Alcorn State University’s legendary Funky Four drum majors are celebrating their 40th anniversary this year, marking four decades of the high-energy, precision-driven showmanship that defines the Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite Marching Band. Established in 1985 under the visionary leadership of the late Samuel “Griff” Griffin, then-Director of Bands, the Funky Four tradition has grown into a defining symbol of HBCU marching culture, blending artistry, athleticism, and musicality into a performance style recognized around the world.
LtoR: Michael Harper, Travon Neal, Michael Gee, & Raymond Neal (deceased)
The legacy began with the four founding members: the late Raymond Neal; Michael Gee of Memphis, Tenn.; Travon Neal of Houston, Texas; and Michael Harper of Jackson, Miss. These pioneers transformed the role of the drum major from one of simple direction to one of dynamic performance, introducing synchronized, dance-infused routines that combined precision, power, and flair.
Michael Harper, a founding member who now serves as drum major sponsor, reflected on his deep-rooted connection to the program and his decision to return to guide the next generation.
“If you opened up the dictionary and looked up the word ‘bandhead,’ you’d probably see my picture,” Harper said with a laugh. “I would consider myself a diehard bandhead.”
He remembers how 1985 marked a turning point for the band.
“Before then, you’d usually see one gentleman and a young lady, or maybe two young ladies and a guy,” Harper explained. “That year, we had four drum majors for the first time. We didn’t realize it at the time, but that was history in the making.”
Griffin’s philosophy of impeccable showmanship and marching precision continues to define the Funky Four’s magnetic style. Their movements, inspired by the syncopated rhythms of the funk era, emphasize “playing on the one”, the first beat of the measure, creating the powerful, danceable groove that has become their hallmark.
That commitment to technical excellence and performance intensity remains the driving force behind the group today.
“I’m all about precision,” Harper said. “We’ve got to get back to that grit. We’ve got to be that cutting edge. Maintaining that style and ensuring it stays alive. That’s important to me. That’s my passion.”
The tradition continues through mentorship and the passing down of standards from one generation to the next.
For the 2025–26 season, the program features five drum majors. The lineup includes head drum major LaZarion Gary of Killeen, Texas, a graduate student studying business administration; Akira Scott, a senior biology major; Caleb Turner of Greenville, Miss., a junior agricultural science major; Ashton Murphy of Vicksburg, Miss., a senior biology–pre-professional major; and Tra’Main Warren, a junior agricultural business major.
Harper said his focus is on discipline, clarity, and consistency.
“I’m all about expectations and being very clear about them,” he said. “There’s no gray area. There’s no room for error or drifting from the goal. They are the standard. They are the example.”
But for Harper, mentorship extends beyond music and movement.
“It’s not just about teaching routines,” he said. “It’s about teaching them how to march, how to lead, and how to carry themselves as men and women of purpose. Leadership isn’t just something we talk about — it’s something we model.”
For four decades, the Funky Four have embodied Alcorn’s values of excellence, discipline, and pride. Through rhythm and mentorship, their legacy continues to inspire — a living tradition that remains a cornerstone of the Alcorn family.
