This past weekend, parents, fans and alumni drove from across the nation to witness Jackson State University’s Sonic Boom of the South introduce its newest batch of musicians during Thee Merge, a tradition that caps off the summer band camp for recruits and introduces the complete ensemble to an venue packed with fans and parents.
During the event Dr. Roderick Little took a moment to express his gratitude to the parents who filled the stands, acknowledging their support and encouragement. He highlighted the invaluable efforts of the band staff and extended a special thank-you to the donors contributing towards the band’s upcoming trip to the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California. As the fundraising efforts move closer to the $1,000,000 mark, the Sonic Boom is poised to represent not just JSU but the broader HBCU legacy on a global stage.
The Sonic Boom is no stranger to the limelight. Earlier this year, they captivated a worldwide audience by performing alongside Usher at Super Bowl LVIII, a testament to their talent and hard work. The group is now preparing for the National Battle of the Bands on August 25 in Houston, where they will kick off their season competing against a host of other esteemed HBCU bands.
As the season approaches, the band’s first stop will be at the University of Louisiana Monroe on August 29. But the most anticipated event on their calendar is an early matchup against Southern University’s Human Jukebox during the Boombox Classic.
