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BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First<\/a>) \u2014 The Bayou Classic is back this weekend, and kicking things off is Louisiana\u2019s own Justin Garner, who will take center field in the Caesars Superdome to perform the national anthem. Garner, an HBCU graduate and recording artist, says the moment feels like coming home.<\/p>\n Garner grew up singing in the Baptist church, performing a cappella during early-morning sunrise services, an experience he credits with preparing him for this career milestone.<\/p>\n \u201cI grew up singing in the Baptist Church\u2026 sunrise service at 7:30 a.m. We didn\u2019t have a keyboard player or drums, so you had to be able to sing a cappella at any moment. I feel like that prepared me for this moment,\u201d he told Louisiana First News.<\/p>\n As he gears up for the big performance, Garner says self-care and mental preparation are front and center.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is the first time I get to perform for my alma mater. I\u2019m an HBCU grad, so this is a full-circle moment to come back home.\u201d<\/p>\n Garner vividly remembers being a child inside the Superdome, mesmerized by the Human Jukebox, the bright lights, and the roaring crowds. On Saturday, he\u2019ll step onto that same field, this time as the featured performer.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m looking forward to walking out there and seeing all my people\u2026 that HBCU love. It\u2019s going to be incredible.\u201d<\/p>\n This performance is especially meaningful, as Garner is dedicating it to his late grandmother, Gloria Washington.<\/p>\n \u201cShe prayed for this moment for me. I want this performance to be in remembrance of her.\u201d<\/p>\n With nearly two decades in the music industry, Garner says performing at the Bayou Classic represents home, the 225, and he hopes young artists watching feel inspired.<\/p>\n \u201cNever give up. Bet on yourself. Nobody can ever do it like you.\u201d<\/p>\n Garner also shared that his dreams don\u2019t stop here. He\u2019s aiming for a Grammy and hopes to one day sing at the Super Bowl. But first, he\u2019ll make his mark at the Bayou Classic, honoring his community, his roots, and the legacy that shaped him.<\/p>\n You can catch Justin Garner\u2019s performance at the start of the Bayou Classic this Saturday in the Superdome. Be sure to check out his new single, \u201cHot Light.\u201d<\/p>\n