The Battle at The Dome: HBCU Talent Showcased at the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands
by Dex Bailey, DryerBuzz.com | Photo & Highlights Courtesy of HondaBattleoftheBands.com
The 8th Annual Honda Battle of the Bands Showcase returned to the Georgia Dome on January 30, 2010. Hosted by Ryan Cameron and DJ Herb (V-103), the Honda Showcase brought together some of the most talented HBCU Band Programs to perform for thousand of fans and alumni. In return, each school received a $20,000 grant awarded to their music education program. The grant can be used for student scholarships and purchasing equipment for the program.
The Honda BOTB Showcase also provided a College Recruitment Fair prior to the show. Historically Black Colleges and Universities were represented and available to accept applications from prospective students.
This year’s Battle at the Dome was between Clark Atlanta University (GA), Virginia State University (VA), North Carolina Central University (NC), Prairie View A&M University (TX), Southern University (LA), Albany State University (GA), Tuskegee University (AL), and Florida A&M University (FL).
After a wonderful rendition of the National Anthem, performed by a Clark Atlanta Alumnus, the CAU Marching Panthers took the field first. Dazzling the crowd with their flashy moves and energetic drill, the Marching Panthers proved to everyone that, once again, they were the hometown heroes. They were followed by Virginia State University Trojan Explosion, a brass-heavy band full of power and musicality returning for a consecutive year. The Trojan Explosion made it clear to everyone that size does not matter; this band contained 120 members and sounded like a 240-piece ensemble.
The Sound Machine of North Carolina Central University took the field next, spelling the word “ROSE” to celebrate their invite to the 2011 Rose Bowl. Their superior level of musicianship was showcased through their performance of Earth Song by Michael Jackson. Prairie View A&M University’s Marching Storm took the 4th spot, exciting the crowd with their Funk Box percussion section feature, followed by vivid dance sequences.
For intermission, platinum-recording artist Ludacris performed his hit single How Low, which left the 30,000-plus crowd on their feet. Southern University’s Human Jukebox began the second-half of the show. Being that this was their first trip to Honda, it was obvious the Jukebox had something to prove. From their signature Starburst Drill, to the performing of End of the Road by Boyz II Men, and Thriller dance routine, there is a strong chance they will be invited back to perform next year.
The Albany State University Marching Rams followed with a dazzling show, executing a kaleidoscopic drill and a humorous, yet creative, dance routine. Next came the Tuskegee University Crimson Pipers, a band that has been to every Honda Showcase and seemed to have overstayed their welcome. Although their show was well-executed and entertaining (in my own opinion), the crowd seemed to differ dramatically.
Finally, the crowd-favorite hit the field: the Florida A&M University Marching 100. This was the band everyone wanted to see, and as usual, the “100” delivered a stellar performance. They performed a rendition of And It Kills Me by Melanie Fiona which brought the crowd to their feet.
The Showcase ended with the traditional Mass Band performance, accompanied by a local soul group performing Michael Jackson’s greatest hits. The 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands was a true success; a showcase that will be remembered until next year.
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Buzzed by DryerBuzz January 31, 2010 · Browse More Stories Like This In myATLevents .
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