It is a legendary institution.

​

An opportunity to witness the Southern University Marching Band is an opportunity to witness music in motion. This band has raised the bar and set precedents for other collegiate marching bands and ensembles. Often imitated, but never duplicated, the band prides itself in the unique ability to execute precision drills better than any other marching ensemble in the country.

​

Globally known as “The Human Jukebox,” the band is able to perform any musical arrangement, give it newfound emotion and radiate that “old Southern spirit” to the masses. The “Jaguar Rock,” high steps and meticulous formations are only a few of the skills that contribute to the Human Jukebox’s “flash.” The 230-member ensemble has captivated audiences worldwide and redefined the term “college-style band.” Its nine-member dance troupe, the Dancing Dolls, complements as artistic and aesthetic icing on the cake. 

​

PATTY. MOSLEY. DAVIS. FREEMAN. GREGGS. JACKSON. HAYMER.

​

Seven directors have been bestowed the honor of creating the legacy that is the Southern University Marching Band. Ella Amacker PATTY formed the first ensemble. J.O.B. MOSLEY created the first marching ensemble. T. Leroy DAVIS was responsible for the pageantry drill concept. Ludwig FREEMAN introduced the block letter concept and patterns in motion to the band; he also is credited for designing the uniforms still worn today. Isaac GREGGS introduced the Precision Drill Concept, flash and world-wide recognition to the band, including the uniforms’ capes and Columbia Blue overlay. Under Lawrence JACKSON, the band expanded, performed before international audiences and was ranked by the NCAA as the No. 2 (and only HBCU) marching band in the nation. Nathan B. HAYMER is the future of the Southern University Marching Band, taking the reins to lead the Human Jukebox into unchartered educational, performance and sponsorship territories, including an unprecedented corporate partnership with Yamaha.

​

Such legacies were catalytic in producing the band’s enviable repertoire; one that boasts local, national and international appearances and accolades, and many which were etched in our nation’s history books. One historic moment for the band hit very close to home. It was when the New Orleans Saints returned to the Louisiana Superdome on Aug. 25, 2006 to play their first home game since Hurricane Katrina destroyed the dome. The Human Jukebox ushered in the rebirth of the Saints, as it entertained more than 75,000 attending fans and millions of viewers during a very emotional halftime.

 

For more about the SU's Human Jukebox Marching Band visit, http://humanjukeboxonline.com/