Sonic Boom of the South: A Marching Ensemble

The “Sonic Boom” has performed many halftime appearances for the Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions, New Orleans Saints, and Cincinnati Bengals; a television special for Motown 30th Anniversary and the 34th NAACP Image Awards, with a special guest performance by “Cedric the Entertainer.” The band is a favored entry in halftime performances during football season as well as for parades across Mississippi and in other states. The Jackson State University Marching Band was dubbed “The Sonic Boom of the South” in 1971 by students in the band. In 1974, the band’s theme, “Get Ready,” an old Motown favorite was selected, and three years after that, the “Tiger Run-On” was perfected. The “Tiger Run-On” is a fast, eye-catching shuffle that blends an adagio step with an up-tempo shuffle, then back to adagio—a “Sonic Boom” trademark that brings fans to their feet during halftime performances.

Vision

While maintaining the rich traditions of the program and propelling it forward, we will strive to be one of the top music programs in the nation that fosters effective thinkers, high character, active learners, proficient musicians and future alumni.

Mission

To create a positive culture of people/musicians through the medium of music while being the leaders in band pageantry, discipline, and musicality as a result of staying true to our band pledge (We pledge to serve as ambassadors of goodwill for Jackson State University; presenting ourselves as a showcase of musical excellence, elegance, esprit de corps and dignity. Love the Boom!)