It’s that time of year again to strike up and show out as bands from around the South go head-to-head in the annual HBCU Labor Day Battle of the Bands.
Fans from all over gathered together in the capital city to witness the dynamic performances from each school.
“We’re looking forward to seeing our babies perform on the big stage,” said Yas Dillard, who traveled from Memphis, Tennessee, to attend.
While the crowds waited for the bands to take their place in the spotlight, they had the opportunity to hang out at the HBCU Labor Day Classic Fan Fest.
3 On Your Side caught up with Jeremiah Kincade, a fan from Louisiana, who said he loves bringing his family to the HBCU Labor Day Battle of the Bands event each year.
“It’s a real good experience, dude. We are, if not every year, trying to make it every other year – pretty consistent, man. The vibe is real laid back. It’s fun. It’s a family event; it’s just a lot of fun,” Kincade said.
Many fans in attendance said they were most excited to watch Jackson State University’s Sonic Boom of the South take to the field, playing underneath the lights.
“The music. Period,” Kincade continued. “I like Jackson. I’ll come to Jackson specifically for Jackson State. I like that they got a really good band, so I like them a lot.”
With good music, there comes good food too.
Plenty of vendors and food trucks lined up outside Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium, preparing fans for the big show.
Cassy High and Audrey Duncan are the co-owners of Moma’s SWAC Kitchen.
High and Duncan’s restaurant was just one of the many food trucks and vendors that set up shop at Fan Fest.
The pair said they love to serve good food while also providing for the community.
“We want the kids to enjoy the food because food feeds the soul. We want them, most of all, to know that we are part of the community and we see what they’re doing. We’ve been there and we want to be a part of it,” High said. “Standing up for them to let them know that this is a wonderful thing and we want to give the community the name it deserves up here at JSU as well.”
The 10 participating HBCU marching bands took to the field on Sunday night at 6:30 p.m.
This year’s HBCU Labor Day Battle of the Bands featured schools such as Grambling State University, Alcorn State University, Langston University, and, of course, the hosting school Jackson State University.
Crowds gathered outside the stadium all day long – eating good food and listening to good music together.
