For more than a decade, marching bands from Historically Black Colleges and Universities around the nation have been selected to showcase their electrifying talents at the Honda Battle of the Bands, and this year was no exception. Eight bands, including Alabama State University’s Mighty Marching Hornets; Bethune-Cookman University’s Marching Wildcats; Howard University’s Showtime Marching Band; Jackson State University’s Sonic Boom of the South; North Carolina A&T University’s Blue and Gold Marching Machine; Southern University’s Human Jukebox; Talladega College Marching Tornado Band; and Tennessee State University’s Aristocrat of Bands competed and put their showmanship on display, delivered showstopping performances at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.
Here are five memorable moments from the 13th annual Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase.
Demetria McKinney sings
Actress and singer Demetria McKinney from “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” performed a heartwarming rendition of the national anthem.
Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick perform
Fans were treated to an unforgettable performance by hip-hop legends Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick.
Big K.R.I.T. joins Jackson State University Sonic Boom of the South
Hip-hip star (and former marching band tuba player) Big K.R.I.T. joined Jackson State University during their performance, representing his home state of Mississippi.
Honda Power of Dreams Award presented to Audrey Stradford
Audrey Stradford was named the first-ever Honda Power of Dreams Award honoree for her lifelong dedication to serving HBCU students and the Tennessee State University community, and was awarded a brand-new 2015 Honda CRV on the field. Watch a video of Stradford and see her as she’s awarded at the showcase.
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The Bands …
The Marching Wildcats of Bethune-Cookman University performed at their record 10th straight Invitational Showcase; the Howard University Showtime Marching Band and Talladega College Marching Tornado Band performed for the first time.
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Check out more photos in the gallery.
