WLBT 3 - Jackson, MS: Bragging rights on the line during annual Battle of the Bands

Bragging rights on the line during annual Battle of the Bands

By Roslyn Anderson - bio | email

Marching bands from across the metro area and state met at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium for the annual battle of the bands.

It is a tradition for fans who were also treated to performances by R & B recording artists.

Jackson's Provine High School Marching Band was one of nine to entertain the crowds during the Ninth Annual Southeast Regional Battle of the Bands.

They were followed by Jefferson High School from Fayette.

"We came out just to have a good time and see how the band was gonna perform," said Patricia Kelly of Jackson.

This year the bands performances and dance routines paid tribute to the king of pop Michael Jackson.

"It's always fun to come out and watch the schools and support them and everything," said Jackson resident Shunda Ledbetter.

"It's a family oriented event. So we're here to just make sure that we enjoy the beautiful sunshine and have a good time," said Vince Gordon of Jackson.  

Thousands of people cheered the bands on, while dancing in the stands to each school's beat.

"We have a safe event. It's a family event. We have all the local high schools participating and throughout the state. We have the university band of course we have a lot of national talent," said Battle of the Bands Producer John Ray.  

Bailey, Wingfield, Lanier, Murrah and Callaway high schools all took the field.  

Mississippi Valley State University was the only college band to perform.

Jackson State University was slated to participate, but withdrew after 45 members were suspended for alleged hazing.

"Regardless of what's going on with the band we came to have a nice time, because we love all the bands," said Jackson resident Marian Kelly who brought her daughter to enjoy the music.

Fans jumped to their feet when Mississippi native and national recording artist Soulja Boy entered the stadium.

His appearance and songs capped the day's musical performances.