HAMPTON, Va. — Hampton University's marching band is a force to be reckoned with. The "Marching Force" is hoping to put their talent on display and perform with the best of the best, but first, they need your help.
Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB) is showcasing Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) marching bands on February 1, 2025. The bands will travel to Inglewood, California to perform at SoFi Stadium.
Six talented HBCU marching bands will perform live at the 2025 Invitational Showcase, making HBOB history as Honda brings the tradition and culture of HBCU schools to the West Coast for the first time.
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HU's Marching Force is preparing now to secure their spot for this year's HBOB. The competition is stiff because only six bands nationwide will be invited.
"We have to get in here and really work our tails off to get to where we want to be," said Austin Luke, Marching Force Assistant Drum Major.
That comes from hard work, dedication, and a rigorous band season that starts in less than a month.
"If we actually got to go to California, that will be amazing. We would get to play in a big stadium in front of all those people," said snare player Christian Roberts.
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Experiences like the HBOB sparked head drum major Joshua Gibbons' love for bands and inspired him to attend Hampton University.
"When I came here, I told myself if I can just march a Honda show and be able to be on that field, that will be the highlight of my band career," said Gibbons. "Not only are we the best band in the land, we're the smartest band in the land."
Dr. Thomas Jones Jr., the director of Hampton University bands, says performing at the HBOB is a chance to share the university's values and emphasis on the arts.
"We also want to tell the story about Hampton University itself. Our rich traditions, our heritage, our culture, and the mission we have here. Music is one of the things that saves lives," said Dr. Jones Jr.
News 3's Kelsey Jones wanted to see their talent and dedication for herself. So, she joined the Marching Force on the field where she watched them practice. Let's just say, they definitely have what it takes.
However, they need your help!
The bands are selected through a voting process that includes imput from HBCU band directors and students, Honda representatives and HBOB fans.
If HU's Marching Force gets enough votes to participate, it will be their 3rd time going to HBOB.
Online voting has started and runs until Aug. 15th. Click here to vote for the HBCU marching bands you want to see perform at the 2025 Invitational Showcase in Los Angeles.
Ahead of HBOB 2025, Honda reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to HBCU music education through a $500,000 grant to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. To learn more about HBOB, click here.
