It’s almost time for the Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB), and you won’t want to miss it! This year’s event marks the 18th year of the premier showcase for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) marching bands and dance teams. And for the first time ever, the event will be held at an HBCU campus – Alabama State University in Montgomery, Alabama.
On February 18th 2023, you’ll see six HBCU marching bands bring music and excitement to Montgomery. These bands have all earned their spot via a ballot procedure that comprised HBOB fans, HBCU band directors and students, and Honda reps. The bands include:
Morgan State University Magnificent Marching Machine – making their first appearance at HBOB
Alabama State University Mighty Marching Hornets – making their 7th appearance
Langston University Marching Pride – making their 4th appearance
Savannah State University Powerhouse of the South – making their 7th appearance
Texas Southern University Ocean of Soul – making their 3rd appearance
Virginia State University Trojan Explosion – making their 10th appearance
Not only will these bands get to show off their skills on stage, but they’ll also receive an institutional grant from Honda to support their music education programs and an all-expenses-paid trip to the Invitational Showcase.
Celebrity hosts Rickey Smiley and Loni Love will be on hand to keep the energy high and the entertainment flowing. Smiley, an Alabama State University alum, and Love, a Prairie View A&M University alumna, are both well-known comedians and television hosts.
Don’t miss out on this exciting event celebrating Black culture and musical excellence. Tickets are on sale now at www.hondabattleofthebands.com. See you at the Honda Battle of the Bands in February!
