This article is a part of Blavity U Spirit Week 2023.

It’s no secret that marching bands at HBCUs are iconic!

The captivating routines embedded in Black culture and music have resonated with massive crowds in endless ways since the 19th century. From the band members and drum majors to the dance and flag girls and majorettes, everyone takes their job seriously. Their high-energy showmanship includes dazzling uniforms, precise dance routines, impeccable music selection and welcomed crowd participation.

The Fisk Jubilee Singers at Fisk University and Hampton Singers of Hampton University were some of the first HBCU choirs that date all the way back to the 1870s, reported Forbes. The instrument players in the choirs would eventually begin performing independently to raise money for the school and choir activities.

As their popularity grew, the bands began incorporating music from different genres. Under the leadership of jazz legend Nathaniel Adderley in 1946, the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University band became the first version of the modern HBCU band we know today. Best Colleges claims the “Marching 100” began performing at football games and community events.

Today, HBCU marching bands set the pulse on campuses. Students can now earn band scholarships, travel the world in competition and even have a chance at Hollywood.

While we’re amidst homecoming season, let’s take a moment and spotlight some of the top bands from HBCUs across the nation.

Blavity U Spirit Week

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