The Howard 100
Hip-Hop, HU Showtime Marching Band & the Spirit of Homecoming
In 2024, Howard University proudly marks its 100th Homecoming Anniversary. When discussing homecomings at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), many consider HU the gold standard (and yes, I admit to being biased because I’m an Alum). Setting aside my bias, the lineup of Hip-Hop and R&B icons who have performed at Yardfest, R&B concerts, and various events over the years is unmatched when you compare it to other HBCU and predominantly white institutions (PWI) Homecomings across the nation.
Hip-Hop and Homecoming
Legends like Notorious B.I.G., 2Pac, and Jay-Z have performed on our Homecoming stage/yard. Newer stars like Drake, Rick Ross, T.I., 2 Chainz, Glorilla, Flo Milli, DaBaby, Offset, Victoria Monét, and Chloe x Halle have also brought their talents to our campus in recent years.
HBCU Homecomings hold a deep connection with urban music. Many of our urban music artists began their journeys on our stages as they climbed toward stardom. Consequently, these communal celebrations have become a platform for emerging Black talent and creativity while also functioning as fall family reunions for students from Black colleges, their families, and local communities.
HU Showtime Marching Band
Additionally, I can’t overlook the crucial role of the Marching Band at HBCU Homecomings. While some may believe my path toward a medical career led me to Howard University, the truth is it was my love for music. Growing up, my Mom took me to the Gateway Classic annually. This event is a Battle of the Bands competition in St. Louis, bringing together marching bands from across the country. I grew particularly fond of Arkansas Pine Bluff and, of course, the Howard University Showtime Marching Band. I would watch from the stands, captivated by their high-stepping, musicianship, and I dreamed of one day donning the Howard uniform myself.
There was something incredibly moving about Howard's rendition of “Skin I’m In" that struck a chord inside me. The heartfelt delivery of “I’m So Glad” by the marching band students stuck with me for years as well.
My Journey to the Mecca, through Music
After attending two classics by the time I was 12, I told my Mom about my ambitions. On our way home, she provided a reality check. She told me, "If you want to pursue your dreams, you need to realize that those musicians in Howard’s uniform are unique because they attended one of the best Black universities in the country." She emphasized that if I was serious, I would need to excel both academically and musically in high school, aiming for not just academic scholarships but also those for the marching band in college since finances were tight and she could not afford to send me otherwise, even if I was accepted. Two weeks after turning 17, I received my acceptance letter to Howard University, and three months later, I was delighted to learn I had been accepted into the Showtime Marching Band, receiving a scholarship as well. I cherish that initial conversation with my Mom every single day. It was the spark for all my professional pursuits thereafter.
If you’ve had the honor of attending an HBCU, you likely understand the enchantment of Homecoming, even beyond the music. But if you haven't, I highly encourage you to be a part of it at least once. It's an experience you won’t find replicated anywhere else. I hope that as my family grows, I will have the privilege of sharing the joy of the Showtime Marching Band with my children in the future, just as my Mom did for me, hoping they too will fall in love with the artistry of high-stepping and live performances.
Happy 100th Homecoming Anniversary, Howard University!
And Easy Listening, The Urban Music Enthusiast.