2025 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands Returns to Houston, Celebrating Music, Culture, and Legacy

HOUSTON, Aug. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2025 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB) returns to Houston for a celebration of music, culture, and HBCU excellence. This year's theme, "Beyond the Notes | Music Is the Culture," honors both the performances on the field and the broader impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in shaping communities, culture, and leadership.

"The National Battle of the Bands has become more than a performance—it's a platform," said Derek Webber, CEO of Webber Marketing and Executive Producer of NBOTB. "Beyond the Notes reflects how these bands influence culture, drive community engagement, and inspire future generations of leaders. And Music Is the Culture pays homage to the icons and traditions that paved the way for HBCU marching bands today."

2025 Participating Bands

• Alabama A&M University – Marching Maroon & White
• Albany State University – Marching Rams Show Band
• Florida A&M University – The Marching "100"
• Jackson State University – Sonic Boom of the South
• Langston University – Marching Pride Band
• North Carolina A&T State University – Blue & Gold Marching Machine
• Prairie View A&M University – Marching Storm
• Texas Southern University – Ocean of Soul

Weekend Schedule of Events
The NBOTB weekend begins Friday, August 22 with the Emerging Experience Entrepreneurship Conference, powered by JPMorgan Chase, from 9 AM to 1 PM at The Deluxe Theatre (free with registration).

On Saturday, August 23, the day starts with the Feeding the Homeless initiative at 9 AM at St. Joseph Clubhouse, a community service tradition to serve Houston's unhoused community.
The excitement continues with the Fan Experience at NRG Center from 12 PM to 3:30 PM, featuring the HBCU College & Career Fair, Stroll Off Competition, vendors, and a live performance by Flippa T (free and open to the public).

The weekend culminates at 4:30 PM Saturday with the Pepsi NBOTB at NRG Stadium, where eight powerhouse HBCU marching bands deliver an electrifying musical and cultural showcase.

Know Before You Go
NRG Stadium's Clear Bag Policy will be in effect. Approved bags include:

• One clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12"
• A one-gallon clear freezer bag (Ziploc or similar)
• A small clutch purse no larger than 4.5" x 6.5"

For parking, directions, and additional event details, visit: NRGPark.com

Honoring Legacy: NBOTB Hall of Fame
The NBOTB will honor Dr. Julian E. White, longtime Director of Bands at Florida A&M University, with induction into the NBOTB Hall of Fame. Dr. White's leadership elevated the Marching "100" to international acclaim, blending precision musicianship with innovative showmanship and mentoring generations of performers. He becomes only the second inductee into the Hall of Fame, following its launch during last year's 10th anniversary, which honored Maestro Benjamin J. Butler, II of Texas Southern University.

Tickets for the 2025 Pepsi NBOTB are available now at NationalBattleoftheBands.com/tickets, with options for general admission, group sales, and suites. Fans are encouraged to purchase early as demand is expected to be high. Stay updated by following @NationalBattleOfTheBands on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and @NationalBOTB on Twitter (X).

About National Battle of the Bands
The National Battle of the Bands exists to enhance the exposure of HBCUs, their marching bands, and their role in educating aspiring musicians and developing future leaders. Hosted annually in Houston, TX, in collaboration with Webber Marketing and the Harris County - Houston Sports Authority, the event has generated more than $2 million in scholarships for participating colleges and universities since its inception. For more information, visit www.nationalbattleofthebands.com.

Contact:
Derek Ross
(919) 423-5617
[email protected]

SOURCE National Battle of the Bands