World-famous Temptations to perform with Eastern Michigan University’s “Pride of the Peninsula” Marching Band during halftime of Oct. 12 football game vs. Miami University (Ohio)

EMU Alum and Temptations member Jawan M. Jackson will return for this memorable performance

YPSILANTI, Mich., Aug. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — (EMUEagles.com) – Eastern Michigan University is thrilled to announce an unforgettable halftime show featuring the world-renowned vocal group, The Temptations, performing alongside the EMU Marching Band. This special event will occur during the EMU football game against Miami University Saturday, Oct. 12, at Rynearson Stadium. Adding to the excitement, EMU alum and Detroit native Jawan M. Jackson, who joined The Temptations in 2022, will return to his alma mater for this highly anticipated performance. The game time will be announced 12 days before kickoff.

“Hosting The Temptations in collaboration with students in the 130th Anniversary Season of the EMU Marching Band doubles down on the vision that guides us all at Eastern Michigan University: to provide student-centered, high-quality academic programs with significant community impact,” said J. Nick Smith, Associate Director of Bands and Director of Athletic Bands at Eastern. “This collaboration marks a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our marching band students that will create ripples through our Ypsilanti community to our “sister city,” Detroit. Detroit, of course, was where The Temptations and many other iconic Black artists began careers that would ultimately lead to re-shaping the music industry. We are thrilled to experience a piece of that history live on October 12 in Rynearson Stadium.”

Single-game tickets for the game and the unique halftime show are on sale now at EMUEagles.com/tickets or by calling the EMU Ticket Office at 734.487.3669. Tickets purchased in advance of gameday start at just $20. In addition, group tickets (15 or more individuals) start at just $8 per person and are also available.

A limited number of experience packages are available, including a pregame brunch with The Temptations. Interested corporations and individuals should contact Dr. Nick Smith directly for more information ([email protected] or 734.487.4143).

The Temptations, an iconic American vocal group from Detroit, have left a mark on music history with their groundbreaking contributions to R&B and soul music. Emerging in the 1960s and achieving fame with Motown Records, they are celebrated for their distinct harmonies, sophisticated choreography, and stylish attire. With a legacy of tens of millions of albums sold, The Temptations are among the most successful groups in popular music history.

The group’s collaboration with producer Norman Whitfield resulted in a series of hits defining the psychedelic soul genre, starting with “Cloud Nine” in October 1968. Over the decades, they have released four Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles and 14 R&B number-one singles, earning four Grammy Awards, including the first-ever Grammy for a Motown act. Recognizing their enduring influence, The Temptations were honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013 and inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989. Their classic songs “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me),” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” are enshrined among The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.

Entering its 130th season, the “Pride of the Peninsula” is comprised of a diverse group of graduate and undergraduate students from various academic majors across the university. Known for its spirit and pride, the band is dedicated to enriching the lives of its members and the broader community through exhilarating performances and a supportive, inclusive environment. Eastern is also celebrating its 175th anniversary with festivities throughout the academic year, featuring various events and an exclusive website showcasing the university’s journey.

Fans can also still grab season tickets for EMU’s 2024 home football schedule, which remain on sale for fans seeking the ultimate experience. These tickets offer perks such as VIP seating and parking privileges. With options to suit every budget and preference, there’s never been a better time to secure your spot and join the EMU community in cheering on the Eagles in 2024.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University’s Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University’s website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.

About Eastern Michigan University Athletics
Eastern Michigan University has been a member of the Mid-American Conference since 1971 and has been among the league’s most successful members. The Division I program boasts 158 MAC team championships, the most of any team in the league during that span. Eastern Michigan, which has had a representative at every summer Olympics since 1960, has won 15 team national championships and 55 individual national titles since 1932. For more information about Eastern Michigan Athletics, visit EMUEagles.com.

SOURCE Eastern Michigan University