47. THUNDER SOUL

funk.  jazz.  show band.  jazz band.  early 70's.  kashmere high school in houston, tx.  "prof" conrad johnson wrote the music, instructed the students, and led them this all-black band to national championships during a time when they were the ONLY such group. the band was essentially unbeatable.  the students toured europe and japan and released albums.  it was a magical time.  many noted that they were as good as any professional music group.  the students come back together for a tribute concert to the now 92yo band leader; the man who not only taught them the music, but guided them in life, teaching discipline, respect, and self-worth and pride in themselves.  the spirit and the music is amazing; there are lots of clips from the past, full of afros, pleated shirts and bell bottoms.  many of the past band members haven't even held their instrument since they graduated high school, but prof taught them so well, they are able to pick up where they left off and grow more successful with each day of rehearsal, culminating in the final concert.  this man influenced his students in the most profound way.  their music, their choreography, their deep respect--all comes directly from this talented man.  as other white band leaders from back in the day noted: their students played the music; prof's students lived, loved and felt the music--from their soul; their thunder soul!  there is now a memorial park for prof on the grounds of kashmere high school; the kashmere alumni stage band is available for gigs; the recordings have been re-released and are available for purchase.  what a difference one teacher can make in the lives of so many students!