The Honda Battle of the Bands, an annual event that celebrates the musical talents of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), is back for its 20th anniversary. The event will showcase eight HBCU marching bands from across the country, who will perform in front of a live audience at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on January 29, 2023.
The Honda Battle of the Bands was first launched in 2003 as a way to celebrate the unique marching band traditions of HBCUs and provide a platform for these talented musicians to showcase their skills. Over the years, the event has become a beloved institution in the HBCU community, drawing thousands of fans from across the country.
This year’s event will feature performances from some of the most talented marching bands in the country, including the Marching 100 from Florida A&M University, the Sonic Boom of the South from Jackson State University, and the Blue and Gold Marching Machine from North Carolina A&T State University.
In addition to the exciting performances, the event will also feature a Battle of the Bands Showcase, where each band will have the opportunity to show off their unique style and musical abilities in a head-to-head competition. The winner of the showcase will receive a cash prize and the opportunity to perform at the Honda Celebration of Music, an annual event that brings together HBCU marching bands from across the country.
“We are thrilled to be back for our 20th anniversary and to celebrate the rich musical traditions of HBCUs,” said Alexandra Warnier, Assistant Vice President of Honda North America.
Tickets for the event are available now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster. Fans who are unable to attend in person can also watch the event live on the Honda Battle of the Bands website.
The Honda Battle of the Bands is not just a celebration of music; it is also a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of HBCUs and the important role they play in American history. By showcasing the talent and dedication of HBCU marching bands, the event honors the legacy of these important institutions and inspires a new generation of young musicians to carry on this proud tradition.