By Shirley Hawkins
Contributing Writer
COMPTON — Whenever the Sophisticated Sounds and Steppers Drill Team and Drum Squad march down the street, whistles, loud clapping and shouts of encouragement never fail to greet them.
The drill team, formed in 2004 by daycare owner Patricia Baker, has members ranging in age from 5 to 30.
“Baker was my mother and she truly loved helping the youth,” said Brandon Glasco, chief executive officer of the Steppers. “She decided to establish the group 20 years ago in order to try to help guide and mentor young people.”
The group has been lauded for its precision, dance moves and pizazz, and has captured numerous trophies in team competitions across the country. The 50 members march in colorful burgundy and white costumes and has no plans of slowing down.
“The Sensational Sounds and Steppers provides a positive outlet where young people can express themselves without judgment,” Glasco said. “It provides a release from their regular routine of home and school.”
The group recently appeared on “The Jennifer Hudson Show” where they marched in formation while demonstrating their drill team techniques that captivated the crowd.
Leading the Steppers on the show was 5year-old Kenzley Funchess, who is the team captain.
The group has five divisions; the Pee Wees, for youths 10 years old and younger; the Juniors, who range in age from 11 to 13; the Seniors, comprised of participants 14 to 19; the Adults, 20 and up; and the Senior Drum Squad, who range in age from 14 and up.
“The Steppers help to build their self esteem and self confidence and teaches them leadership and developmental skills,” Glasco said. “When it comes to participating in competitions, it gives them a great sense of pride.”
Member Angel Turner, 16, who attends Compton Early College High School, heard about the Steppers from her sister.
“I joined in 2017,” she said. “I learned to have good communication skills, the value of teamwork and how to work well with others.”
Like the rest of the group, Turner is proud that the Steppers know what it takes when it comes to winning competitions.
“We’ve won too many trophies to count,” she said.
She added that she has formed many friendships and a special bond with the group.
“We are like a family,” she said.
The group also has given her confidence to pursue her future goals.
“I want to be a criminal justice lawyer,” she said.
Tasia Coleman, 17, who attends Compton High School, has been a member of the group for nine years.
“My mom and my aunties were part of the group when they were younger,” she said. “They told me about it and I joined in 2016.
“I learned how to be more communicative and I learned leadership skills and how to help others. If someone in the group cannot do a step or a beat, I will help them to learn the step.”
The group has also given her confidence to pursue her goals.
“I want to go into the pediatric field and become a pediatric surgeon or physician’s assistant,” she said.
Despite winning many trophies, Glasco said the group subsists entirely on donations.
“We fundraise regularly and each month the parents pay $10 to cover any expenses, like drum accessories or the girls’ costumes.
Glasco said “The Jennifer Hudson Show” “was an overwhelming experience and our kids loved it.
“You need patience, drive, know how to take and give directions and you must have a competitive spirit,” he said. “You can’t be shy.”
The Sophisticated Sounds and Steppers Drill Team and Drum Squad can be contacted at s.sounds04@yahoo.com.
Shirley Hawkins is a freelance reporter for Wave Newspapers. She can be reached at metropressnews@gmail.com.
