Aleem "The Dream" takes his broomstick practice to VSU's field

The Root's profile follows a ten-year-old drum major in training from homemade percussion to a homecoming performance.

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The Root Story of October 17, 2026Trari Newsroom

Why this story? The video is running at 27,332 views a day, 16 times its usual pace (1,667).

10 Year Old, Aleem "The Dream" is Turning Music into Purpose | The Root

Aleem Saunders started with water buckets to drum on and a broomstick to stand in for a drum major's baton. In The Root's interview, that homemade rehearsal has a very different backdrop: footage of him marching with Virginia State University's band at homecoming.

The Richmond native, known as Aleem "The Dream," describes getting his start with Highland Springs High School's band. His mother then surprised him with the opportunity to march alongside VSU's musicians during their homecoming matchup against Livingstone College. The feature shows him marching, dancing and conducting, and identifies him as an honorary member of the university's band.

Published three days ago, the profile has drawn about 27,000 views over the past day, roughly sixteen times its usual daily pace. Most of its viewing has arrived after a much quieter first day.

But Aleem's own ambitions are more grounded than a big entrance on the football field. Asked about his ultimate goal, he says: "My goal is to get good grades in school and get a scholarship."

He also has a ready answer about what keeps him practicing: marching, drills and drum major moves. The broomstick was a beginning, not the whole routine.

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What viewers say

VSU making dreams come true! Hail State!
@vernicetaylor1403See it on YouTube
Follow your dreams.! You will do well ❤
@jennifermcghee9417See it on YouTube
What an awesome young man you are!! Your talents and hard work will continue to move you forward—have fun and continued BLESSINGS to you!! 🧡
@jgray5034See it on YouTube

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