SSU Marching Band Vying for 2010 HBOB

There are 45 HBCU (historically black colleges and universities) marching bands vying for a chance to perform at the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase, and Savannah State University's "Coastal Empire Sound Explosion" is one of them.

By: Kim Gusby | WSAV News 3
Published: October 21, 2009

It's considered the world's largest and most highly anticipated musical event of its kind. There are 45 HBCU (historically black colleges and universities) marching bands vying for a chance to perform at the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase, and Savannah State University's "Coastal Empire Sound Explosion" is one of them.

As in years past, bands are selected by a combination of votes from HBCU presidents, band directors and fans. You can help SSU in its bid by visiting the HBOB web site --www.hondabattleofthebands.com -- to register and vote. Fans may vote once per day per e-mail address. On-line voting ends October 30 at midnight (EST). The eight bands selected for the showcase will be announced on Nov. 9. While all 45 bands will receive a $1,000 award, each showcase band will receive $20,000.

SSU's marching band has participated in the showcase twice- in 2004 and 2005 where it performed before sold-out Georgia Dome crowds and earned a $10,000 award for each year.

Established nine years ago by American Honda Motor Co., Inc., the HBOB showcase is designed to highlight the heritage, showmanship and unique talents of HBCU marching bands.

The 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB) Invitational Showcase will be held Jan. 30, 2010, at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.