From Halftime to Hollywood: JSU Celebrates the Michael Biopic in Jxn
When Lionsgate came looking for a band that understood Michael Jackson's showmanship, they didn't have to look far.
Jackson State University's Sonic Boom of the South had been speaking that language for years — and the Michael biopic premiere gave them a red carpet to prove it.
Jackson State University drum majors took the field with confidence as the first notes of "Thriller" played at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium. Their moves were precise, with spins and timing that matched the famous song by Michael Jackson. This performance was part of a promotional campaign for the upcoming Michael film, featuring music and showmanship to honor his legacy.
The Sonic Boom and the Sound of Michael Jackson
JSU has a long history with Michael Jackson's music and style. The Sonic Boom of the South is known for its energy, and the Jackson 5's influence shows in its routines and drum major style. The drum majors, known as the "J5," reflect this through their choreography, sharp stops, smooth formations, and stage presence.
A Red-Carpet Moment for Jackson State
Lionsgate invited members of The Sonic Boom of the South and the university to a special screening of the new biopic, Michael, as part of the film's promotion. Students got to see the film early, celebrate Michael Jackson's story, and meet actor Larenz Tate, who plays Motown founder Berry Gordy. Before the screening, students enjoyed a red-carpet experience, with guests arriving in Michael Jackson-inspired outfits from different stages of his career, adding to the excitement before the movie began.
Showmanship That Speaks the Same Language
The Sonic Boom stands out for shows that are more than just marching band performances. They combine music, movement, and style, much as Michael Jackson did, making the moonwalk his signature. His shows were about more than singing; they were about every step, turn, and beat coming together to tell a story. That same vibe is clear in JSU's performances today.
The Name "Jackson" Carries Extra Weight
The name Jackson carries extra weight: a City With Soul, a university that shares the name and a movie that celebrates an icon whose moves the band has echoed for years, brought to life by drum majors whose very nickname recalls Michael's childhood group with his siblings Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon.
Jackson's Legacy, On and Off the Field
Being part of this event will have a lasting impact on Jackson State and the city. It connects their field performances to a global legacy that continues to inspire artists today. Michael Jackson's influence is still clear in the Boom's precise and energetic shows.
Michael is now playing for a limited run at the Capri Theatre, a Mississippi landmark in Fondren.
