Several HBCU marching bands will be featured in festivities celebrating the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris.
The virtual event entitled “We Are One,” is one of three virtual events planned by the Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC).
Bands from Florida A&M, Grambling State, Jackson State, South Carolina State, Southern University, and Tennessee State are among the bands scheduled to perform for the event.
“Even in a pandemic, the World Famed will showcase its talent on a platform that will be seen across the globe,” said Grambling State University President Rick Gallot, Jr. who also played guitar and percussion in the ensemble. “We are proud that they will be representing the institution for the inauguration of the first HBCU graduate to serve as Vice President of the United States of America.”
We Are One aims to honor and celebrate all within the Black Community and African Diaspora, featuring powerful speakers, inspiring stories, and entertaining performances.
The event will be hosted by Terrence J and feature appearances by Leslie Jones, Frankie Beverly, Stacey Abrams, Whip Jim Clyburn, Rep. Cedric Richmond, Congressional Black Caucus Chairwoman Rep. Joyce Beatty, Senator Cory Booker, Senator-Elect Rev. Raphael Warnock, Kim Fields, Erika Alexander, and Jason George. It will also feature a special performance by Tobe Nwigwe, in addition to performances by DJ D-Nice, The O’Jays, Rapsody, Step Afrika, the String Queens, the Texas Southern University Debate Team, and more.
“We are incredibly honored that the Sonic Boom was asked to join in such a historic occasion. This is a significant opportunity and unforgettable moment for our students in the band program, said Thomas K. Hudson, president of Jackson State University. “We are truly proud of the work they do on and off the field, and this special performance is a reflection of their commitment to their craft.”
We Are One will stream live from 8:00-9:30 PM Eastern at bideninaugural.org/watch and on Urban One, HBCU Grad, NowThis, Revolt TV, The Source, The Shade Room, BET, The Grio TV, Daily Kos, Watch The Yard, Blavity, and on NBC Peacock TV — on The Choice, which is Peacock’s free, exclusive news channel. ASL and closed captioning will be provided.
