Jackson State University’s Sonic Boom of the South is no stranger to the national scene. The popular marching band is coming off appearances in Super Bowl LVIII, the 2025 Rose Parade, and Coachella. Now, the group will once again represent Mississippi’s capital city in a national competition against other bands.
The Sonic Boom will be among seven of its peers competing in the 2025 Battle of the Bands. This year, the annual competition will be held in NRG Stadium in Houston from August 22-24. Tickets can be purchased here.
The 2025 Pepsi #NBOTB lineup is here!
📅 Sat, Aug 23 | ⏰ 4:30 PM |📍 NRG Stadium | Houston, TX
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Playing to the East: @aamuband@AlbanyStateUniv #MarchingRamsShowBand@SonicBoomOTS… pic.twitter.com/RexgygoE1A
— National Battle of the Bands (@NationalBOTB) May 15, 2025
The Battle of the Bands celebrates the contributions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities to music, culture, and leadership. Founded by Derek Webber, the event serves as the ultimate showcase of these universities’ marching bands, connecting communities and inspiring the next generation.
Bands competing against the Sonic Boom this year include:
- Marching Maroon and White (Alabama A&M)
- Marching Rams Show Band (Albany State)
- Marching “100” (Florida A&M)
- Marching Pride Band (Langston University)
- Blue & Gold Marching Machine (North Carolina A&T State)
- Marching Storm (Prairie View A&M)
- Oceans of Soul (Texas Southern)
Through its mission to amplify HBCU excellence, the competition’s foundation has generated nearly $1.7 million in scholarships for students.
