VSU Trojan Explosion Goes Hollywood With Amazon Prime Video’s Muhammad Ali Series
VSU student musicians record music for the promotional trailer for the series executive produced by Jay-Z, Michael B. Jordan, and Lonnie Ali.
Virginia State University, Va. — November 5, 2026 — Virginia State University’s nationally recognized Trojan Explosion Marching Band is making its mark in the entertainment industry. The band recorded music for the official promotional trailer for The Greatest, Amazon Prime Video’s new eight-part biographical drama series chronicling the extraordinary life of Muhammad Ali.
Under the direction of Dr. Taylor Whitehead, the Trojan Explosion collaborated with California-based composer Mic Ferrante, who composed the music for the promotional trailer and traveled to VSU to work directly with student musicians. The opportunity placed VSU students at the center of a major entertainment production, showcasing the distinctive sound and musical excellence of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
Ferrante was connected to VSU through Kieran Casey, a Richmond, Virginia, native and Los Angeles-based film composer and ethnomusicologist. VSU’s Department of Music handled the professional audio recording, led by department chair Dr. Samuel Rowley; Dustin Painter, assistant professor of music production and technology; and students studying audio recording and production. Their expertise delivered a professional recording while providing students with industry experience.
“I am proud of the students of the Virginia State University Trojan Explosion,” said Dr. Taylor Whitehead, VSU band director. “Opportunities like this are a reflection of their hard work, talent, dedication, and commitment to excellence.”
The Greatest features an impressive team of executive producers, including Michael B. Jordan, Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, and Ali’s widow, Lonnie Ali.
For the Trojan Explosion, the collaboration represents another significant milestone in the band’s growing national presence. Known for its unique musical arrangements, dynamic percussion, advanced drill designs, and electrifying performances, the band has earned national recognition through appearances at the ESPN Band of the Year National Championship, NBC’s Today show, the White House, and other major events. With more than 200 members, the Trojan Explosion has also become the largest marching band in VSU history and in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA).
Beyond the national exposure, the recording provided students with valuable professional experience, demonstrating how the musical talent developed at Virginia State University can translate into opportunities within the television, film, and entertainment industries.
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