The Band Plays on: SU Human Jukebox on the rise

The world renowned Southern University Marching Band, most commonly addressed as the Human Jukebox, have been making some major additions to their résumé. Most recently, the band has developed and released their own app, making them the first collegiate band with one.
Director of Bands Nathan Haymer says the idea for a smartphone app was first presented in 2012, while he was serving as Assistant Director to Lawrence Jackson. According to Haymer, although Jackson didn’t pursue the app, he encouraged Haymer to keep his ideas on hand for when he became director himself.
App development began in November of 2014, and was released a few weeks ago. With the app, users can donate to the Human Jukebox, receive instant and detailed updates on the band, check the band’s performance schedule, and submit photos and videos of their experience with the band.
Haymer says he is always looking for ways to develop the band and maintain their trendsetter status.
“The goal is to be cutting edge, the band that everybody imitates,” said Haymer. “I guarantee you another band will have an app by the fall.” Haymer finished.
Haymer and his staff have also been working on developing partnerships with corporations in order to spread the reputation of the Human Jukebox, and bring more attention and revenue to the university itself. Last semester during the Homecoming football game, the band received their first new set of drums in 18 years from their most recent sponsor, Yamaha. Their old drums are now used for practice, and the new ones strictly for game days. Another partnership that is still developing is with the chain of regional McDonald’s restaurants.
“It’s my goal for the Southern University Marching Band to be the celebrities’ band,” explained Haymer. “If you want a band for any commercials, movie shoots, productions, you’ll call us first.” Haymer finished.
The band has also teamed up with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to grant the wish of 17 year old Jaymerson George, a wheelchair bound cerebral palsy patient. George and his brother, James, both wish to be members of the Human Jukebox. Haymer and Make-A-Wish arranged for a personal performance for George and Haymer announced George’s new status as an honorary member of the Human Jukebox.
“It was a no brainer,” said Haymer. “I thought, that’s the least we can do,” Haymer finished.
In addition to reaching out to help others, Haymer and his staff have been receiving help from companies who Haymer says are working toward building their own partnerships with the Human Jukebox. The band hall has received new televisions, courtesy of BestBuy, and the band directors have received iPads from Verizon.
“That’s just the power of the Human Jukebox,” finished Haymer.