There was something quietly magical about that afternoon at the LA Times Festival of Books 2026. The crowd ebbed and flowed like a tide of curious readers, but for a moment, everything seemed to center around one table—where an author sat, pen in hand, meeting each reader with a warm smile and a story to share. What began as a simple signing turned into a heartfelt exchange of gratitude, laughter, and connection, as copies of their book found new homes and eager hands. Each signature carried more than just ink; it held a memory, a fleeting but meaningful encounter between storyteller and reader.
Looking back, the moment felt like a snapshot preserved in time—the hum of conversations, the rustle of pages, and the unmistakable joy of seeing a story resonate with so many. It wasn’t just a successful book signing; it was a celebration of words, of journeys, and of the quiet power books have to bring people together. Even now, it lingers like a fond memory—one that both the author and their readers will carry long after the festival tents have come down.
One standout moment came from Milton Lawrence Cox II, who held a successful book signing on April 19, 2026, from 1:00PM-2:00PM. Readers eagerly gathered to meet him, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere filled with genuine enthusiasm and curiosity about his work, “Give the Drummer Some: Drum Line Origins in School-Daze Confunktory.”
Milton Lawrence Cox II graduated “Thank-You-Laude” with a Bachelor of Science degree from the School of Business at Virginia State University in Petersburg, VA. At VSU, he was impressed and taught that playing music in a college level marching band is performing on the professional level.
During his junior year at Big State (VSU) he also sought out and volunteered for a one semester cooperative education internship as a computer programmer trainee at Aetna Life and Casualty Insurance Company in Hartford, CT, which upon successful completion was extended for a second semester.
Keeping his love for percussion playing current, he has performed in and around eastern Virginia as a drummer-percussionist with the Virginia State University Alumni Theatre Ensemble’s production of For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf.
He is also prone to offer occasional sit-in rudimental combination strokes on his church’s drum set as his choir’s accompaniment. The former U. S. Navy Lieutenant is a behavioral health provider and resides in Hampton Roads, VA.
Step into the rhythm and raw energy of Give the Drummer Some: Drum Line Origins in School-Daze Confunktory, a vibrant journey back to the 1970s where passion, culture, and music collide. Through the eyes of Milton Lawrence Cox II, this book brings to life the pulse of Virginia State University’s legendary “Marching 110,” capturing how a group of determined drummers redefined marching band tradition by blending deep African roots with the electrifying sounds of their era. It’s more than history—it’s a front-row seat to the beats, brotherhood, and bold creativity that turned a college drumline into an unforgettable movement.
