Entertainment
As the clock ticks down to one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year, college football fans are gearing up for an electrifying showdown. The College Football Playoff National Championship, set to take place on January 20th at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, promises not only a thrilling contest between Notre Dame and Ohio State but also a spectacle of pregame festivities that will leave audiences in awe.
A Celebration of Sports, Culture, and History
Setting the Stage: Pregame Entertainment Unveiled
The atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz Stadium will be electric long before the kickoff whistle blows. Pre-game activities commence at 7:30 PM, with a lineup of performances that showcase local talent and pay homage to the city’s rich heritage. These events serve as a precursor to the main event, building anticipation and excitement among spectators.One of the highlights of the evening will be the rendition of the national anthem by Coco Jones, an acclaimed R&B artist known for her soulful hits like "ICU" and "Here We Go." Her powerful vocals will resonate through the stadium, setting the tone for what lies ahead. Additionally, Alexander Charlot, a 12th-grade student from Monroe, Georgia, will perform the anthem in American Sign Language (ASL). Charlot, who attends the Atlanta Area School for the Deaf, brings a unique and inclusive element to the celebration.Celebrating America's Beauty
The performance of "America the Beautiful" will add another layer of patriotism to the evening. Spelman College Glee Club, renowned for its century-old tradition as the oldest college choir of African American women, will lead the audience in this stirring rendition. Under the direction of Dr. Kevin Johnson, the Glee Club’s harmonies will fill the stadium with pride and unity.Joining them is Johrgia Peaches, a 14-year-old eighth-grader from Newnan, Georgia, who will perform "America the Beautiful" in ASL. Like Charlot, Peaches also attends the Atlanta Area School for the Deaf, ensuring that every voice is heard and celebrated. This dual performance underscores the importance of inclusivity and representation.Honoring Legacy and Heroism
Atlanta, the birthplace of the civil rights movement, provides a fitting backdrop for honoring historical figures. Dr. Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King Jr. and CEO of the King Center, will participate in the coin toss ceremony, symbolizing the intersection of sports and social progress. This moment serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.In addition to this tribute, the College Football Playoff will recognize retired Marine Cpl. Kyle Carpenter, a Medal of Honor recipient. Carpenter was awarded the nation’s highest military honor in 2014 for his courageous actions during a mission in Afghanistan in 2010. His bravery in shielding fellow Marine Cpl. Nicholas Eufrazio from a grenade blast exemplifies the values of sacrifice and service that define true heroism.Energizing the Crowd: Drumline Performance
To further ignite the spirit of the crowd, six drummers from Clark Atlanta University’s renowned drumline will join DR Mal-Ski on stage. Known for their precision and dynamic presence, the CAU drummers will bring an explosive energy to the pregame festivities. Their collaboration promises to be a memorable highlight, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of football and celebration.
