentieth Century Fox studios in Los Angeles, learning film and television music production first-hand. The Honda Battle of the Bands HBCU Recruitment Fair, now in its sixth year, gives young people the opportunity to meet with marching band and admissions recruiters to discuss admissions requirements and scholarship opportunities.
Group and individual tickets for the show are still available, but moving quickly. They can be purchased at the Georgia Dome Box Office, via www.Ticketmaster.com or www.HondaBattleoftheBands.com for just $10 and $12.
For more information on the Invitational Showcase, Fox Music Experience summer internship program and HBCU Recruitment Fair, photos, press materials and video footage visit www.HondaBattleoftheBands.com, the official online destination and clearinghouse for all HBOB information.
Hip-Hop Icon “Bow Wow” to Perform
Hip-Hop artist and actor “Bow Wow” will be on hand as the special guest performer this year. The Columbus, Ohio native is best known for his musical lineage, taking his stage name from his mentor, fellow rapper-actor “Snoop Dog,” Bow Wow’s film credits include The Fast & the Furious: Tokyo Drift and Lottery Ticket. He is also noted for his cameo appearances in the critically-acclaimed television series, “Smallville,” “Ugly Betty,” “Entourage” and others.
Amateur Vocalists Welcomed To Audition for National Anthem
The Honda Battle of the Bands national anthem will be performed by a talented local vocalist selected once through a promotional radio “sing-off.” WVEE-FM, or “V-103,” Atlanta’s top-ranked urban radio station, is partnering with the Honda Battle of the Bands once again to invite listeners 16 years of age or older to demonstrate their vocal skills for a once–in-a-lifetime opportunity to open the 2011 Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase. This year, three finalists will be selected by a panel of judges at the open audition on Saturday, January 8th, 2011 at the Mall at Stonecrest in Lithonia, Georgia. Music fans can then log on to the station's web site and vote for their favorite rendition of the national anthem. The winner will be announced on-air on January 21st, 2011, and he or she will command the spotlight to open the showcase on January 29th.
The Invitational Showcase Line-Up
For the highly anticipated 2011 showdown, the curtain will go up promptly at 3:00 p.m. EST. The bill includes a special guest performance by “Bow Wow,” along with crowd-pleasing routines by the nation’s top eight elite black college marching bands. Georgia’s own Albany State University will open the show and lead this year’s “great eight” performances in the following order:
1. Albany State University “Marching Rams Show Band”
2. Tennessee State University “Aristocrat of Bands”
3. Virginia State University “Trojan Explosion Marching Band”
4. Clark Atlanta University “Mighty Marching Panthers”
5. Jackson State University “The Sonic Boom of the South”
6. Winston-Salem State University “Red Sea of Sound”
7. South Carolina State University “Marching 101”
8. Bethune Cookman University “Marching Wildcats”
Grants, Internships, and More
The Honda Battle of the Bands program not only provides a platform to shine a rare spotlight on the pageantry, pride and showmanship of HBCU music and culture, but it also is the only national music scholarship program of its kind. For the 2011 program, 45 HBCU marching bands participated in the pre-qualifying “Celebration Tour,” and received $1,000 grants for their music programs. An additional $20,000 will be awarded to the eight institutions selected to participate in this month’s Invitational Showcase.
In addition to the distribution of grant monies, the program also includes internship opportunities through the Fox Music Experience, and an HBCU Recruitment Fair will expose future college students to all HBCUs have to offer. The Fox Music Experience, now in its fourth year, provides one HBOB Invitational Showcase student-musician the opportunity to spend a few weeks during the summer months as an intern at Twentieth Century Fox studios in Los Angeles, learning film and television music production first-hand. The Honda Battle of the Bands HBCU Recruitment Fair, now in its sixth year, gives young people the opportunity to meet with marching band and admissions recruiters to discuss admissions requirements and scholarship opportunities.
Group and individual tickets for the show are still available, but moving quickly. They can be purchased at the Georgia Dome Box Office, via www.Ticketmaster.com or www.HondaBattleoftheBands.com for just $10 and $12.
For more information on the Invitational Showcase, Fox Music Experience summer internship program and HBCU Recruitment Fair, photos, press materials and video footage visit www.HondaBattleoftheBands.com, the official online destination and clearinghouse for all HBOB information.
Hip-Hop Icon “Bow Wow” to Perform
Hip-Hop artist and actor “Bow Wow” will be on hand as the special guest performer this year. The Columbus, Ohio native is best known for his musical lineage, taking his stage name from his mentor, fellow rapper-actor “Snoop Dog,” Bow Wow’s film credits include The Fast & the Furious: Tokyo Drift and Lottery Ticket. He is also noted for his cameo appearances in the critically-acclaimed television series, “Smallville,” “Ugly Betty,” “Entourage” and others.
Amateur Vocalists Welcomed To Audition for National Anthem
The Honda Battle of the Bands national anthem will be performed by a talented local vocalist selected once through a promotional radio “sing-off.” WVEE-FM, or “V-103,” Atlanta’s top-ranked urban radio station, is partnering with the Honda Battle of the Bands once again to invite listeners 16 years of age or older to demonstrate their vocal skills for a once–in-a-lifetime opportunity to open the 2011 Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase. This year, three finalists will be selected by a panel of judges at the open audition on Saturday, January 8th, 2011 at the Mall at Stonecrest in Lithonia, Georgia. Music fans can then log on to the station's web site and vote for their favorite rendition of the national anthem. The winner will be announced on-air on January 21st, 2011, and he or she will command the spotlight to open the showcase on January 29th.
Monday, January 3, 2011
NCCU band's big moment had some hurdles
PASADENA, Cal. -- N.C. Central University's Marching Sound Machine had to overcome funding problems, sieges of bad weather and even fear of flying to complete its long-standing goal: marching in Saturday's 122nd Rose Parade.
Thousands of roadside spectators cheered on the Marching Sound Machine as they played Michael Jackson's "Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)" while executing some of Jackson's most famous dance moves - the moonwalk and anti-gravity lean.
"I never imagined how many people would be there," said Letitia Harris, a junior trombone player. "I can't even think right now; I'm just trying to catch my breath."
Videographer: Music 213
Sound Machine 'brings it'
PASADENA, Calif. -- The N.C. Central University Marching Sound Machine's debut at the Rose Parade on Saturday was a success. The tricky 110-degree turn onto Colorado Boulevard? Flawless. The moon-walking dance moves? Smooth as silk. The response of the crowd? Almost louder than the band's drum line.
"It went very, very well," said Brian Henry, tuba player and senior in mass communication at NCCU. "The turn was very easy. Everybody did an excellent job. It was awesome!"
NCCU plays Disney
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- For members of the N.C. Central University Marching Sound Machine band, Tuesday was their longest day -- it began with packing up in Durham at 2 a.m. and ended 22 hours later in California with the receipt of their new uniforms.
The new costumes arrived at the hotel just in time for their first performance at Disneyland on Wednesday. The design is the same as that developed in 2003, but the band members appreciated having bright new uniforms for their Tournament of Roses Parade performance on New Year's Day in Pasadena.
Videographer: Music 213 - NCCU Marching Sound Machine performance @ Pasadena Bandfest, Part 1.
NCCU Marching Sound Machine Band honors FAMU's late Dr. William P. Foster
The North Carolina Central University Marching Sound Machine Band honored the late Dr. William P. Foster at the December 30, 2010, Bandfest in Pasadena, California. The band played a tribute to Dr. Foster, performing Michael Jackson's Bird Song. Dr. Foster was the "dean and innovator of American university marching bands."
The NCCU band has been greatly influenced by the legendary musical and marching innovations of Dr. Foster through their director, Mr. Jorim E. Reid. Mr Reid is a positive example of the many fine musicians that have fully developed, enhanced and perfected their craft and musicianship under the late Dr.William P. Foster's leadership at Florida A&M University.
Mr. Reid, a former FAMU Marching 100 drum major, oboe player, piano major, student music arranger for the famous Marching 100 Band, and conductor extraordinaire, is creating his own legacy and influence on student- musicians throughout North Carolina and the World.
Take a listen to the superb musicianship, showmanship, symphonic arrangements and marching precision of the North Carolina Central University Marching Sound Machine Band on part 2 of the Pasadena, California Bandfest performance. Eagle Pride - Amplified!
Videographer: Music 213 - NCCU Marching Sound Machine Band, Part 2.
READ MORE, CLICK EACH TITLE.
Thousands of roadside spectators cheered on the Marching Sound Machine as they played Michael Jackson's "Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)" while executing some of Jackson's most famous dance moves - the moonwalk and anti-gravity lean.
"I never imagined how many people would be there," said Letitia Harris, a junior trombone player. "I can't even think right now; I'm just trying to catch my breath."
Videographer: Music 213
Sound Machine 'brings it'
PASADENA, Calif. -- The N.C. Central University Marching Sound Machine's debut at the Rose Parade on Saturday was a success. The tricky 110-degree turn onto Colorado Boulevard? Flawless. The moon-walking dance moves? Smooth as silk. The response of the crowd? Almost louder than the band's drum line.
"It went very, very well," said Brian Henry, tuba player and senior in mass communication at NCCU. "The turn was very easy. Everybody did an excellent job. It was awesome!"
NCCU plays Disney
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- For members of the N.C. Central University Marching Sound Machine band, Tuesday was their longest day -- it began with packing up in Durham at 2 a.m. and ended 22 hours later in California with the receipt of their new uniforms.
The new costumes arrived at the hotel just in time for their first performance at Disneyland on Wednesday. The design is the same as that developed in 2003, but the band members appreciated having bright new uniforms for their Tournament of Roses Parade performance on New Year's Day in Pasadena.
Videographer: Music 213 - NCCU Marching Sound Machine performance @ Pasadena Bandfest, Part 1.
NCCU Marching Sound Machine Band honors FAMU's late Dr. William P. Foster
The North Carolina Central University Marching Sound Machine Band honored the late Dr. William P. Foster at the December 30, 2010, Bandfest in Pasadena, California. The band played a tribute to Dr. Foster, performing Michael Jackson's Bird Song. Dr. Foster was the "dean and innovator of American university marching bands."
The NCCU band has been greatly influenced by the legendary musical and marching innovations of Dr. Foster through their director, Mr. Jorim E. Reid. Mr Reid is a positive example of the many fine musicians that have fully developed, enhanced and perfected their craft and musicianship under the late Dr.William P. Foster's leadership at Florida A&M University.
Mr. Reid, a former FAMU Marching 100 drum major, oboe player, piano major, student music arranger for the famous Marching 100 Band, and conductor extraordinaire, is creating his own legacy and influence on student- musicians throughout North Carolina and the World.
Take a listen to the superb musicianship, showmanship, symphonic arrangements and marching precision of the North Carolina Central University Marching Sound Machine Band on part 2 of the Pasadena, California Bandfest performance. Eagle Pride - Amplified!
Videographer: Music 213 - NCCU Marching Sound Machine Band, Part 2.
READ MORE, CLICK EACH TITLE.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
The NFL needs to stop turning its Super Bowl half-time into a showcase for aging rock stars
Nothing against The Who, mind you. Or its surviving original members -- 65-year-old singer Roger Daltrey and 64-year-old guitarist Pete Townshend. Pretty much everyone on The Plain Dealer's editorial board loved The Who -- back in the day. But the day was a long time ago, as we were reminded again during Sunday's Super Bowl halftime. How long? The Browns were NFL defending champions when "My Generation" was released.
Alas, most vintage performers aren't well served by tight camera shots, let alone HDTV. And when Daltrey sang, "Let's get together, before we get much older," there was no arguing with the teenager on the couch who hooted, "It's too late for that."
The NFL's been obsessed with "safe" halftime acts since Janet Jackson's 2004"wardrobe malfunction." Since then, the Super Bowl's gone classic rock: Paul McCartney, Tom Petty, Prince, Bruce Springsteen, the Rolling Stones and finally The Who -- with guest drummer Zak Starkey, Ringo Starr's 44-year-old son. Enough already. Baby boomers don't need bifocaled rockers to remind them of their age. Next year, how about a nice marching band?
Alas, most vintage performers aren't well served by tight camera shots, let alone HDTV. And when Daltrey sang, "Let's get together, before we get much older," there was no arguing with the teenager on the couch who hooted, "It's too late for that."
The NFL's been obsessed with "safe" halftime acts since Janet Jackson's 2004"wardrobe malfunction." Since then, the Super Bowl's gone classic rock: Paul McCartney, Tom Petty, Prince, Bruce Springsteen, the Rolling Stones and finally The Who -- with guest drummer Zak Starkey, Ringo Starr's 44-year-old son. Enough already. Baby boomers don't need bifocaled rockers to remind them of their age. Next year, how about a nice marching band?
READ MORE, CLICK TITLE.
MEAC/SWAC Sports Main Street is in total agreement with the comments posted (above) by The Plain Dealer Editorial Board (Cleveland, OH). Enough already! Here you have a global television audience with 106 million watching and you schedule America's Band--the "Incomparable" Florida A&M University Marching 100 for only a "pre-game" performance.
Unfortunately, only 74,059 fans at Super Bowl XLIV in Sun Life Stadium had the experience of seeing the awesome display of musicianship and precision of the FAMU Marching 100 Band. The Marching 100 has been credited for 30 innovative techniques which have become standard operating procedures for many high school and collegiate marching band programs throughout the nation.This was the FAMU Marching 100 fifth appearance in a Super Bowl, performing a medley of Michael Jackson tunes before the Saints and Colts took the field.
Too bad big business comes first--$2.5 million dollar 30 second commercials and last second football hype by sportscasters who are clueless, to the point that the 10 minute pre-game show was a total blackout. Again, America missed out on the seeing the best marching band in the land--in another electrifying and fabulous performance. Enough already with the over-the-hill rockers who can't give away free CDs.
One suggestion to the NFL....book for the next five Super Bowls the Florida A&M Marching 100, Southern University Human Jukebox, Jackson State Sonic Boom of the South, Prairie View A&M Marching Storm and the Alabama State University Marching Hornets. All of these bands are better than "nice" and will put on a memorable half-time show that will connect with the 106 million audience. FAMU Marching 100--you again made us proud!!
PHOTO GALLERY: FAMU Marching 100 at the Super Bowl
http://www.miamiherald.com/929/gallery/1468143.html
READ RELATED ARTICLES:
FAMU's band revs Super Bowl crowd with Jackson tribute
Jackson's superpower takes show to new level
FAMU's Marching 100 excited about pregame Super Bowl performance
Super Bowl ticker
The Who brings Super Bowl crowd to its feet
FAMU's Marching 100 to have fifth Super Bowl performance
Sunday, January 31, 2010
2010 Honda Battle of the Bands
ATLANTA, GA - Set against a colorful backdrop of dynamic performances by eight of the nation’s top Historically Black College and University [HBCU] marching bands, a reverent marching band tribute to the late music icon Michael Jackson, and all the hype of a live performance from hip-hop artist, Ludacris, the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB) Invitational Showcase had a crowd of more than 55,000 “shaking their bodies down to the ground.”
In the end, the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands concluded with the message of unity for humanity, evident in much of the “King of Pop’s” music and in several marching band dedications to the Haitian relief effort. The 1,800 student musicians and 55,000plus fans were inspired to reflect on the role they play in making the world a better place. HBCU friends, fans, students and alumni traveled from all over the United States to enjoy the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands, the lineup of which included:
Albany State University “Marching Rams” (Albany, Georgia)
Clark Atlanta University “Mighty Marching Panthers” (Atlanta, Georgia)
Florida A&M University “Marching 100” (Tallahassee, Florida)
North Carolina Central University “Marching Sound Machine” (Durham, North Carolina)
Prairie View A&M University “Marching Storm” (Prairie View, Texas)
Southern University “Human Jukebox Marching Band” (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
Tuskegee University “Marching Crimson Pipers” (Tuskegee, Alabama)
Virginia State University “Trojan Explosion Marching Band” (Petersburg, Virginia)
The multi-faceted show was a virtual musical menagerie, blending the latest chart-topping R&B and Hip-Hop, pop, rock, funk and more. And, as a special treat, Atlanta-native and award-winning Hip-Hop artist and actor Ludacris was a featured special guest, performing his latest single “How Low”, from his highly-anticipated new album, Battle of the Sexes, before his hometown crowd.
We now take you to the Georgia Dome, Atlanta for yestersday's big show. Enjoy!
In the end, the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands concluded with the message of unity for humanity, evident in much of the “King of Pop’s” music and in several marching band dedications to the Haitian relief effort. The 1,800 student musicians and 55,000plus fans were inspired to reflect on the role they play in making the world a better place. HBCU friends, fans, students and alumni traveled from all over the United States to enjoy the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands, the lineup of which included:
Albany State University “Marching Rams” (Albany, Georgia)
Clark Atlanta University “Mighty Marching Panthers” (Atlanta, Georgia)
Florida A&M University “Marching 100” (Tallahassee, Florida)
North Carolina Central University “Marching Sound Machine” (Durham, North Carolina)
Prairie View A&M University “Marching Storm” (Prairie View, Texas)
Southern University “Human Jukebox Marching Band” (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
Tuskegee University “Marching Crimson Pipers” (Tuskegee, Alabama)
Virginia State University “Trojan Explosion Marching Band” (Petersburg, Virginia)
The multi-faceted show was a virtual musical menagerie, blending the latest chart-topping R&B and Hip-Hop, pop, rock, funk and more. And, as a special treat, Atlanta-native and award-winning Hip-Hop artist and actor Ludacris was a featured special guest, performing his latest single “How Low”, from his highly-anticipated new album, Battle of the Sexes, before his hometown crowd.
We now take you to the Georgia Dome, Atlanta for yestersday's big show. Enjoy!
Friday, January 15, 2010
FAMU marching band picked to perform at Super Bowl pregame show
Florida A&M University's marching band has been selected to perform in the Super Bowl XLIV pregame show at Dolphin Stadium on Feb. 6 -- and they're rehearsing a tribute to Michael Jackson. This marks the third time in five years that the marching "100" has been invited to participate in a Super Bowl. "We are extremely honored and proud to be selected by the National Football League to perform during the pregame show," said Julian White, director of bands and chair of FAMU's Department of Music, who received a telephone call from the entertainment director for the National Football League.
"To be invited for a third time in only five years is confirmation that we give a quality performance," Dr. White said in a news release issued by the Tallahassee school on Tuesday. "It is only fitting that we salute the King of Pop for the world to see," White said. (Read More, Click Blog Title)
"To be invited for a third time in only five years is confirmation that we give a quality performance," Dr. White said in a news release issued by the Tallahassee school on Tuesday. "It is only fitting that we salute the King of Pop for the world to see," White said. (Read More, Click Blog Title)
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
HONDA Battle of the Bands announces Winners
Three months ago, 45 marching bands from the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) began the journey down the “Road to the Honda,” all competing for a spot in the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB) Invitational Showcase. Out of 45 competing marching bands from the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), eight have been chosen to perform in January at the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB) Invitational Showcase.Representing varied music and performance styles ranging from precision to high-stepping, the eight headlining bands are:
• Albany State University “Marching Rams” (Albany, Georgia)
• Clark Atlanta University “Mighty Marching Panthers” (Atlanta, Georgia)
• Florida A&M University “Marching 100” (Tallahassee, Florida)
• North Carolina Central University “Marching Sound Machine” (Durham, North Carolina)
• Prairie View A&M University “Marching Storm” (Prairie View, Texas)
• Southern University “Human Jukebox Marching Band” (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
• Tuskegee University “Marching Crimson Pipers” (Tuskegee, Alabama)
• Virginia State University “Trojan Explosion Marching Band” (Petersburg, Virginia)
On January 30, 2010, the bands will perform for a crowd of 60,000 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta and prove why they are the best of the best. Marking its eighth year, the Honda Battle of the Bands is the only national scholarship program that showcases an important facet of HBCU heritage and culture – music education.
The eight winning band programs chosen to participate in this year’s Invitational Showcase will be awarded $20,000 by American Honda for their music programs in addition to the $1,000 grant they received for participation in the pre-qualifying fall campus event tour. Through this program Honda is awarding a total of $205,000 in scholarships to HBCU music programs for the 2009-10 academic year, and since the beginning of the program, has awarded grants in excess of $1 million.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Arkansas-Pine Bluff 20, Jackson State 13 (O.T.)
LATE RALLY LIFTS GOLDEN LIONS PAST JACKSON STATE TIGERS
JACKSON, MISS. — Monte Coleman knew the decision he had just made was risky. But that didn’t mean it was necessarily difficult. His Arkansas-Pine Bluff team had just taken a three point lead on a Carlos Reyes field goal from 38 yards out in an overtime series that was made possible by a spark lit by the insertion of backup quarterback Josh Boudreaux. But a personal foul penalty on Jackson State’s Malcolm Palmer gave Coleman the option of extending the lead and making it a little bit harder on the Tigers. His team had the potentially winning points on the scoreboard, and Coleman took them off.
“We had momentum,” he said. “That’s what I was counting on.” Coleman’s faith was paid back by Boudreaux, who hadn’t seen game-action since a season-opening loss to Arkansas-Monticello on Sept. 5. Two plays after the penalty, Boudreaux scrambled to his left, saw Raymond Webber in the back of the end zone and lofted a pass that landed safely in the senior wide receiver’s arms. A James Harrell tip of a Tray Rutland pass on fourth-and-2 ended Jackson State’s hopes of forcing another overtime period, and it set off a celebration alongside UAPB’s sideline as the Golden Lions finished the improbable 20-13 overtime win at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium on Saturday.
THORNTON GETS PICKS LEAD
JACKSON, MISS.— One of the biggest disappointments that came from last week’s canceled game against Alcorn State was the nullification of the stellar defensive statistics Arkansas-Pine Bluff put up through two quarters on Oct. 1. That game was canceled after halftime because of a rain and lightning storm and, among those numbers lost to Mother Nature, was Kevin Thornton’s fifth interception of the season. That development upset UAPB coach Monte Coleman and Thornton, a senior free safety who has made it his mission this year to break the school’s career interception record — even if nobody can seem to figure out what that record is. In the Golden Lions first game since that night it didn’t take long for Thornton to get the interception back.
Kareem Copeland's Talking Points
Jackson State had several opportunities to put Arkansas-Pine Bluff away, or at least extend the lead, but couldn't. JSU forced UAPB into a three-and-out after scoring the first touchdown of the game, but quarterback Tray Rutland threw an interception on the very next play. Not only was the pass picked off, but Carlos Everett had two steps on the defender when the ball was underthrown. The Golden Lions had four drives that stalled after a maximum of four plays, but Rutland threw interceptions on three of the ensuing drives.
Taking a U-turn
It's almost impossible to imagine two more different scenes within the same locale. Seven days ago, Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium was the site of the world's largest Jackson State party after a win over Southern. On Saturday, silence reigned supreme despite the blaring of the Arkansas-Pine Bluff band. Seven days ago, JSU players ran around the field waving the pep squad's flags. On Saturday, Terrance Onyiuke and Marcell Young sat dejected on the metal bench, staring at the grass in front of them. It was the look of a team that was two minutes from victory but watched its opponent score 14 straight points for a 20-13 overtime victory in front of an announced crowd of 11,082.
For JSU football coach, death of wife a loss like no other
They had driven 10 1/2 hours, from Jackson to Cincinnati. Only 53 miles remained to their destination of Xenia, Ohio, when the oldies radio station played a song Jackson State University head football coach Rick Comegy had heard a thousand times - the 1971 Bill Withers hit, Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone. This time he listened to the lyrics. Every word felt like a knife to the heart. ... Ain't no sunshine when she's gone/only darkness every day/ain't no sunshine when she's gone/and this house just ain't no home anytime she goes away ... A family friend was driving Comegy and his 15-year-old son Rick Jr. to a hometown memorial service for Comegy's wife of 25 years, Connie, who died June 22 of cancer. She was 54. In the passenger seat, Comegy wanted to let it all out. Cry. Scream. Kick. Punch the dash. "But I couldn't let Rick Jr. see me like that," he says.
Tigers' defense falters at crunch time
Jackson State will find itself in the midst of a defensive battle quite often this season. That's what happens when a club excels on defense and employs a low-scoring, ball-control offense. So, there was no surprise when neither offense could get going when JSU hosted Arkansas-Pine Bluff. However, the Dark Side defense rarely gets outplayed, but it did Saturday in a 20-13 overtime loss. "I walked the sideline and I was looking in the eyes of guys that weren't even playing and the guys that were playing, I knew we were going to win that football game," UAPB coach Monte Coleman said. "It was something about tonight that was going to be no give up by anybody.
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JACKSON, MISS. — Monte Coleman knew the decision he had just made was risky. But that didn’t mean it was necessarily difficult. His Arkansas-Pine Bluff team had just taken a three point lead on a Carlos Reyes field goal from 38 yards out in an overtime series that was made possible by a spark lit by the insertion of backup quarterback Josh Boudreaux. But a personal foul penalty on Jackson State’s Malcolm Palmer gave Coleman the option of extending the lead and making it a little bit harder on the Tigers. His team had the potentially winning points on the scoreboard, and Coleman took them off.
“We had momentum,” he said. “That’s what I was counting on.” Coleman’s faith was paid back by Boudreaux, who hadn’t seen game-action since a season-opening loss to Arkansas-Monticello on Sept. 5. Two plays after the penalty, Boudreaux scrambled to his left, saw Raymond Webber in the back of the end zone and lofted a pass that landed safely in the senior wide receiver’s arms. A James Harrell tip of a Tray Rutland pass on fourth-and-2 ended Jackson State’s hopes of forcing another overtime period, and it set off a celebration alongside UAPB’s sideline as the Golden Lions finished the improbable 20-13 overtime win at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium on Saturday.
THORNTON GETS PICKS LEAD
JACKSON, MISS.— One of the biggest disappointments that came from last week’s canceled game against Alcorn State was the nullification of the stellar defensive statistics Arkansas-Pine Bluff put up through two quarters on Oct. 1. That game was canceled after halftime because of a rain and lightning storm and, among those numbers lost to Mother Nature, was Kevin Thornton’s fifth interception of the season. That development upset UAPB coach Monte Coleman and Thornton, a senior free safety who has made it his mission this year to break the school’s career interception record — even if nobody can seem to figure out what that record is. In the Golden Lions first game since that night it didn’t take long for Thornton to get the interception back.
Kareem Copeland's Talking Points
Jackson State had several opportunities to put Arkansas-Pine Bluff away, or at least extend the lead, but couldn't. JSU forced UAPB into a three-and-out after scoring the first touchdown of the game, but quarterback Tray Rutland threw an interception on the very next play. Not only was the pass picked off, but Carlos Everett had two steps on the defender when the ball was underthrown. The Golden Lions had four drives that stalled after a maximum of four plays, but Rutland threw interceptions on three of the ensuing drives.
Taking a U-turn
It's almost impossible to imagine two more different scenes within the same locale. Seven days ago, Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium was the site of the world's largest Jackson State party after a win over Southern. On Saturday, silence reigned supreme despite the blaring of the Arkansas-Pine Bluff band. Seven days ago, JSU players ran around the field waving the pep squad's flags. On Saturday, Terrance Onyiuke and Marcell Young sat dejected on the metal bench, staring at the grass in front of them. It was the look of a team that was two minutes from victory but watched its opponent score 14 straight points for a 20-13 overtime victory in front of an announced crowd of 11,082.
For JSU football coach, death of wife a loss like no other
They had driven 10 1/2 hours, from Jackson to Cincinnati. Only 53 miles remained to their destination of Xenia, Ohio, when the oldies radio station played a song Jackson State University head football coach Rick Comegy had heard a thousand times - the 1971 Bill Withers hit, Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone. This time he listened to the lyrics. Every word felt like a knife to the heart. ... Ain't no sunshine when she's gone/only darkness every day/ain't no sunshine when she's gone/and this house just ain't no home anytime she goes away ... A family friend was driving Comegy and his 15-year-old son Rick Jr. to a hometown memorial service for Comegy's wife of 25 years, Connie, who died June 22 of cancer. She was 54. In the passenger seat, Comegy wanted to let it all out. Cry. Scream. Kick. Punch the dash. "But I couldn't let Rick Jr. see me like that," he says.
Tigers' defense falters at crunch time
Jackson State will find itself in the midst of a defensive battle quite often this season. That's what happens when a club excels on defense and employs a low-scoring, ball-control offense. So, there was no surprise when neither offense could get going when JSU hosted Arkansas-Pine Bluff. However, the Dark Side defense rarely gets outplayed, but it did Saturday in a 20-13 overtime loss. "I walked the sideline and I was looking in the eyes of guys that weren't even playing and the guys that were playing, I knew we were going to win that football game," UAPB coach Monte Coleman said. "It was something about tonight that was going to be no give up by anybody.
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