LOS ANGELES — Alabama A&M alumnus and former Marching Maroon & White Drum Major Khristopher Alexander Purkson was in the band for Liv Warfield on a recent episode of “America’s Got Talent” and earned the coveted Golden Buzzer, propelling the group to the next round with a shower of golden confetti and roaring applause.
“‘America’s Got Talent’ came to me through a phone call,” Purkson said. “I didn’t even know it was AGT until I got there. One of the musicians already hired for the gig knew that I could quickly pick up the music and dance moves.
“We only rehearsed for about four hours. The next day, we were on the stage giving the judges that funk.”
The Birmingham native earned his biology degree and was a member of the Marching Maroon & White from 2013-17. His journey from a dedicated student to a rising star is nothing short of inspiring.
“Everything I know musically came from me listening to people who were better than me,” Purkson said. “I play by ear, meaning if I can hear it, I can play it with no sheet music in front of me. Mix that with some soul plus a tiny bit of musical theory, and that’s where I am today.”
As a member of the MMW, Purkson advanced to Trombone Section Leader, then Drum Major, and finally Head Drum Major. Now living in Los Angeles, he continues to pursue his passions, playing the trombone, dancing, and acting.
“You might catch me in some movies and TV shows just walking down the street,” Purkson said. “I’m in the background acting right now until I land that big audition.”
Winning the Golden Buzzer on one of television’s biggest stages could be his big break.
NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” showcases undiscovered talent of all ages – singers, dancers, magicians, comics, musicians, and more – who perform before a panel of judges that decide which contestants move on in the competition each week.
With the guidance of the show’s host, the audience learns the backstories of these amazing people as they strive to make it to the finale, where one talented performer wins a life-changing $1 million prize and the title of America’s “World Champion.”
“The band was a huge success,” said Purkson. “We got the golden buzzer from Simon himself! The next step is waiting for the phone call to go learn the new song.
“We want to win this thing, so I’m excited to see what’s next for us.”
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