HBCU Band Receives $50K from NFL Stars After Super Bowl Performance

By Ashley Brown

The Southern University Human Jukebox Marching Band is marching into the spotlight this Super Bowl season, and they are not doing it alone. Following an electrifying performance during the Nightcap’s Live Super Bowl Show, the famed HBCU band received a significant financial boost thanks to former NFL stars Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson.

Sharpe and Johnson encouraged the audience to donate to the band during the show. The duo made headlines when they publicly committed to support the band financially, pledging a total of $50,000. “I’m going to be the first to donate. I’m going to give $25k out of my own pocket,” Sharpe announced to the crowd.

Johnson didn’t hesitate to follow suit, asking, “So if you donating $25k, I got to match what you doing, Unc?” Although Sharpe playfully insisted he didn’t have to match the donation, Johnson emphasized, “But I should.”

Sharpe and Johnson encouraged the audience to donate to the band during the show. The duo made headlines when they publicly committed to support the band financially, pledging a total of $50,000. “I’m going to be the first to donate. I’m going to give $25k out of my own pocket,” Sharpe announced to the crowd.

Johnson didn’t hesitate to follow suit, asking, “So if you donating $25k, I got to match what you doing, Unc?” Although Sharpe playfully insisted he didn’t have to match the donation, Johnson emphasized, “But I should.”

“The best band in the land met the best podcast in the game, and the result? Unmatched energy, unforgettable moments, and an electrifying performance,” the band shared in part on Instagram.

The Southern University Human Jukebox also performed during the Super Bowl Opening Concert on Sunday at the Caesars Superdome, an arena where they’ve made memorable appearances. The pregame performance followed their 2025 Rose Parade, multiple Essence Festivals, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade performances.

Their participation in the Super Bowl highlighted their incredible talents, emphasized the importance of community support, and showed the pride that comes from representing historically Black colleges and universities on such a grand stage.

With alumni backing and supporters like Sharpe and Johnson, the Human Jukebox continues to thrive, showcasing the talent and culture of HBCUs to a wider audience.