Southern’s Human Jukebox Eyes Atlanta Stage in Band of the Year Quest
The Southern University Human Jukebox is among the most legendary names in HBCU marching band history. Known well beyond Baton Rouge, the program carries unmatched prestige, but one milestone has remained elusive: a trip to the Red Lobster Band of the Year finale in Atlanta. For director Dr. Kedric Taylor, that challenge speaks to both the pressure and pride of guiding one of the “blue bloods” of HBCU band culture.
The Weight of Expectations
Taylor admitted that leading Southern means performing under constant scrutiny.
“When you think about Southern University, our band has always been critiqued harder than everybody else,” he said. “Every mistake Southern band makes is going to definitely be broadcast.”
Unlike other programs that can develop without much attention, the Human Jukebox performs under a permanent spotlight. That visibility, Taylor said, makes every performance feel like a championship game.
“We’re everybody’s Super Bowl,” he explained.
And fittingly, the Human Jukebox has been a regular at the actual Super Bowl, further proof of its national impact. Beyond the performances, the band has influenced music education across the country.
“This band definitely places a lot of music educators in positions,” Taylor noted. “So when you think about music education—we have some phenomenal musicians here.”
Currently, 13 HBCU band directors are alumni of the Human Jukebox, highlighting its legacy as both a cultural and educational powerhouse.
Marching Toward Atlanta
Even with its history, Southern remains hungry for the opportunity to shine on the Band of the Year stage.
“We would love to be there, to put on a show,” Taylor said. “I definitely love the opportunity for our students to come back. Atlanta is a great place to perform.”
But he also emphasized that the journey is about maintaining excellence week after week, not just chasing one moment.
“If we make it to Atlanta, it’s great,” Taylor said. “If not, there are other things that are going to be out there for us to do.”
Whether or not they reach Atlanta in December, Southern’s Human Jukebox continues to carry the weight of tradition, influence, and an unmatched spotlight in HBCU band culture.
