VCU students’ “Black Excellence” video goes viral

A hashtag, catchy lyricism and sophisticated business attire proliferated on social media, giving three VCU student some momentary fame.

Freshmen Johnathan Brooks and twin brothers Terrence and Terry Everett have made headlines in recent weeks with a series of videos titled “#BlackExcellence at VCU,” which have received more than 21 million views.

Inspired by the “Geeked Up Challenge,” a series of videos featuring students from Central Michigan University, freestyling about violence, drugs and sex, the trio from VCU decided to create their own version with a twist.

Instead of rapping about these subjects, they decided to do the opposite and rap about more positive themes like their ambitions, career goals and black nobility under the umbrella term of “Black Excellence.”

Brooks and the Everett brothers met during their orientation at VCU and have been friends ever since. They said their bond grew stronger when the brothers found out Brooks lived on the same floor in their Cabaniss dorm, and they discovered they’re all studying medical-related fields–the twins are Biology majors and Brooks studies Exercise Science.

“I watched the Ben Carson movie ‘Gifted Hands’ which inspired me,” Terrence Everett said. “He came from the same or a similar background as me. When I was younger, I had a bit of an anger issue. With time, I was able to overcome that. Watching that movie really motivated me to do the same as him.”

In an era where glamorizing negative themes and subject matters is ubiquitous, the boys said their video was meant to be a breath of fresh air.

“We were chilling in the dorm,” Terrence Everett said. “Terry put on a beat and we just started rapping. And I was like ‘Man let’s just make a video.’ Then it actually went way better than we expected. It was crazy.”

Moreover, the image of three young black men in college with aspirations to become doctors proved to be quite influential, with widespread support on social media.

The video, which has created its own following, became an instant success and has garnered a widespread appreciation for the young men.

“We saw how many people we motivated. We saw all the kids that were inspired that want to go into the same discipline field that we’re going into. It’s inspired us to do more videos,” Terrence Everett said.

Terry Everett said the video has also impacted their social lives. In recent weeks, multiple fraternities and organizations have asked them to join and have invited them to parties.

“School is first. It has been a little overwhelming these past two to three weeks with everyone coming up to us and doing interviews. It’s been hectic,” Brooks added.

The friends have also received feedback from inspired followers in countries like New Australia and New Zealand and stars, including veteran comedian Donnell Rawlings who sent sent Brooks a direct message of his appreciation for the video.

Rawlings also connected the boys to legendary radio host Sway Calloway. Calloway, who’s interviewed everyone from President Obama to rapper Jay Z, reached out to the group and scheduled an interview in the near future.

Terry Everett says the young men have also been asked to promote local Richmond businesses and have been sent clothes and business attire such as bowties, neckties and flower pins to cross promote brands.

“It’s not about our faces transcending into something greater where we get paid for it, it’s about the movement still being relevant in today’s culture,” Terrence Everett said.

In an addition to their academic reaches, the crew also has plans to do more in the future with their brand. The group has plans to expand and make larger productions, which include an actual song produced by a local Richmond producer.

The group has also started working on merchandise to wear on campus to better promote the “Black Excellence” movement.

Lastly, after watching remakes of the video done by children, they also look to visit local schools with hopes of mentoring students of all races, gender and age. With their influence, they sure look to continue to make a difference.

“Be greater than yesterday. Keep pushing for something that’s positive for the community and for everyone to have self-happiness. That’s the main goal,” Terrence Everett said.

Staff Writer, Muktaru Jalloh

Muktaru is a senior double majoring in English and political science with a minor in media studies. Topic areas Muktaru enjoys covering include music, sports, pop culture and politics. // Twitter | Facebook

jallohmm@commonwealthtimes.org