SU Band set to entertain fans, audience

Known for their brilliant sound, show-stopping halftime shows and precision drill steps, the “Often Imitated But Never Duplicated Marching Band From Jaguar Land” has delighted and captivated fans both young and old for years.
Recipient of numerous awards and acclaims, Southern University’s marching band, affectionately dubbed “The Human Jukebox”, is one of the most well-known marching bands in the United States.
But what sets Southern’s band apart from other marching bands?
“It is a combination of old school groove and modern day hip hop,” said Band Director Lawrence Jackson. “We also happen to be blessed with quality musicianship.”
But it takes more than quality musicianship to be a part of the “Human Jukebox”. Band members must also carry a minimum of 12 credit hours and maintain a 2.0 G.P.A.
The band practices each night from 6:30-8 p.m. on the practice field near Mumford Stadium, an event that usually draws a crowd of the band’s more enthusiastic supporters.
“We try to create an atmosphere for wholesome family entertainment,” says Jackson.
“Our goal is to first educate the audience by showing off precise, well-coordinated drills, and then to entertain with high stepping routings with hip hop dance steps.”
Jackson, who is currently serving his second year as band director, is very modest about the role he plays in the band.
“People always talk about the band director, but I’d like for people to recognize the people who help me; Associate Band Director Carnell Knighten, Assistant Band Director Nathan Haymer, and Percussion Instructor Lorenzo Hart.”
The band will be performing at all of the football team’s home and away games during the upcoming football season. The season’s first game is against Florida A&M on Saturday, September 1st at Legion Field in Birmingham, Ala.
The first home game is on September 15 at 6 p.m. and will be against Prairie View A&M.