Phillips to Make Debut as AAMU Diva in Front of Hometown Crowd

When incoming freshman Londyn Phillips arrived at Alabama A&M University from Houston, Texas, she knew her first semester would be memorable. What she didn’t expect was that within weeks of stepping on campus, she’d be flying back home – this time in sequins, not sneakers – as a member of the Dancin’ Divas, performing with the Alabama A&M University Marching Maroon & White Band at the 2025 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands.

The event, celebrating the showmanship and cultural legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), will be held Saturday, August 23, at NRG Stadium in Houston. This marks AAMU’s third appearance, following performances in 2015 and 2022.

Phillips’ path to becoming a Diva was swift. In March 2025, she attended the inaugural HBCU Dance Combine at the HBCU Auxiliary Dance Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. After a weekend of intensive workshops and choreography, she auditioned alongside more than 100 dancers. Only 14 were invited to join the elite squad – Phillips among them.

“Ever since I took my very first steps, I knew I was destined to dance,” Phillips said. “Being accepted into this program feels like everything I’ve ever dreamed of is finally unfolding. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and electrified by the possibilities ahead.”

Dancing is nothing new for Phillips. She began with ballet at age 3 and has spent the past 15 years mastering multiple genres – jazz, hip hop, lyrical, contemporary, and ballet – through school teams and competitive studios. Her career has already taken her to some of the world’s most celebrated stages and events, including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, a prime-time performance at a Chicago Sky basketball game, the Super Bowl Celebrity Basketball Game at Morehouse College, a seven-day dance tour in Waikiki, Hawaii, the Universal Studios Black Friday performance in Orlando, Florida, and a guest appearance at the RIU resort in Cabo, Mexico.

Even with this impressive background, Phillips said training as a Diva is another level of commitment. “We’re athletes,” she explained. “During band camp, we rehearse 15 hours a day for three weeks straight. Once school starts, it’s four to five hours a day, Monday through Friday.”

Phillips says she chose AAMU for its environment, campus atmosphere, and opportunities in both academics and the arts. A criminal psychology major, Phillips hopes to excel in the classroom while also building her dance career, with a long-term goal of becoming a criminal psychologist and performing with a major artist after college.

Returning to Houston for the Pepsi Battle of the Bands will be a full-circle moment. “I’m excited to showcase my skills, see my friends and family, and share this experience with the people who’ve supported me from the beginning,” Phillips said. “This will be the first time my family sees me perform as a Diva – it’s going to be unforgettable.”

Chrishana Granger, Director of the Dancin’ Divas for the past 15 years, sees Phillips’ debut as the start of something special.

“From the moment Londyn stepped into auditions, her passion radiated through every movement,” said Granger. “Her undeniable talent, matched with an unwavering dedication to her craft, made her an instant standout. As head coach, I seek dancers who not only move with precision but lead with heart – and Londyn embodies that standard. She is a powerful addition to our program, and I’m proud to welcome her to the legacy of excellence at Alabama A&M.”

For tickets and event details, visit . www.nationalbattleofthebands.com.