- This event has passed.
2024 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands
August 25 @ 3:30 pm - 9:00 pm
The countdown to the 2024 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands is ON! 
Get ready to witness the ultimate HBCU band showdown with performances by Lecrae, Boosie Badazz, and The Walls Group!
Get ready to witness the ultimate HBCU band showdown with performances by Lecrae, Boosie Badazz, and The Walls Group!This year’s event, themed “Celebrating Champions of Culture,” not only honors the legacy of HBCU marching bands but also champions their enduring influence on music and culture. The celebrations are scheduled to begin in Houston on Friday, August 23, and will conclude on Sunday, August 25, at NRG Stadium with the highly anticipated band showcase. Click here to see some photos from last year’s event.
Featuring bands:
East Side: Bethune-Cookman University Marching Wildcats Prairie View A&M University Marching Storm Texas Southern University Ocean of Soul Tuskegee University Marching Crimson Pipers
West Side: Jackson State University Sonic Boom of the South Miles College Purple Marching Machine Southern University Human Jukebox Tennessee State University Aristocrat of Bands
- The Emerging Experience Entrepreneur Conference presented by JP Morgan Chase, set for Friday, August 23, at The Deluxe Theatre, will provide a platform for entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and grow.
- Back on the Yard Kickoff & Stroll Off Competition will electrify the atmosphere at Texas Southern University on the same day, Friday, August 23.
- Feeding The Homeless, an NBOTB Cares Initiative, will take place on Saturday, August 24. This event demonstrates its commitment to community support and engagement, aligning with our mission to positively impact every community we touch.
- Fan Fest Experience at NRG Center on Sunday, August 25, will include the HBCU College Fair, Career Fair, and The Pepsi Experience—offering an elevated platform with vendors, music, performances, and more, ensuring an enriched experience for all attendees.
This year’s NBOTB event will feature an exciting addition – a Hall of Fame program designed to honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the success and legacy of HBCU marching bands. This recognition highlights the significant role these individuals have played in the development of HBCU marching band culture. The Hall of Fame program will be introduced during August’s event and will induct its inaugural members.
