THE STAGE IS SET, THE BANDS ARE COMING!

HBCU Battle of the Bands Makes Historic Arena Debut in 

Charlotte, NC — January 24, 2026

Hosted by DJ Envy and Loren LoRosa of The Breakfast Club, with a special live performance by platinum recording artist Sunshine Anderson, the 2026 BIG HBCU Southern Classic Battle of the Bands will make history for the first time ever inside a world-class indoor arena. 

Charlotte, North Carolina will welcome some of the nation’s most prestigious HBCUs and their celebrated marching bands for an unforgettable night of sound, culture, and competition.

A Historic First

Traditionally  performed in massive stadiums before tens of thousands of fans, the move indoors marks a new chapter for the Battle of the Bands. The arena  setting will create an electrifying, high-energy atmosphere where every  note, drumline cadence, and halftime step will be felt up close and  personal. For television audiences, the event promises to deliver a  dynamic broadcast unlike anything ever seen in HBCU band culture.

“This is more than a show—it’s history in the making,"!  “Bringing this event into an arena creates an entirely new experience for fans, allowing them to feel the power, precision, and artistry of these bands up close. It’s intimate, electrifying, and truly unforgettable.”

The event holds historic significance, marking the first time ever that Alcorn State University and Hampton University will perform in Charlotte, North Carolina. Additionally, for the first time in more than a decade, two of North Carolina’s powerhouse marching bands—North Carolina A&T State University and North Carolina Central University—will face off in a highly anticipated band battle, bringing an iconic tradition back to the Queen City.

Joining these four universities are an impressive lineup of additional participants, including Charlotte’s own Johnson C. Smith University, Talladega College, Mississippi Valley State University, South Carolina State University (Drumline), Winston-Salem State University, and Benedict College, making this one of the most diverse and dynamic HBCU band showcases of the year.

More Than Music

Beyond  the performances, the Fanfest will return, featuring more than 30  vendors, 10+ food trucks, and a community stage for local youth  organizations. High school students will also have the chance to engage  directly with HBCU recruiters, with several colleges offering on-site  application fee waivers—continuing the event’s tradition of combining  culture with education and opportunity.

Impact on Charlotte

Organizers  anticipate tens of thousands of visitors, with early projections  suggesting a multi-million-dollar economic impact for the Charlotte region. Hotels, restaurants, transportation, and local small businesses  are all expected to benefit from the influx of fans, alumni, and  students traveling to the city for this historic weekend.

“This  event doesn’t just celebrate music and culture—it drives tourism,  creates jobs, and supports education,” added Alex Davis. “It’s about  lifting up communities while showcasing the very best of HBCU pride.”

A Cultural Celebration

Fans  can expect a lineup of powerhouse marching bands delivering  jaw-dropping performances, precise drill formations, and the kind of  unmatched energy that has made HBCU band culture a worldwide phenomenon.  With over 50 high school band programs in attendance, the event also  serves as an inspirational recruiting tool for the next generation of  student musicians.

The  BIG HBCU Southern Classic is more than just a first—it’s a cultural  milestone. On January 24th, Charlotte will not just host a event; it  will host history.

Tickets available Now!