Florida A&M University Marching 100 before their halftime performance against North Carolina Central University | Photo credit: Ahmon Lott
The notorious “Marching 100” from Florida A&M University will be performing in the 2019 Parade of Roses in Pasadena, California.
Widely accepted as the best band in the land, the Marching 100 has traveled all around the world spreading their tunes since their inception in 1946. The 100 has made numerous appearances in the Super Bowl, performing in the legendary Carnegie Hall, and even participating in the inauguration parade of the 44th President, Barack Obama.
This time, the renowned Marching 100 will participate in one of the most famous New Year’s Day parades. The Parade of Roses will be broadcast in over 200 countries, with more than 60 million viewers. In addition to the television audience, there will be another 700,000 in attendance for the 5-mile parade.
With such a large audience, this will provide even more exposure for both the marching band, and the university. The appearance in the parade will assist in efforts that University administration, namely the athletic department, has placed upon recruitment.
“Our students continue to be recognized for excellence, hard work and their dedication to being the best in musicianship, performance and academics,” said band Director Shelby Chipman.
January of 2019 will mark the 130th anniversary for the Parade of Roses, and it will be the first time the Marching 100 will participate.
Percussionist Alychia Cole said, “Having the opportunity to travel to California, and participate in a parade of this magnitude is a dream come true, and honestly, a huge reason I wanted to be apart of the 100.”
According to USA Today, the Parade of Roses officials chose the Rattlers Marching Band because of incredible talent, dedication, and showmanship in music.
“With support of the FAMUly and band alumni, I’m sure we will succeed in getting our Rattlers to California to participate in a legendary parade, and represent the university in the best of ways,” said former band member Nick Atcherson.
The band has begun fundraising efforts for the trip to California just about 15 months away. Donations can be made to the FAMU Foundation Office, and they can be contacted at 850-412-5755, or you could visit them at 625 E. Tennessee St., Tallahassee, Florida 32308.