In October of last year, Young Thug and 300 Entertainment’s CEO Kevin Liles spearheaded something called “Hot Battle of The Bands Challenge,” where HBCU bands had to record themselves playing Thug’s song “Hot.”
The video then had to be uploaded to TikTok, as well as other sites like Instagram, Twitter and YouTube. Whichever clip received the most traction would be the winner, and that school would receive a $25,000 donation to their band program or music department.
It turns out that Florida A&M University, located in Tallahassee, won the contest, and Liles personally told its Marching 100 band members about the news.
The students received the surprise during rehearsals, right before they were heading to a battle of the bands competition in Atlanta this weekend. Afterward, everyone cheered and celebrated.
“I wanted to make a special stop here and tell you guys, out of the 20 schools — we had high schools and everything — congratulations, you get the $25,000,” said Liles.
Thug also congratulated the Marching 100 but did so on video because he couldn’t be in Tallahassee.
“You guys won $25,000,” he stated. “That’s very good. That’s very, very, very great. I’m sorry I couldn’t be there. But I want you guys to stay good in school. Keep making good grades.”
Florida A&M University President Dr. Larry Robinson spoke about winning the contest as well and said it was the culmination of a lot of talented people working together.
“This is a testament to the outstanding students that we have here and the band, the Marching 100, as well as the guidance they’re getting from Dr. Chipman and his staff.”
People eventually took to social media and congratulated the school. And others who said they attended Florida A&M expressed pride.
“That’s my alma mater, my frat and my fam SHOWING OUT 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾😍😍🐍🐍🐍🐍,” someone wrote on Instagram.
“Well deserved👏👏,” another person stated.
“I love my HBCU🐍,” wrote someone else.
