News Release: ASU Marching Rams Show Band Makes History

ALBANY, Ga. – The Albany State University (ASU) Marching Rams Show Band (MRSB) will make history this fall as the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) band to perform in America’s Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit, Michigan.

“We are honored to have Albany State University in the 100th America’s Thanksgiving Parade presented by Gardner White! We welcome them to Detroit and look forward to seeing this wonderful band on Woodward Avenue, Thanksgiving morning,” said Tony Michaels, President and CEO of The Parade Company.

The milestone performance will take place during the parade’s 100th anniversary celebration on Thursday, November 26, 2026. One of the nation’s oldest and most celebrated holiday traditions, the parade draws hundreds of thousands of spectators along its three-mile route and millions more through televised broadcasts.

Dr. William Brooks’s connection to America’s Thanksgiving Parade spans decades, making this moment especially meaningful. As a Detroit native, he first participated in the parade as a middle and high school student, later returning as a high school band director, where he led his Tennessee-based band to a first-place finish. Now, as Director of Bands at Albany State University, Brooks returns once again—this time leading the Marching Rams Show Band—marking a full-circle moment as he brings his students to perform on the same streets that helped shape his musical journey.

“This parade is such a special moment for me. I was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. To return now as a college band director, bringing my students to my hometown, is truly a full-circle moment. What makes it even more meaningful is that we are making history,” said Dr. William Brooks, Director of Bands, Albany State University.

The parade will step off at 8:45 a.m. EST at Woodward Avenue and Kirby Street, traveling through downtown Detroit before concluding at Woodward Avenue and Congress Street.

Leading up to the performance, the Marching Rams Show Band will engage in community outreach across the Detroit area, including visits to K-12 schools for recruitment, performances, and cultural exchange. The band will proudly showcase its signature identity as the “Soul of Southwest Georgia,” highlighting both Albany State University and the region on a national stage.

“This is an impactful moment for many of us. We have the opportunity to share our talent, passion, and dedication while upholding the standard of excellence of HBCUs on a national stage. Every note we play reflects our preparation, commitment, and pride,” said Christopher Pennyman, Albany State University Junior Music Education Major, and Clarinet Musician.

Recognized as one of the nation’s premier HBCU marching ensembles, the Marching Rams Show Band is known for its dynamic performances, precision, and electrifying sound. Under Dr. Brooks’ leadership since 2023, the program has experienced significant growth and national recognition, including participation in the National Battle of the Bands and being named an ESPN “Band to Watch.”

Under Dr. Brook’s leadership, the band has experienced remarkable growth, expanding from just 26 musicians to reaching its goal of 160 members in only four years.

“This is more than a performance. It’s an opportunity to represent Albany State University, honor the legacy of HBCU bands, and share this experience with the city that helped shape who I am,” said Dr. Brooks.

The invitation to perform in America’s Thanksgiving Parade not only highlights the band’s excellence, but also reflects Albany State University’s continued commitment to showcasing student talent, cultural pride, and academic achievement on some of the nation’s most prestigious stages.