![Kirk Franklin Leads the Celebration at the 2024 HBCU Swingman Classic](https://pathmegazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/kirk-franklin-650x415.png)
Twenty-time Grammy-winning artist, producer, songwriter and music icon Kirk Franklin is headlining the entertainment and ceremonial celebrations of the 2024 “HBCU Swingman Classic presented by T-Mobile & powered by the MLB-MLBPA Youth Development Foundation”.
Franklin and his gospel choir will perform both the U.S. National Anthem and “Lift Every Voice and Sing” prior to the All-Star showcase of Division-I baseball athletes from Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs).
Proceeds from the sale of each ticket will benefit the MLB-MLBPA Youth Development Foundation (YDF), a joint initiative by MLB and MLBPA to support efforts that focus on improving the caliber, effectiveness and availability of amateur baseball and softball programs across the United States and internationally.
- Key Highlights of the Pre-, In-Game and Post-Game Elements Include:
- Kirk Franklin – Franklin and his choir will perform both the U.S. National Anthem and “Life Every Voice and Sing” prior to the game.
- National Pan-Hellenic “Divine Nine” Ring of Honor & Unity Step – During pregame ceremonies, 10 representatives from each of the “Divine Nine” Black Greek-letter organizations will surround the infield. Additionally, three representatives will perform on each dugout with a step routine that will feature individual customized performances, to be followed by a joint performance as a sign of unity and strength among the organizations.
- “Battle of the Bands” – HBCU culture will be present throughout the ballpark during the pregame, in-game and postgame with “Battle of the Bands” performances by Texas Southern’s “Ocean of Soul” and the Prairie View A&M’s “Marching Storm.”
- Opal Lee & “PLAY BALL!” – Dr. Opal Lee, the “Grandmother of Juneteenth” will announce “Play Ball!” prior to the start of the game.
- General Game Presentation:
- In-ballpark DJ – DJ Blast – Divine Nine Fraternity Member, Dallas Native & 2023 HBCU Swingman DJ – will once again perform a set while gates are open until the pregame ceremonies begin. Additionally, DJ Blast will be featured in-game playing music reminiscent of The Divine Nine.
- PA Announcer – Pinch-hitting for regular Rangers PA announcer Chuck Morgan is Marque Denmon, who is the SWAC Baseball Public Address Announcer.
- Pregame In-ballpark Host – Chris Arnold – Dallas Mavericks Host & Emcee, Divine Nine Fraternity Member, and Texas Black Sports Hall of Famer – will serve as the pregame host within the ballpark.