One aspect of Black History Month at our historically Black college campus that cannot be overlooked is the legacy and positive impact Isaac Greggs has left on The Human Jukebox.
Dr. Isaac Greggs has left people with great memories, words of wisdom, and overseen performances that include six SuperBowls, four Allstate Sugar Bowls, and three presidential inaugurations. Dr. Greggs retired in 2005 and was inducted into the Louisiana Black History Hall of Fame in 2013. He was known for his excellence pertaining to the musical genre and for creating a beautifully composed sound consistently within the band.
Not only was he Southern University’s legendary band director, but he was also a mentor, leader, and father figure. This is how four of The Human Jukebox’s Alumni band members describe Dr. Greggs; a true hero in their lives and development as adults in society after college.
Trumpet player and Southern alumnus Tamill Acker, who marched with the Jukebox from ‘92 to ‘94, shared his experience with having the pleasure of being a juke under the leadership of Dr. Greggs. “The band was everything to me. Dr. Greggs was larger than life, very motivational, influential, and a disciplinarian. He taught me many life lessons that I apply today which lead him to be my father figure.” Acker reminisces. He continues on the memories, “I will always remember him say ‘Be at the right place at the right time ready to concentrate’ and ‘If you’re early, you’re on time but if you’re on time, you’re late’. I use his slogans throughout my everyday life.” The morals and principles that Dr.Greggs instilled in Acker’s life encouraged him to be the owner of multiple businesses in this present time.
The Dancing Dolls have also experienced the amazing personality and unforgettable features Dr.Greggs brought to the scene. Regina Chenault, a member of Dancing Dolls from ‘86 to ‘92, shared her time as a part of the band and her memories of Dr.Greggs. “My experience was the best time of my life. It was hard work with 16-hour days of dancing for band camp in August. We had the best time traveling, enjoying each other’s company, and priding ourselves in representing the University, and more importantly our legacy.” She describes. Chenault then vocalizes Dr.Gregg’s routine behavior, “Doc Gregg’s was brilliant, sharp, and witty. You couldn’t get nothing by him, including when we watched band tape on Monday afternoon. He knew exactly when a fraction of a step was off and who needed to fix it later. Doc took care of us, he made sure we got in school, classes were together, and he did not tolerate mediocrity under no circumstances.”
Although those who were instructed by Dr. Greggs had the same experience, some had a more personal feel. Saxophone player, Donye’ Allen, ‘92 to ‘94, and Baritone player Damien Williams, ‘97 to ‘98, had support from Dr. Greggs when it came to education and finances. Donye’ shared how Doc cared more about his grades and academic standing than his position in the band. “When he found out I made a B average and was getting close to my degree, he didn’t care that I was one of the best saxophone players; it was more than that. He always told me you have to look the part, you have to look like what you want to be in life. I never met another human being like him in my life.” “The band for me was a dream come true. It was exciting and an experience I had always wished for. As a young man coming out of high school, it was my ultimate goal to be a Juke. Although it was challenging while being at Southern with a single parent, Doc assisted me with financial support when I needed it,” Damien remarked.
Due to the positive impact of Dr. Greggs, many wish to continue to honor him and everything he stood for. His life lessons, discipline, motivation, and leadership continue to carry on today both on and off the campus of Southern University.
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Isaac Greggs: Honoring the former Director of the Human Jukebox
February 14, 2023
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