Homecoming season is underway, and with it comes celebrity visits across multiple HBCU campuses. Most recently, hitmakers Brandy and Kirk Franklin visited Alabama A&M University, where the school’s Marching Maroon and White band welcomed them with performances of their latest songs.
Brandy, who lends her voice to the opening theme song for the ‘A Different World’ reboot, visited the band room as students prepared to perform for the Grammy-winning singer. As the director got things started, Brandy’s face lit up when the familiar sounds of the new theme song began to play. As the performance continued, the singer joined in, singing a snippet of the beloved opener.
Brandy shared her appreciation, saying:
“Thank you guys, wow, that’s beautiful!”
But that wasn’t all! A week earlier, gospel music mainstay Kirk Franklin also visited AAMU as the band celebrated his latest single, “This Time,” featuring rapper GloRilla.
Franklin spent time with the Marching Maroon and White, and when the band began performing the song, he did what he does best: dancing, shouting, and giving the students their well-deserved props. AAMU band staff shared that the students learned the number in just one week of practice, making the performance even more impressive.
As the performance unfolded, Franklin couldn’t contain his excitement, exclaiming:
“Whoa, that is crazy! Wow!”
With homecoming season bringing more celebrity interactions to HBCU campuses, Brandy and Kirk Franklin are adding to the history of Alabama A&M and HBCU band culture. These latest visits from the two award-winning artists highlight the special connection between musicians and the students who celebrate their work, with many recognizing that one of the most valuable gifts celebrities can give HBCU communities is their time.
