The Concert Choir will team up with Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys to sing her update version of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” at Raymond James Stadium, says NFL Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility Anna Issacson.
“This will mark the first time ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ will be sung live at an NFL stadium and we are looking forward to shining a light on such a versatile and talented choir, while also honoring the legacy of the song,” Issacson says.
Choir Director Mark Butler, DMA, says the preparation for the NFL Kickoff performance has been exciting for the students and staff.
“We are fortunate to have been selected for this performance, and our hope is that our presentation will serve to inspire and uplift those who’ll hear us sing,” Butler says.
The release says 50 members of the Marching 100 Band will perform around 6 p.m. on Sept. 9 at the NFL Kickoff Experience at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park. Ed Sheeran will headline the event, which will also feature Buccaneers cheerleaders, mascot and drumline, local musicians, NFL legends and more, according to the release.
Band Director Shelby Chipman, Ph.D., says performing in Tampa is a proper prelude to the first home football game at Bragg Memorial Stadium in almost two years.
“Our Marching 100 members will remind American football fans what it means to be the best band in the land,” Chipman says. “We will give them a treat. We are honored to be invited to perform.”
This year alone, the Marching 100 has performed at the NBA All-Star game, and the virtual Biden Inauguration. Late last year, the 100rd and the choir were called upon to perform with Grammy Award winning gospel music star Tye Tribbett for BET's virtual HBCU Homecoming.