2025 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands Brings HBCU Legacy to Houston, Inspires Cypress-Fairbanks Students Ahead of Berry Center Competition
The energy of the marching band season is building across Cypress-Fairbanks ISD—and this weekend, many local families will head to NRG Stadium to experience the 2025 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB), an electrifying celebration of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), music, and cultural tradition.
Happening Saturday, August 23, the NBOTB event features eight of the nation’s most iconic HBCU bands—including Texas Southern University's Ocean of Soul and Prairie View A&M’s Marching Storm—as they deliver a powerful, high-energy performance that’s as much about legacy as it is about sound.
For CFISD families and students—especially those in the district’s competitive band programs—the timing couldn’t be better. With the Battle at the Berry Marching Band Competition coming up Saturday, October 4 at Cy-Fair FCU Stadium, and with memories still fresh from last year’s trip to state, NBOTB is more than a show—it’s motivation.
In November 2024, CFISD’s own Bridgeland, Cypress Woods, and Cy-Fair high school marching bands earned the honor of performing at the UIL Class 6A State Marching Band Championship at the Alamodome in San Antonio. Their success marked a high point for the district, and for many young performers, the journey continues this fall.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
But before local bands take the field this season, many will be watching—and learning from—the HBCU bands who have set the gold standard in musical showmanship and community influence.
“The National Battle of the Bands has become more than a performance—it's a platform,” said Derek Webber, CEO of Webber Marketing and Executive Producer of NBOTB. “Beyond the Notes reflects how these bands influence culture, drive community engagement, and inspire future generations of leaders.”
A Weekend of Family-Friendly Events and College Connections
The NBOTB weekend offers much more than music. It includes a free HBCU College & Career Fair, a Stroll Off competition, and a Fan Experience open to the public—all hosted at the NRG Center on Saturday afternoon. For CFISD high school students exploring their college options, it's a chance to speak with recruiters, ask questions, and consider pathways at institutions that have shaped generations of leaders.
Earlier that morning, volunteers and community members will gather at the St. Joseph Clubhouse to participate in the NBOTB’s annual Feeding the Homeless service initiative, reminding everyone that music, culture, and service go hand-in-hand.
HBCU Bands Performing at the 2025 NBOTB
- Prairie View A&M – Marching Storm
- Texas Southern – Ocean of Soul
- Florida A&M – The Marching "100"
- Jackson State – Sonic Boom of the South
- North Carolina A&T – Blue & Gold Marching Machine
- Alabama A&M – Marching Maroon & White
- Langston University – Marching Pride Band
- Albany State – Marching Rams Show Band
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Ticket & Event Info
The main show begins at 4:30 PM on Saturday, August 23 at NRG Stadium, with tickets available at nationalbattleofthebands.com/tickets. Fans can choose from general admission, group sales, and suite options—though availability is limited and early purchase is encouraged.
The Fan Experience takes place earlier that afternoon, from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM at NRG Center, and is completely free and open to the public. Students and families attending the HBCU College & Career Fair should bring printed resumes or portfolios if available, and be ready to engage with recruiters on the spot.
Parking is available throughout the NRG Park complex, and guests should plan ahead by reviewing the site map and traffic flow information at nrgpark.com. Note that NRG Stadium’s Clear Bag Policy will be strictly enforced: only transparent bags up to 12”x6”x12”, one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags, or small clutch purses (4.5”x6.5” max) will be permitted.
As CFISD students march toward their own competitive season, the NBOTB reminds them—and all of us—that music isn’t just performance; it’s legacy, leadership, and a rhythm that connects generations.
Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for more updates on marching band season in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD—and don’t miss local coverage of the upcoming Battle at the Berry this fall.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
