Texas Southern University’s Ocean of Soul has made it to one of the most iconic pages in publishing, and the timing could not have been more perfect.
The Houston HBCU’s world-renowned marching band, under the direction of Brian Simmons, has been featured in Vogue’s Summer 2026 issue in an article titled “Lone Star State of Mind: Snapshots of Texas Today.”
The issue hit newsstands on Juneteenth, a date that carries much significance, particularly in Texas, where the holiday commemorates June 19, 1865, the day Union troops arrived in Galveston to announce the end of slavery. For a band rooted in Black excellence and HBCU culture, the timing is right.
The spread features the full Ocean of Soul ensemble, celebrating Texas culture in true TSU tradition. The shoot was captured right on the campus of Texas Southern University, with the full story available on Vogue.com and physical copies available wherever magazines are sold.
This is not the first time the Ocean of Soul has reminded the world of its greatness. Back in 2024, the band took center stage at the ‘Beyoncé Bowl,’ reminding everyone exactly what HBCU band culture looks like on the biggest stage in the world.
TSU President J.W. Crawford III was proud, sharing:
“To be in Vogue is incredible, and for this to happen on Juneteenth, in the region where Juneteenth began, is revelational. The University’s presence in such a renowned publication is an acknowledgment of sustained excellence, cultural roots, and a band program that has been revolutionary in its approach to communicating with and relating to diverse audiences while performing on the largest stages.”
Go Tigers!
