#USA #Houston #PEPSI Band #HBCU Marching Band #Black Music Month

The PEPSI National Battle of the Bands Celebrates Black Music Month

As June unfolds, the PEPSI National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB) is once again in the spotlight, commemorating Black Music Month with a special re-airing of its documentary "Celebrating Champions of Culture." This film, which encapsulates a decade of excellence among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), takes viewers on a journey through the vibrant world of HBCU marching bands.

A Celebration of Culture and Legacy

The film showcases the rich traditions and outstanding performances that have defined HBCU marching bands, revealing how these ensembles are not only entertainers but also cultural powerhouses that have played a pivotal role in the fabric of Black musical heritage. Featuring live performances from the historic 10th-anniversary celebration held at Houston's NRG Stadium, "Celebrating Champions of Culture" serves as both a tribute and a testament to the enduring spirit of these bands.

Scheduled to air on select stations nationwide starting May 31, the documentary is set to transport audiences back to the electrifying performances witnessed during the 2024 NBOTB event, held in August last year. With captivating visuals and exclusive interviews, the film brings to life the energy, passion, and pride that characterize HBCU band culture.

HBCU Bands: More Than Just Music

"HBCU marching bands are more than halftime shows—they're living archives of a legacy of pride, power, and perseverance," explains Derek Webber, Executive Producer of the National Battle of the Bands. This sentiment is echoed throughout the documentary as it dives deeply into the creative processes, discipline, and artistry behind each performance, revealing the critical role these bands play in shaping Black musical expression across generations.

The documentary not only highlights the unique talents of the bands but also emphasizes their participation in major events such as the Super Bowl, presidential inaugurations, and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Bands featured in this film include the Marching Wildcats from Bethune-Cookman University, the Sonic Boom of the South from Jackson State University, and the Human Jukebox from Southern University, among others. Each band brings its own unique flair, contributing to a collective celebration of culture and legacy.

Looking Ahead: Building the Future of HBCU Music

Beyond celebrating their heritage, the National Battle of the Bands aims to empower future generations of musicians. The ongoing commitment to providing tools and support for student musicians is evident in NBOTB's efforts to nurture talent from the classroom to the national stage. With an emphasis on education, the organization strives to ensure that the rich traditions of HBCU marching bands continue to resonate for years to come.

"With this film, we celebrate not just their music, but their meaning—and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring their legacy lives on through the next generation of student leaders," adds Webber.

As the re-airing kicks off, audiences are invited to tune in to relive the exciting performances and inspiring stories that make up the legacy of HBCU marching bands. For a full schedule of air dates, participating stations, and access to exclusive content including the official trailer, visit nationalbattleofthebands.com.

Mark your calendars for August 23, 2025, when the next PEPSI National Battle of the Bands will take place at NRG Stadium in Houston. To secure tickets and learn more about the event, head to the official NBOTB website. Celebrating the culture, sound, and excellence of HBCUs is not just a month-long affair but an ongoing mission to uplift and honor the incredible contributions of these institutions to American music culture.