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TSU Alumna Brandy Tate Breaks Barriers as ESPN Director, Brings First Take to TSU

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –  As one of the few Black female directors at ESPN, Tennessee State University alumna Brandy Tate brings her vision, creativity, and leadership from behind the camera to the forefront.

A key figure in directing what ESPN audiences see on air every day, the 2002 TSU graduate has made her mark in the male-dominated world of sports media.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Tate stands out as a trailblazer. She is one of the few women directing content at ESPN, having led major programs such as NFL Live, Tom Brady: Inside the Arena, the College Football Championship, and First Take, including its HBCU On the Road tour.

Brandy Tate, right, directs alongside Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Tate played a pivotal role in bringing First Take to TSU’s campus for Homecoming 2024, a historic moment that showcased TSU on a national stage. Her dedication continues to amplify the visibility and impact of HBCUs.

“We’re creating something unprecedented,” Tate said, referring to the opportunity to bring First Take to TSU—an event that drew hundreds of TSU supporters on campus and nearly 350,000 viewers on ESPN.

 “That’s the impact I want to have. I want to keep HBCUs alive and vibrant,” she said.

Tate, a mother of one, said that the collaboration between First Take and TSU was a significant milestone in her career. It was not only an opportunity to bring the show to campus but also to hire students as part of the production crew for the day, providing them with hands-on experience and exposure on national television.

Brandy Tate, left, with former Pittsburgh Steelers safety and current ESPN analyst Ryan Clark at the Emmys Awards.

 She credited her time at TSU, where she majored in radio and TV production, with instilling in her the qualities of adaptability and perseverance.

“With these opportunities, we can hire women and provide them with a meaningful place in this industry. That’s why I love what I do,” she said. “TSU has taught me so much, and my time at the university was truly invaluable.”

Prior to becoming a director at ESPN, Tate was a radio director in Louisiana. She later became an associate director for ESPN, working her way up over seven years to earn her current position.

Her impact in sports broadcasting is further recognized with a feature in Essence Magazine’s The Women’s Playbook, solidifying her role as a leader in the field. Tate also served as Co-Leader of P.U.L.S.E., an ESPN Employee Resource Group dedicated to the development and support of African American employees within the company.

“Women are built differently. We’re essential in every space because we bring a unique perspective,” Tate said. “I may be one of the first, but I won’t be the last. We must be intentional about hiring more women.”

For Tate, the best part about Women’s History Month is celebrating the contributions and sense of community among women. “I know sports are often seen as a ‘male-driven league,’ but women are essential. We bring a unique and valuable perspective to everything we do,” she said.

Tate’s journey represents progress for women in sports media, an industry where Black women remain underrepresented in leadership roles. But for her, breaking barriers is just the beginning.

“You’re going to hear a lot of no’s, but don’t ever stop,” she said.

From TSU to ESPN, Tate continues to open those doors, not just for herself, but for the next generation of women in sports media.

Click here to see how Tate prepared First Take and secured TSU’s place on the show’s HBCU tour.

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TSU Shines at HBCU Day at the Capitol

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University was among the state’s HBCUs represented recently at the Day at the Capitol. The annual event brings together students, faculty, and supporters from Tennessee’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities to engage with state legislators, highlighting the achievements and needs of these institutions. TSU’s presence raised awareness of the contributions of HBCUs, advocate for supportive funding and policies, and helps to strengthen the relationship between these institutions and state lawmakers.

TSU student Chandler Hollis, right, presents State Representative David Hawk with a TSU gift bag during HBCU Day at the Capitol.

Nearly 40 TSU representatives attended the event On Feb. 18, including interim President Dwayne Tucker, students from the Dr. Levi Watkins Jr. program, the Student Government Association, Honors College, and more. Students distributed gift bags to all House representatives and senators, each containing TSU gear along with flower bulbs from the College of Agriculture.

Chandler Hollis, a junior biology major and a Dr. Levi Watkins Jr., scholar, shared his thoughts on representing TSU at the Capitol. “I got the chance to sit down and speak with representatives,” Hollis said. “My HBCU… we’re good enough, and I have been afforded the opportunity to be here at the Capitol for a reason. We’re not here just because—we’re here because we are a prestigious school, and I take pride in Tennessee State University.”

From left to right, TSU students Linzee Nelson, Chrishonda O’Quinn, and Erin Armstrong.

Chrishonda O’Quinn, SGA president, highlighted the importance of the experience, saying, “This was my first time participating in HBCU Day at the Capitol. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to represent our university and showcase its achievements while advocating for support from legislators. It’s a chance to network and promote us as students pursuing degrees and building successful careers. This experience can open doors to new opportunities beyond our time at the university.”

In addition to providing networking opportunities, the event highlighted TSU’s research and academic offerings. A major attraction was “Blue,” TSU’s robotic dog, which greeted lawmakers and drew attention to the display by the TSU SMART . The Center promotes digital literacy, inspiring smart connected innovations, and equipping students with essential technology skills for the digital workforce.

Dr. Robert O’Keefe Hassell, center, joins fellow Smart Center faculty and staff to showcase TSU’s robot dog, ‘Blue.’

Dr. Robert O’Keefe Hassell, executive director of TSU’s SMART Center, highlighted the center’s role in showcasing TSU’s innovative programs. “TSU is home to so many amazing things, and the SMART Center is one of those things,” he said. “We’re excited to be here to spread new innovations and technology, along with the amazing programs we offer at the TSU SMART Center.”

From left to right: Roderick Reed, Director of Marketing and Communications in Agriculture; House Representative Harold Love Jr.; and Lobbyist Leah Dupree Love.

Leah Dupree Love, a 2005 TSU alumna and a lobbyist with the Ingram Group, also underscored the day’s impact. “When we are educating Tennesseans, we are educating them to go out and prosper in all 95 counties,” Love said. “I wanted to make sure that this day was a success because HBCUs matter. These efforts are so important to TSU students and I hope students go back to campus rejuvenated.”

Darryl Thompson, Special Advisor to the president for External Relations, Infrastructure, and Major Projects, emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with lawmakers. “We were not here to erase the past but to build off the past and create a much brighter future,” Thompson said. “This visit is to ensure that students remain at the center of all decisions and that those decisions are best for the future of Tennessee State.”

HBCU Day at the Capitol not only allowed TSU to advocate for its needs but also reinforced its role as a future-ready institution, dedicated to advancing educational equity and creating opportunities for students, faculty, and the broader community.

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TSU named ‘a top’ Commercial Music Program again by Billboard, will hold inaugural career fair 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – For the second consecutive year, Tennessee State University has been recognized by Billboard Magazine as one of the 2024 Top Music Business Schools. TSU’s commercial music program, within the university’s music department, joins over 25 internationally acclaimed music business programs in receiving this prestigious recognition.

TSU commercial music program continues to distinguish itself as the oldest accredited program of its kind at an HBCU. TSU’s Nashville location, combined with faculty who are active in the industry, gives students unique, hands-on learning experiences. The October issue of Billboard highlights TSU’s commitment to current industry trends, its low faculty-to-student ratio, and its emphasis on industry site visits, guest speakers, and internship opportunities. 

Dr. Mark Crawford

Dr. Mark Crawford, music professor and coordinator of the commercial music program said this recognition speaks to the quality and consistency of the program. “Receiving this accolade two years in a row shows our students are actively engaged in internships, placements, and other vital experiences,” he said.

Building on this momentum, TSU’s commercial music program will host its first-ever music industry career fair on November 15. Offering students a networking platform, the career fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center. This event will connect students and faculty with nearly 30 established companies, including UMG, Concord, Live Nation, SESAC, Nashville Symphony, Sweetwater, Endeavor and more.

While TSU holds successful career fairs each semester, Crawford recognized the need for an event specifically tailored to students pursuing careers in music and entertainment. “This career fair is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce directly,” Crawford said. The goal is to build a pipeline for students by connecting them with leading organizations, from record labels to talent agencies, PROs, financial management firms and more.

With over 25 years of partnerships and hands-on learning opportunities, TSU’s commercial music program has continually supported student success. Through connections with industry leaders like Wasserman Media Group and the PROPEL Center, an innovative hub for HBCU students developed in collaboration with Apple, TSU has built a robust network for students. Another aspect of the commercial music program is the music business accelerator program, a three-week Maymester course that collaborates with leading organizations and nonprofits.

For the past three years, TSU has collaborated with the Black Music Action Coalition to provide students with real-world experiences alongside companies like Apple Music, Live Nation, and Atlantic Records. The upcoming career fair aims to build on decades of commercial music efforts by providing students the opportunity to network directly with even more industry leaders.

Billboard selects top music business schools based on industry recommendations, alumni data, and nearly a decade of reporting. TSU’s consecutive recognition adds to its milestones as the university prepares the next generation of music industry leaders.

Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, expressed gratitude for the program’s achievements. “Our program celebrated its 25th anniversary last year and continues to prepare students for success,” she said. “This event will provide a networking opportunity to ensure that TSU continues producing prepared students to work in industry.”

Check out Billboard’s latest issue recognizing TSU at www.billboard.com/pro/top-music-business-schools-2024-list/.

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TSU Transfer students to benefit from new transcript technology

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has a new automated system that will significantly reduce wait time for students eager to know about their accepted credit hours. University officials say Parchment Raptor allows students to receive news about their credit evaluations within minutes, compared to waiting days. This will benefit transfer students and those who take college courses while still in high school.

TSU is the first public institution in the State to use the cutting-edge transcript processing software. The Registrar Office launched the Parchment Raptor on August 5.

Click here to watch Dr. Deams discuss the Parchment Raptor launch:

“We are excited to announce the launch of this new feature that automates the collection, data extraction, and integration of transcripts into Student Information Systems,” said Dr. Verontae Deams, TSU’s Associate Vice President and University Registrar.

“This collaboration with Parchment Raptor not only enhances efficiency and accuracy but also significantly reduces processing time, providing a seamless and improved experience for students and academic advisors alike.”

Cameron Felker

Previously, the process of receiving and evaluating transcripts could take anywhere from several hours to days. Now, with the automation powered by artificial intelligence, that timeframe has been decreased to just two minutes. Upon submission of their transcript, students receive an automated message notifying them that their transcript has been evaluated, along with the option to review their course credits through their DegreeWorks or MyTSU account.

Transfer students like Cameron Felker, a music major from Chicago, and Sheldon McMillan, a supply chain management major from Atlanta, are excited about the new system, despite having experienced the longer waiting periods themselves.

Felker, who transferred from the University of Memphis, recalls waiting nearly a month for an update on his transcript. “I would check almost two to three times a week to see if it came across,” he said. “With this automated system, it will make it way easier for students.”

McMillan had a similar experience, saying he waited over a month for answers regarding his credits from an online program. “I am glad that students coming after me will not have to deal with the same delays that I experienced.”

Prior to partnering with Parchment, TSU processed and managed transcripts manually, often times labor-intensive based on the number of credits and institutions that students had previously attended.

For more information on records and registration or to learn more about the Office of the Registrar, visit TSU Records and Registration.

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Tyler Perry Studios selects TSU student for internship

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tyler Perry Studios (TPS) just announced their second cohort of talented interns selected nationwide, and one of their hand-picked interns is a familiar face in the Big Blue community.

Briana Thomas, a mass communication student at Tennessee State University, was selected as one of 14 TPS Dreamers Intern Class of 2024 out of over 1,000 applicants. Thomas, of San Diego, California, is a rising senior with dreams of becoming an independent filmmaker. She just started the 6-week paid internship based in Atlanta, Georgia, working in deliverables, where she is responsible for delivering the movie or show episode for distribution.

“I was super excited when I was selected as I knew this was a great opportunity to learn and gain experience,” Thomas said. “It feels great to represent TSU and showcase the character, integrity, and work ethic instilled in me.”

Thomas noted that she found out about the opportunity in April and applied right away as she hopes to learn the ins and outs of production and how a studio is run day-to-day.

During her internship, Thomas is gaining work experience and networking opportunities to meet professionals who are available as mentors and industry contacts. Thomas said she is excited to contribute to one of the largest film production studios in the United States and is grateful that her university prepared her for this very moment.

“The whole mass communications department at Tennessee State University has prepared me for this opportunity,” she said, showing gratitude to her TSU professor and mentor who wrote her letter of recommendation.

Erik Werner, TSU’s Director of the Center for Media Arts and Production, said the department does its best to provide students with the skill set that will land them internship opportunities of this magnitude. Werner stated that he is proud of Thomas’ success so far and “feels great knowing that I helped.”

“Networks and studios will be fighting to hire her,” Werner said about Thomas’ drive and work ethic. “That’s how good she is and how good she is going to be.”

He noted that Thomas knew exactly what she wanted throughout her collegiate years for her career and has put in the effort to obtain any of her goals.

“It’s one thing to learn the basic skills but it’s another to turn around and learn the advanced skills and be adaptable,” Werner said. “To be able to adapt and roll with it is a huge ability that not everyone has.”

TPS Dreamers program allows interns like Thomas to receive first-hand knowledge of working for a multi-faceted entertainment company.

As Thomas continues her journey at Tyler Perry Studios, she looks forward to applying the knowledge and skills gained from this internship to her future career in filmmaking, aiming to tell compelling stories from diverse narratives, she said. Supported by her mentors and the foundation built at TSU, Thomas is excited about making a significant impact in the film and entertainment industry.

To learn more about the College of Liberal Arts, visit www.tnstate.edu/cla/.

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TSU professor designs Black History Month jersey for NHL Nashville Predators

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – When the Nashville Predators entered Bridgestone Arena this week to observe Black History Month, the NHL team wore a jersey designed by a Tennessee State University professor. Kaleena Sales, department chair and associate professor of art and design, revealed her design at the Predators Black History Celebration game on Wednesday, Jan. 31. Sales says the design offers a duality that bridges historical and contemporary Black culture.

I’m excited and honored to have the opportunity to represent TSU and Nashville as a Black designer,” Sales said.

A look at the front design for the Predators jerseys and T-shirts for the Black History Celebration game at Bridgestone Arena. (Photo submitted)

“To be celebrated professionally in such a public way means something to me. It speaks to the growth that we’ve had, and it honors what Black History Month celebration should really be about.”

This is the second consecutive year the Predators have chosen a TSU professor to design cultural jerseys and T-shirts for hockey players and fans, honoring Black History Month (BHM). The jerseys and T-shirts, designed by Sales and co-created with Predators graphic designer Tayshaun Hassell, were worn by players upon their arrival at the arena prior to game time. These items will be signed and auctioned off through the Nashville Predators’ Foundation at a later date.

Amy Bratten, the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Nashville Predators, said the organization anticipated showcasing the artistry in honor of the historical celebration.

“It is such a gift to have Kaleena Sales contribute to our Black History Celebration,” Bratten said.

“What Kaleena Sales and Preds Graphic Designer, Tayshaun Hassell, created is educational and dynamic. Our players and staff were excited to showcase the artwork on January 31. We’re excited to have the logo displayed all over Smashville!”

The black and gold jerseys and T-shirts, according to Sales, feature custom lively West African patterns symbolizing purity, wisdom, love, harmony, and more. The unique design was also showcased on lanyards distributed to the first 5,000 fans in attendance.

“The symbols were designed by the Akan people from Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana during the early 1800s and have a rich and beautiful history,” explained Sales.

“The geometric pattern used alongside the Adinkra symbols is meant to represent the vibrancy of contemporary Black culture.” 

Sales noted that the designs aim to honor the past by connecting it to the present. With over 20 years of experience as a graphic designer, Sales expressed the significance of this opportunity, emphasizing its importance not only for herself but also for the community she represents.

“This exposure is expected to bring increased visibility to TSU and the surrounding HBCUs.”

The Predator’s annual Black History celebration night recognized all four of Nashville’s HBCUs, featuring a battle of the bands with three local high schools, and included the National Anthem and in-game performances by Africa-American musical artists.

In 2023, the Nashville Predators selected Eric Jackson, TSU assistant professor of graphic design, to create the players jersey designs worn during the Black History Celebration game day warm-ups. Jackson expressed his appreciation for the continuous partnership between the organization and TSU, highlighting the ongoing acknowledgment of Black creatives.

“We are service providers, and we are mostly behind the scenes, so it’s great to be acknowledged,” Jackson said.

As a hockey fan, Jackson is especially excited about this year’s annual celebration, coinciding with TSU being the first HBCU to offer men’s ice hockey at the collegiate level. TSU hockey is set to commence its inaugural season this fall.

Dr. Samantha Morgan Curtis, dean of TSU’s College of Liberal Arts, said the selection of two of her professors speaks to the quality of the University’s art programs.

“We are grateful that the Predators recognize the brilliance of our faculty,” added Morgan-Curtis.

“The College of Liberal Arts is excited about the Predators partnership and all the possibilities it affords our students and faculty. This project specifically highlights the quality of our graphic design program. We are thankful to the hockey team for this opportunity.”

Morgan Curtis also shared that TSU will be the first HBCU to host the upcoming State of Black Design Conference in March, another testament to the program and faculty.

To learn more about the Predators Black History celebration and to purchase Professor’s Sales custom design T-shirt, click here.

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TSU finalizing fall commencement, graduates to include former NFL star Rodgers-Cromartie 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – This morning hundreds of Tennessee State University students participated in rehearsal in preparation for Saturday’s commencement ceremony. One of those graduates was former NFL 2-time Pro Bowler and AFC Champion Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. The TSU standout will receive a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from the College of Liberal Arts. Rodgers-Cromartie started his collegiate career as a cornerback for the TSU Tigers and was a first round draft pick of the Arizona Cardinals in 2008.

Rodgers-Cromartie joins the class of 2023 for TSU fall commencement Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 9 a.m. in the Gentry Center Complex. Nearly 700 students will walk the stage to receive their degrees during the ceremony. This year’s speaker is award-winning journalist and former CNN anchor Don Lemon. Lemon anchored the long-running CNN primetime program, Don Lemon Tonight as well as CNN This Morning.

Commencement will include 328 undergraduate students and 324 graduate students. TSU is hoping graduates will make it “TSU for Two” and consider pursuing a second degree, from the institution, after graduation. The School of Graduate Studies held “Donuts and Degrees” during commencement rehearsal to talk with interested students. The recruitment initiative could help students who are still undecided about life after graduation. 

University officials encourage graduates to arrive one hour before the ceremony due to parking. While masks are not required, this is flu season and everyone is asked to exercise caution.

TSU fall commencement will also be live streamed from the University’s YouTube channel at www.tnstate.edu/livestream 

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TSU Alumnus has film premiere on Disney+

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – For Tennessee State University alumnus Spencer Glover, it all started in an edit bay, in room 108 of the Performing Arts Center. It was the perfect campus space to be creative and bring his ideas to life. Now, Glover is reaping the benefits of his hard work, after pitching a 12-slide presentation to studio giant Disney that was adapted into a film.

From left to right: Van-Maurice Glover, Kariss Forte, Melissa Forte, Mercedes Glover, Stephanie Rakers on red carpet for Black Belts Premiere.

Titled “Black Belts,” the 20-minute movie premiered on Disney+ in September.  

“I was really excited and grateful for the opportunity,” Glover recalled the moment he received the call back after interviewing to direct the film.

“I was ready to dive in and get to work and was excited at the idea that on the other end of it, I would be a better and more confident director.”

The film explores the relationship between a Black father and son set against the backdrop of martial arts. Glover shared, beyond the Kung Fu and action, the film dives deeper into the conversation around masculinity.

“When people watch the film, I hope they see this moment between a Black father and son, being openly emotional with each other.”

Glover graduated from TSU with a degree in mass communications in 2012, and is also a former member of the Aristocrat of Bands.

Reflecting on his time at TSU, Glover emphasized, “TSU is so important to the foundation of my skills.”

He credited the university for providing an environment where he felt both safe and free to express himself creatively.

Spencer Glover in undergraduate school at TSU in the TV station during a musical showcase that he created called, ‘Next in Line’

“TSU was super vital to my life, career, and development as an artist.”

His former TSU instructors Joseph Richie, associate professor of Communications, and Melissa Forte, who was an assistant professor at the time, praised the filmmaker for his success.

Richie described Glover as one of the program’s pioneers, highlighting his drive and dedication.

“None of us are surprised that he’s doing very well now. He was extremely driven, active and took the program seriously. That’s why we’re here. To see students like Spencer’s success, this is the payoff for a professor.”

Forte noted Glover’s humility and diligence.

“Spencer is very humble and kind.  I think that served him very well at TSU,” Forte said.

The film Black Belts explores the relationship between a Black father and son set against the backdrop of martial arts. Beyond the Kung Fu and action, the film dives deeper into the conversation around masculinity.

“He was always in class going above and beyond to learn more and even taught himself how to do 3D animation and never stops learning.”

Glover’s advice for aspiring TSU students entering the film industry is to stay on course, and things will fall into place.

“You have to be dedicated to the craft and be resourceful,” he said. “You have to create on your own, make the connections on your own.” He emphasized that sticking to your own path and staying dedicated, would eventually connect the dots.

The Virginia native added that he always knew that showcasing his talent on a large-scale platform like Disney would elevate his art to unprecedented heights. He freelanced for Yamaha and Apple, following graduation, before moving to Los Angeles in 2020. Glover took on several independent projects before he and was accepted into Disney’s Launchpad Program for writers and directors from underrepresented backgrounds.

This gave Glover an opportunity to produce short films for Disney.

As a testament to his journey, Glover and his wife, Kariss, now own a production company called “Room 108,” named after the edit bay at TSU.

“I credit edit bay room 108 with being that space where we could get lost in our creativity and come out with something super dope. That space represents what we want to create for ourselves and other people coming into the industry.”

Glover also has paid it forward by coming back to the university as a guest speaker for the communications students.

Watch Glover’s film “Black Belts” on Disney+, presented by Launchpad.

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Billboard recognizes TSU’s Commercial Music program as one of the best in the world

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is now home to one of the top music business programs in the world. The October 7 issue of Billboard Magazine highlighted over 25 internationally acclaimed music business programs, including TSU, as one of the 2023 Top Music Business Schools.

TSU’s students are pictured with Tennessee native singer and actress CoCo Jones along with Willie “Prophet” Stiggers, co-founder and chair of the Black Music Action Coalition, and Def Jam Recording executives during a session of the music accelerator program held in May. (Photo courtesy 353 Media Group)

“This is a major milestone,” said Dr. Mark Crawford, who serves as coordinator of TSU’s commercial music program. “Not every HBCU has this program to begin with. This recognition puts us on the global stage.”

Dr. Crawford expressed his excitement for what he believes is a remarkable achievement and recognition that will open doors to new opportunities for students. This is in the form of internships and career opportunities.

Sophomore Honoria Hodges is already reaping the benefits of the program. Hodges is currently a TSU Meistersingers and said what she is learning from the program, in addition to her talent, will set her up to become an R&B/ pop artist.

“It is wonderful that we received this recognition,” Hodges said. “This will get all our names (students) out there to get what we want out of our careers. And my experience so far at TSU has been very enlightening.” 

Honoria Hodges

In May, TSU offered students the music business accelerator program, a 4-week course in partnership with the Black Music Action Coalition. Students got a chance to collaborate with industry giants such as Wasserman Music, Amazon Music, Nashville Music Equality, the RIAA, Live Nation, and more. The once-in-a-lifetime opportunity gave them access to internships and employment. Notable guest speakers included producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, BET and NAACP award-winning music artist CoCo Jones, rapper Waka Flocka, and others who provided valuable industry insights.

TSU alumnus Jonathan Boddie said it is unique opportunities like the accelerator program that sets the program a part. Boddie is a Nashville native and professional musician who graduated from the commercial music program in 2010.

Dr. Mark Crawford

“I think this is well deserved,” Boddie said in response to the recognition, especially noting that the university is in the heart of ‘Music City.’ “I want to raise awareness that we have one of the top programs, and we can also get people to invest into the school.”

As a professional musician, Boddie has had a residency overseas, and even lived in Korea for six months to pursue his musical career. Boddie shared that the TSU commercial program and Dr. Crawford have had the greatest impact on his career.

“Dr. Crawford has never stopped looking out for us. He is always going the extra mile to give you more opportunities and I cannot say that about any other institution I have been a part of,” Boddie said.

Jonathan Boddie performs with Blue Masala Band during a concert held at Red Caboose Park in Bellevue, TN.

“The professors really do care even beyond graduation and I appreciate that.”

TSU alumni of the commercial music program include Harry Fox Agency client solutions coordinator Dashawn Howard and two-time Grammy-nominated producer Dwane “Key Wane” Wier, II.

“I hope we will continue to build on this kind of momentum,” Crawford added. “Recognition by Billboard and other professional entities will lead to curiosity. This will create additional opportunities.”

TSU makes the list as one of the two HBCUs, alongside Howard University. The prestigious recognition from Billboard comes as the program prepares to celebrate 25 years of educating students.

Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, said the honor to the 25-year program is well earned, and well overdue. 

“I was ecstatic because I know how hard everyone works,” Morgan-Curtis said, referring to the department’s faculty, and especially chair Dr. Robert Elliot, and Dr. Crawford for ensuring the students have “access to real world applications.”

Commercial music alumni practicing for the upcoming ensemble event at TSU. From left to right, Jonathan Boddie on the guitar, drum player Jameel Aziz, and bass player Maurice Farmer.

“Our students are getting these paid internships that are allowing them to do not only what they are being trained in, but what they love,” she said.

To celebrate the anniversary, the University will host a Commercial Ensemble Showcase November 13-15 at the Cox Lewis Theater inside the Performing Arts Center. Showtime is 7 p.m. each night and is free and open to the public. Traditionally a two-night event, an extra night was added to mark this significant milestone, featuring an alumni commercial ensemble as well as a faculty ensemble.

As TSU’s commercial music program continues to shine on the global stage, Crawford, who has overseen the program since the inception, is confident that faculty will help to foster the next generation of performers, producers, songwriters, and industry leaders.

Check out Billboard’s latest issue recognizing TSU here.

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TSU music business program a pipeline for young Black music creatives

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Imagine a classroom where aspiring music creatives gather to discuss business strategies and receive firsthand experiences from top music industry insiders. This is the reality for students enrolled in Tennessee State University’s Music Business Accelerator Program (MBAP). Going beyond just an academic experience, the MBAP is paving the way for the next generation of young Black music creatives, while combating economic disparities within the music industry.

Rapper Waka Flocka Flame speaking with TSU Music Business Accelerator program students at East Iris Studios in Nashville. (Photo courtesy 353 Media Group)

The university partnered with the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) to address underserved markets and provide firsthand resources and representation for Black commercial music students like no other. The MBAP’s second cohort left TSU students with a glimpse of their future careers after being exposed to insight from powerhouse executives, talent agencies, and top music artists.

TSU student Joshua “LilCEOJosh” Akhidenor said he never imagined shaking hands with his favorite Grammy award-winning music producer of all time, Rodney Jerkins. “This class was perfect for my career as a music producer and artist because it deeply taught me the music industry and the importance of knowing the business,” Akhidenor, of Memphis, said.

TSU student, artist Emmanuel “Mille Manny” Strickland performing at Brooklyn Bowl in Nashville before Waka Flocka Flame. (Photo courtesy 353 Media Group)

While TSU student, artist Emmanuel “Mille Manny” Strickland had the opportunity of an opening performance for rapper Waka Flocka Flame at Brooklyn Bowl after winning an Music Business Accelerator class competition. The rapper told the students during class at East Iris Studios, that these opportunities are preparing them to step into the music industry. “Having this conversation is a peek into your potential future,” Waka Flocka Flame said.

TSU music business students spent the last four weeks with representatives from Tri-Star Entertainment Agency, Live Nation Entertainment, Rolling Loud, Wasserman Media Group, Def Jam Recordings, Amazon Music, Warner Bros., and more. TSU students had the opportunity to discuss marketing, record label deals, artists and repertoire, and financial literacy with music industry insiders.

TSU student D’rell Player, who aspires to become a producer and audio engineer, at East Iris recording studio. (Photo courtesy 353 Media Group)

Willie “Prophet” Stiggers, the co-founder and chair of the Black Music Action Coalition, said the TSU program has led students to employment and paid internships, and will continue to do so going forward. “We are really creating a pipeline for success in a tangible way,” Stiggers said. “Our goal is to create access and an opportunity for talent to be nurtured here (Nashville), stay, and grow a career here.”

Stiggers expressed how deliberate Nashville and Music Row have been in “isolating the Black creative community and the Black audience from this experience,” he said. “So, we were looking for ways to break down those barriers.”

D’rell Player, a TSU senior who is a commercial music major, said being in the studio with Waka Flocka Flame, felt like home. “This class has managed to put me in a work environment that I want to be in,” Player said. “It’s given me more lessons, experience, and exposure in my chosen career field than I ever could have imagined.”

Link Fisher III speaks with Amazon Music representatives during week three of the music business accelerator program. (Photo courtesy 353 Media Group)

TSU senior Link Fisher III couldn’t agree more. Fisher, of Memphis, noted that discussing financial literacy with representatives from Live Nation was the highlight of the course. “This opportunity has made everything I have learned applicable to real life,” Fisher said. “That was the first time we sat down with a spreadsheet to see where the dollars go.”

The last day of the class concluded at the National Museum of African American Music with an All-star panel that consisted of Stiggers, BMG music company executive Tim Reid, Producer and songwriter Rodney Jerkins, Rapper Yellopain, actresses and artists Serayah and Bre-Z, SiriusXM’s media personality Swaggysie, and artist Daisha McBride.

Left to right, TSU students Matthew Lester, Tai Lomax and Brandon Allen at the National Museum of African American Music for a closing reception panel for the music business program. (Photo courtesy 353 Media Group)

Actress and singer Serayah, widely known for her role on the musical drama TV series Empire, told the students to dream big and to keep going. “It’s important to push this program because it means so much,” Serayah said. “It can build us in unity, with our talent, we can really put the purpose together.”

The next generation of music creatives then received plaques from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) to close out their Maymester course.

TSU alumnus Brian Sexton, the Community Outreach Chair for Nashville Music Equality, said that in order to make significant contributions to the industry’s economic landscape, Black creatives must have these resources, access, and educational opportunities. “We are heavily investing in our young creatives, and they are getting the support they need at every level,” Sexton said.

Actress and singer Serayah, left, taking a photo with TSU student Logyn Rylander during the closing reception at the National Museum of African American Music. (Photo courtesy 353 Media Group)

“Our model in Nashville is the only model that puts students in a very high networking experience, high-level knowledge-based environment,” he said. “The access that takes literally a career to get to, these students had that access within one month.”

Music is deeply rooted in African American culture and has played a significant role in shaping music history. By offering classes like TSU’s Music Business Accelerator Program at HBCUs, the impact can be multifaceted and everlasting for young Black music artists and creatives.

For more information about the music business accelerator program, reach Dr. Crawford at [email protected].

About the Black Music Action Coalition

BMAC is an advocacy organization formed to address systemic racism within the music business. The Coalition advocates on behalf of Black artists, songwriters, producers, managers, agents, executives, lawyers, and other passionate industry professionals.