Timbaland lit up Salem High School’s gym with nostalgia and pride Friday morning as 1,700 students packed the bleachers to celebrate the Virginia Beach native’s return and the city’s decision to rename a street in his honour.
The Hip-Hop icon kicked off “Timbaland Way Weekend” with a pep rally that doubled as a tribute to his legacy. The four-time Grammy winner was greeted with cheers, flashing phone lights and a custom black and scarlet letterman jacket presented by Principal Carey Manugo. The event marked Timbaland’s first visit back to his alma mater since becoming one of the most influential producers in music.
At 10 A.M., students were allowed to break the school’s cellphone policy and light up the darkened gym with flashlights as the producer emerged to roaring applause.