Pepsi National Battle of the Bands to Celebrate HBCU Culture through National Broadcasting

The Best of the Battles: A Celebration of HBCU Band Culture

The Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB) is set to honor the cultural legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with its latest airing, The Best of the Battles. This film, the sixth in its series, will showcase some of the most iconic moments from the NBOTB, highlighting the excellence and dedication of HBCU marching bands. It will be broadcast from January 31 to March 1, 2026, in celebration of Black History Month.

The National Battle of the Bands is a monumental platform celebrating the vibrant sound and discipline characteristic of HBCU band culture. Over its 15-year journey, this incredible event has showcased more than 30 marching bands, providing a glimpse into their evolution and the profound impact they’ve had on cultural expression in America. As each performance tells a story, The Best of the Battles aims to capture the essence of these bands and the unforgettable moments they've created throughout the years.

Narrated by Milan Davis, an esteemed alumna of Southern University and a member of the Famous Dancing Dolls, the film is enriched with exclusive interviews and a retrospective look at pivotal performances that have made a lasting mark on the cultural landscape. From the energetic pages of Charlotte's performances to the grand stage in Houston, these marching bands have continuously broadened their influence, culminating in the 2026 showcase in The Palm Beaches.

The film includes segments featuring notable bands like Bethune-Cookman University's Marching Wildcats, Florida Memorial University's The ROAR, Florida A&M University's Marching