February 28, 2026
Michael Jackson Biopic Taps ‘Human Jukebox’ ‘Sonic Boom’ And ‘Marching 100’ To Honor His Legacy
The HBCU bands' recruitment is tied to the promotional campaign for the new biographical film 'MICHAEL.'
Florida A&M University’s Marching “100”, Southern University’s “Human Jukebox”, and Jackson State’s “Sonic Boom” paid homage to music icon Michael Jackson with on-field performances.
The recruitment of HBCU bands is tied to the promotional campaign for the new biographical film “MICHAEL.” Celebrations of Jackson’s influence have always echoed loudly across HBCU communities, including past tributes by Southern University bands. The Marching “100” performed a rendition of Jackson’s hit “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” as part of the “MICHAEL” X HBCU Marching Bands Initiative.
Florida A&M President Marva B. Johnson said the tribute reflects a “shared tradition of excellence” and Jackson’s transformative impact on music, Black culture, and popular culture alike. The Marching 100 is not new to celebrating the King of Pop. Over the years, the band has created routines for its solo hits, including “Heal the World,” “The Jackson 5’s Never Can Say Goodbye,” and “I’ll Be There.”
Jackson State, no stranger to HBCU excellence, has also been a longtime supporter of Jackson’s life and legacy. After the King of Pop’s passing, the band put on a full-scale tribute to honor his legacy. In addition to its tribute, the Sonic Boom of the South has performed compositions of “Dirty Diana,” “I Can’t Help It,” and “P.Y.T.” Jackson has been gone for slightly under two decades, but the dedication of bands like The Sonic Boom continues to make sure his soulful, funky, and enduring legacy lives on.
Southern University’s famed band, the Human Jukebox, has a long history of celebrating Michael Jackson’s repertoire in its shows. Past performances by the band have included staged tributes to Jackson classics. The band has performed arrangements of “Liberian Girl,” “Thriller,” and “Blood on the Dance Floor” that honor the late artist’s catalogue and prominence in collegiate marching band format. Videos of past and present reflect the deep connection between Jackson’s legacy and HBCU band culture.
The Human Jukebox, the official marching band of Southern University and A&M College, has drawn acclaim for its showmanship and dynamic performances, and its Jackson tributes have been part of home game celebrations and the famed Battle of the Bands at the Bayou Classic. These nods to Jackson’s catalogue have helped keep Jackson’s legacy and artistry alive for generations to come.
Lionsgate’s digital marketing team said the tribute’s connection to Jackson’s legacy “continues to resonate with HBCU communities,” where music, movement, and rhythm are central to cultural expression. Tapping the baddest bands in the land was a no-brainer.
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