CrankFest 2.0:Jukes take Houston

On Sunday, November 13th, the Southern University Human Jukebox and Texas Southern’s ‘Ocean of Soul’ faced off head to head for a Crank Fest part two. The battle took place on Texas Southern’s home front, in the H&PE Arena.
Prior to the beginning of the battle, fans began showcasing who they were siding with via social media, including jokingly referring to Texas Southern as the “puddle of soul.” Seemed to be a hashtag that came alive; accumulating almost 1,000 posts.
Entering the arena, the excitement was almost palpable. Fans, students, ‘band heads’ and alumni packed the arena for a sold out event! Although this matchup was not a typical battle, fans from all across the nation were anxious to see who would reign as the winner.
Though the battle was not projected to begin until 3:00 p.m., many fans were anxiously waiting outside at noon.
The Southern University ‘Human Jukebox’ entered the arena first, led by the ‘Fabulous Dancing Dolls’. Then came Texas Southern’s ‘Ocean of Soul’, led by the ‘Motion of the Ocean’ dance team.
Southern did not allow the ‘Ocean of Soul’ to settle in before the Jukebox played their world-renowned rendition of ‘Okay,’ the drum cadence caused the fans to leap to their feet, it was in that moment, everyone knew this battle was going to be something serious! Without leaving room for a rebuttal, the Jukebox then played ‘We Don’t Speed’. Once again, the crowd begin raging! Following, the ‘Ocean of Soul’ played an unknown rap ballad.
The most electrifying portion of the battle featured a ‘Mannequin Challenge’ from the Human Jukebox. Mid-song, the band, the Dancing Dolls and directors, posed for seconds, then resumed playing. It was iconic, within hours the clip of this portion battle had circulated all over social media.
The Texas Southern’s ‘Motion of the Ocean’ (dancers) attempted to challenge the Dancing Dolls by using one of the dolls’ stand routines. In response, Captain Danielle Stamper insouciantly turned her head, and awaited the next tune from the Human Jukebox.
The bands continued to play songs for approximately an hour, and completed over fifteen rounds of back to back tunes. The Jukebox amused fans with songs such as: ‘Can We Talk’, ‘You’re all I need, to Get By’ and ‘Black Beatles’. Tunes from Texas Southern included; ‘Tyrone,’ ‘Pick Up the Phone’ and ‘No Problem’.
The band directors also jokingly stirred up tensions by taking subtle jabs at one another. Mr. Brian Jackson, Assistant Director of Bands, came to the battle equipped with a cutout of a crying Michael Jordan, which he used to jest the ‘Ocean of Soul’ with. Later on in the battle the band did a special presentation in honor of his birthday.
Southern University Alumnus, Justin Patterson said, “As usual the Jukebox did not disappoint, they slaughtered the puddle of soul.”
A winner was not formally selected; however, based on social media, and responses from the fans, most say Southern University won due to the intricate musical compositions, and immaculate execution.
Mr. Nathan Haymer, Director of Bands was silent when asked whether or not Crankfest will be an annual event with consistent opponents, but he did say “Always keep your eyes and ears open, you never know what the Jukebox may be up to next!”