Missy Elliott Hosts HBCU Band Battle in Norfolk Oct. 18

Legendary artist Missy Elliott will bring together four dynamic HBCU marching bands for a competition and celebration. The event, titled Missy Elliott Presents HBCU Band Battle, will take place at William “Dick” Price Stadium at Norfolk State University on Sunday, October 18, at 4 p.m.

Participating bands include Norfolk State’s Spartan Legion, Virginia State’s Trojan Explosion, Elizabeth City State’s Sound of Class, and Hampton University’s Marching Force. Tickets are available for purchase.

This event is part of a weekend-long tribute to Elliott's influence on music, culture, and Virginia. Elliott, a Virginia native, described the event as a homecoming. "Virginia will always be home, so bringing something like this back means a lot to me," Elliott said. "HBCU bands have always brought so much energy, creativity, and culture to music. I want this to be a celebration of them and something that inspires the next generation to dream even bigger."

The event highlights the powerful performances characteristic of HBCU bands, known for their immense sound, precise choreography, and captivating musicianship.

Elliott received an honorary doctorate from Norfolk State University in December 2022, where she delivered the commencement address and donated $20,000.