HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (TENNESSEE VALLEY LIVING) - As the nation celebrates Black Music Month this June, ‘Sounds of the Valley’ paid tribute to one of the most vibrant and powerful expressions of Black musical heritage: Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) marching bands.
The National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB) is an annual must-see showcase that features top marching bands from all over the country. Reggie Scott, Vice President of Operations for NBOTB and executive producer of a series highlighting the event, talks about the cultural impact, educational mission, and electric energy behind this year’s upcoming event.
“This event has morphed into not just a great live event, but a great showcase of historically black colleges and universities. They have always been a hot ticket, but now they’re continuous hot ticket.”
— Reggie Scott, VP of Operations for NBOTB
This year’s NBOTB lineup includes the Tennessee Valley’s very own Marching Maroon and White of Alabama A&M University, bringing extra excitement to fans across the area. Scott had plenty of kind sentiments to share not only about the program itself but specifically for its long-time band director, Carlton Wright.
“One of the things I love about what he does is motivate students. I’ve seen him be dad. I’ve seen him be big brother. I have seen him be the leader. I’ve also [seen] how he’s allowed his students through the years to also bring in their talents and to bring in their individuality because it’s not just always about you, it’s about the tides that are changing.”
— Reggie Scott, VP of Operations for NBOTB
Scott also delved into how the National Battle of the Bands is reaching a broader audience through television. The film series highlights previous performances, showing high-stepping drum majors, booming brass sections, and choreography that transform stadiums into stages. He says being able to showcase the event through this medium opens it up to an audience that otherwise would never be exposed to NBOTB.
“…They get a chance to participate in to see the culture. It highlights everything that goes on into preparing for this event, how these bands [you know] prepare their programs, but it also gives you an insight into what the freshmen band members [you know] feel. And, to see and have them tell their stories about what that meant.”
— Reggie Scott, VP of Operations for NBOTB
Scott emphasized how HBCU bands have long been a cornerstone of Black musical expression. From jazz roots and gospel influences to hip-hop medleys and classical interpretations, HBCU bands pay homage to the full spectrum of Black music while paving the way for future generations of musicians.
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The event isn’t just about the performances; it’s about purpose. Each year, money is raised to continue to support band programs across the country. Since moving the event to Houston, Texas, the event has helped raise nearly $2 million in scholarship funding for students involved in HBCU band programs.
“The number one reason that we do what we do is because of scholarships to raise money so that these band programs can thrive.”
— Reggie Scott, VP of Operations for NBOTB
This year’s National Battle of the Bands is set for August 23 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, but a full weekend of events is planned prior to the main event and after! Other events include the Emerging Experience Entrepreneurship Conference, the fan experience, and more.
Scott encourages families, music lovers, and everyone in between to come out to experience the celebration of culture, community, and cause for themselves.
“…Somebody is going to leave there saying to themselves, ‘I want to either donate,’ or ‘I want to make sure that my kid goes to an HBCU,’ or’ Mommy, I want to do that.”
— Reggie Scott, VP of Operations for NBOTB
For tickets and more information about when and where you can watch the film series on television, visit the National Battle of the Bands’ website, linked here.
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