In 2002 the movie Drumline gave viewers a scripted taste of just how competitive and fun HBCU marching bands can be to spectators in the stands, and the musicians on the field. ESPNU has given super-producer Dallas Austin the chance to explore the HBCU marching band culture in a five-part reality series “The Battle.” The series showcases two of the largest HBCU bands — Florida A&M University, and Bethune Cookman College, which both boast over 300 members. Much like Drumline, Austin is taking viewers behind the scenes of each band as they prepare for a head-to-head battle — the 31st annual Florida Classic in Orlando, Fla., on Nov. 20.
Both bands are known for displaying excellent musicianship and executing crisp drills on the field. As exciting as HBCU halftime may be, many bands and band fanatics look forward to the fifth quarter — a no-holds-barred musical slugfest between the two opposing bands that takes place after the football game ends. Since it’s the end of the HBCU college football season, both bands have had plenty of time to perfect songs and field shows.
Check out videos from the bands’ 2010 halftime shows below:
Bethune Cookman Marching Wildcats
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ESPNU is airing the series on the following schedule:
| Date | Time |
| Nov 4 | 6:30 p.m. |
| Nov 11 | 6:30 p.m. |
| Nov 18 | 6:30 p.m. |
| Nov 25 | 7 p.m. |
| 7:30 p.m. |
