Jacksonville, AL – As originally reported by Brett Buckner of JSU’s Media Department. Bradley White’s journey back to the Jacksonville State University (JSU) Marching Southerners is a story of passion rediscovered and dreams reignited. At 40 years old, White has returned to the band he idolized as a high schooler, bringing a lifetime of lessons, discipline, and leadership to the iconic ensemble.
White first encountered the Marching Southerners as a teenager in 1996 while playing trombone for the Randolph County High School marching band. Captivated by their performance, he made a promise to himself: he would attend JSU and join their ranks.
By 2002, he was living that dream, marching with the Southerners until 2005. However, the rigors of college academics caught up with him. “I flunked out,” White admitted with a laugh. “I wasn’t doing what I was supposed to do … I didn’t know how to study.”
With his music career seemingly behind him, White entered the workforce, spending nine years in retail management and later enlisting in the Alabama Air National Guard in 2009. Along the way, he earned a bachelor’s degree in emergency management from JSU and a master’s degree in the same field from the American Military University.
Through these experiences, White gained invaluable skills in leadership and discipline. Yet, the trombone, once his passion, remained in storage for nearly two decades—until an old college roommate, Dale Westbrooks, convinced him to play again with the Cheaha Winds, a local ensemble.
“I told him, ‘Man, I sure do miss this,’” White recalled. Playing again awakened a deep-seated love for music that no longer felt like a distant memory. Encouraged by his boss to follow his true passion, White began practicing in earnest.
After reconnecting with Marching Southerners director Ken Bodiford and brushing up on his skills, White made the bold decision to return to the field. By early August, he was back at band camp, pursuing a fifth-year master’s degree in music education and adapting to the Marching Southerners’ style after years in the military.
“It was a re-learning curve,” White said of the transition. “Getting back into it took me forever because it had been nearly 20 years.” But his perseverance paid off, and White officially earned his place in the band.
Bodiford has seen firsthand the impact of White’s presence. “His discipline, dedication, and work ethic are evident in everything he does,” Bodiford said. “He exemplifies how passion and commitment can lead to excellence. His presence not only enhances our musical performances but also fosters a supportive and collaborative environment within the band.”
White has also become a mentor to younger band members, sharing wisdom gained through years of life experience. “I think I enjoy it more now than I did when I was younger,” he said.
From marching as a wide-eyed freshman to returning as a seasoned leader, Bradley White’s story is a testament to the enduring power of passion and second chances.
