The 2023 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB) is back for another exciting year! Today event organizers announced that this year’s event will take place on Saturday, August 26, at NRG Stadium and will kick off at 6:00 p.m. CST. The event celebrates the rich culture of HBCU marching bands while focusing on generating scholarship dollars for participating HBCU bands and supporting the community through various initiatives.
Derek Webber, National Battle of the Bands Creator and CEO, of Webber Marketing, states, “We are committed to making a long-term difference in the communities we serve by collaborating with dynamic partners such as Pepsi, JP Morgan Chase, Cricket, and others on initiatives such as entrepreneur empowerment, job creation, feeding the homeless, youth leadership development, and education through our official events, which are FREE and open to the public.”
The NBOTB is the largest HBCU marching band event and the fourth largest HBCU African American event in the country. Over 2,200 members from the nation’s top marching bands will kick off their Fall marching band season while showcasing their unique style, talent, and sound. The 2023 marching band lineup includes:
Langston University, “Marching Pride” Band
Mississippi Valley State University, Mean Green Marching Machine
Norfolk State University, The Spartan “Legion” Marching Band
Southern University, Human Jukebox
Tennessee State University, Aristocrat of Bands
Texas Southern University, “Ocean of Soul” Marching Band
Virginia State University, Trojan Marching Explosion
“Our community is once again excited to welcome the nation’s best marching bands to Houston,” said Harris County – Houston Sports Authority Vice President Chris Massey. “The NBOTB continues to support our youth through arts and entertainment, educational opportunities, and diversity programming. We are looking forward to continuing to celebrate HBCU culture within the city and making this event bigger and better each year.”
The NBOTB collaboration with HCHSA furthers the event’s goal of increasing exposure for HBCUs and their marching bands. It also adds to the growth of scholarships and raises awareness of higher learning in music, arts, and entertainment.
Early bird tickets for the National Battle of the Bands are now available for purchase with a $5 discount, with prices starting at $20. This offer is available until Friday, May 26th, or while supplies last. Following the conclusion of the early bird sales period, regular ticket sales will commence on Tuesday, May 30, with prices starting at $25. Tickets can be purchased at www.nationalbattleothebands.com. For organizations interested in securing group tickets, please fill out the form here. For any questions contact Madison Holesko atMadison.Holesko@houstontexans.com or at 832-667-2394.
2023 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands Event Lineup
Friday, August 25
The Emerging Experience Entrepreneur Conference
Pepsi Step and Stroll: Back on the Yard Kickoff at Texas Southern University
Saturday, August 26
Feeding the Homeless, an NBOTB Cares Community Initiative
HBCU S.T.E.M. College and Career Fair
2023 Pepsi National Battle of the BandsAn exhilarating lineup of official events for the 2023 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands kicks off on Friday, August 25. The Emerging Experience Entrepreneur Conference, presented by J.P. Morgan Chase, will be an invaluable platform for entrepreneurs and the small business community to network, gain knowledge, and gain vital business insights and connections. Later in the day, the Pepsi Step and Stroll: Back on the Yard Kickoff at Texas Southern University will create an electrifying atmosphere on campus, complete with music, vendors, and a vibrant display of Greek camaraderie.
The momentum continues into Saturday, August 26, beginning with Feeding the Homeless, an NBOTB Cares community initiative. Next, the HBCU S.T.E.M. College and Career Fair will pave the way for students and professionals to explore unique college and career opportunities and gain industry-specific insights. The grand finale of the weekend is the 2023 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands, which promises to be an unforgettable blend of thrilling entertainment and a rich showcase of HBCU culture, ensuring a resonant and memorable experience for all attendees.
