HBCU Marching Bands Take Over SoFi Stadium for Historic Honda Battle of the Bands 2025

 

Feb. 1, 2025 - Hampton University Marching FORCE performing SoFi Stadium at the 2025 Honda Of The Bands in Ingelwood, CA.

By: Sharmaine Johnson

The Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB) just made history, and SoFi Stadium will never be the same. Six powerhouse HBCU marching bands brought the house down in a first-of-its-kind West Coast takeover, turning up the energy and setting the perfect tone for Black History Month. The 19th annual showcase wasn’t just a performance—it was a cultural moment, a celebration of the rhythm, resilience, and legacy of HBCUs.

Nick Cannon held it down as host, keeping the crowd hyped, while GRAMMY-nominated rap star GloRilla had the stadium rocking with a performance that had folks out of their seats. 

The Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB) press conference at SoFi Stadium on February 1, 2025, brought together GRAMMY-nominated artist GloRilla, HBOB Project Lead at American Honda Jasmine Cockfield, and multi-talented entertainer and entrepreneur Nick Cannon for an exciting kickoff event.

The Bands That Shut It Down: 

● Alabama A&M University | Marching Maroon & White Band 

● Alabama State University | Mighty Marching Hornets 

● Hampton University | The Marching Force 

● North Carolina A&T State University | The Blue and Gold Marching Machine ● Southern University | Human Jukebox 

● University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff | Marching Musical Machine of the Mid-South 

From the precision footwork to the booming drumlines, these bands brought that undeniable HBCU energy. The dancers, the musicians, the pure showmanship—it was a full-on spectacle that had the crowd roaring from start to finish.

Bigger Than the Bands: Investing in the Culture 

Honda didn’t just bring the bands to L.A. they also invested in them. Each participating HBCU walked away with a $50,000 grant to support their music programs and career development. On top of that, Honda dropped a $500,000 grant to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, keeping the pipeline of HBCU musical talent strong. 

Before the showcase even started, Honda linked up with the Black College Expo™ for a massive college and career fair. Over 200 schools, including top HBCUs, showed up, handing out millions in scholarships, on-the-spot acceptances, and career opportunities that will change lives. 

Keeping the Momentum Going 

Honda’s dedication to HBCUs doesn’t stop here. The Honda Campus All-Star Challenge (HCASC) is coming back in April, giving HBCU students another stage to shine—this time, academically. 

From the first drumroll to the final cheer, HBOB 2025 was a moment HBCU culture won’t forget. Tap in at www.hondabattleofthebands.com or hit up HBOB’s social channels to relive the magic.


YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:

SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA