Jackson State University Sonic Boom of the South (2025-2026)
- Thread starter bernard
- Start date
Venom Skywalker
S. Enigma
Has JSU always done the rock back and forth when marching without playing? It feels like it's more pronounced with the current bands. It looks really great though.
bernard
THEE Realist
Jackson State University’s Sonic Boom of the South proudly joins “MICHAEL CELEBRATES: Legacy, Artistry, Culture”
(Jackson, MS) Today, in celebration of Black History Month and in anticipation of the worldwide theatrical release of “MICHAEL,” Jackson State University’s Sonic Boom of the South steps into the national spotlight once again with a powerful performance of Michael Jackson’s classic hit “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough,” blending JSU’s rich heritage with the pop icon’s unmistakable groove.
“Michael Jackson’s global impact on music and culture is undeniable,” said Jackson State University Interim President Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. “Featuring the Sonic Boom of the South in this national campaign reflects the level of excellence, discipline and tradition that define Jackson State University and HBCUs nationwide. We are proud to see our students represent that legacy on a national stage.”
The Sonic Boom, celebrated as the summa cum laude of bands, is no stranger to the limelight. However, being a part of this initiative has a special meaning for senior Desi Jenkins, a music education major and lead drum major of the “Jackson 5”, fondly known as the J5.
Head Drummajor Desi Banks leads the iconic J-5 during the filming of “MICHAEL CELEBRATES: Legacy, Artistry, Culture.”
“Throughout my entire career as a student, I’ve performed Michael’s selections and dance routines, with the most recent being our Homecoming 2024 halftime show,” Jenkins said. “I choreographed and facilitated my entire ‘Thriller’ segment for the show. Michael is and will always be my favorite artist, humanitarian and inspiration. Being part of the campaign of this film is extremely full-circle and everything greater than special to me. I am absolutely humbled and honored!”
“It is always a tremendous honor to represent our institution and band program on a national stage,” Roderick Little, Ph.D., band director of the Sonic Boom added. “This opportunity and iconic moment carries even greater significance as we celebrate the legacy of Michael Jackson, arguably one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Most importantly, this experience represents a milestone that our students will cherish for a lifetime. It is an achievement they will proudly look back on and say they were part of something truly special.”
Jackson State University’s Sonic Boom of the South proudly joins “MICHAEL CELEBRATES: Legacy, Artistry, Culture” - JSU Newsroom
Kelli Sharpe (Jackson, MS) Today, in celebration of Black History Month and in anticipation of the worldwide theatrical release of “MICHAEL,” Jackson State University’s Sonic Boom of the South steps into the national spotlight once again with a powerful performance of Michael Jackson’s classic...
www.jsumsnews.com
Hedgy
Active Member
The band has always had some version of what I call the "swag and sway"
. But over the past few years, they have perfected the style.
bernard
THEE Realist
On the first episode of “Battle of The Bands,” Sonic Boom members break down the iconic “swing and sway.”
“The rocking movement that you see us do is called the swing and sag that helps distinguish us from any other band. And if you see us from the far, you’ll see the plumes, which are the white things on top of our head. You’ll see them moving in a swaying motion. When you see that it’ll let you know that the whole band in on one accord,” says a band member.
Combined with the momentum of the crowd, the Sonic Boom’s “swing and sway” is just the warm up for their vigorous performance. At one point, the musicians hold their leg in a “chair” position/ 90 degree angle before charging onto the field in formation.
“Yeah, there’s other great bands out here and give credit where due, but marching in with the Sonic Boom Of The South, I don’t think there’s no other feeling,” another student explains in the clip.
hellobeautiful.com
A long lost BOOM tradition is officially back
“The rocking movement that you see us do is called the swing and sag that helps distinguish us from any other band. And if you see us from the far, you’ll see the plumes, which are the white things on top of our head. You’ll see them moving in a swaying motion. When you see that it’ll let you know that the whole band in on one accord,” says a band member.
Combined with the momentum of the crowd, the Sonic Boom’s “swing and sway” is just the warm up for their vigorous performance. At one point, the musicians hold their leg in a “chair” position/ 90 degree angle before charging onto the field in formation.
“Yeah, there’s other great bands out here and give credit where due, but marching in with the Sonic Boom Of The South, I don’t think there’s no other feeling,” another student explains in the clip.
Behind The Battle: The Sonic Boom Of The South
This Facebook Watch series goes behind the scenes of the Jackson State University marching band "the Sonic Boom of the South."
hellobeautiful.com
A long lost BOOM tradition is officially back
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bernard
THEE Realist
Jackson State Marching Band Gets Exclusive 'Michael' Biopic Screening - Jackson Today
The Jackson State University (JSU) Sonic Boom of the South Marching Band received an exclusive screening of the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic 'Michael' on Tuesday night at Northpark Mall in Jackson, Mississippi. The Lionsgate screening honored JSU band members who are featured in the film...
nationaltoday.com
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