Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary is set to be celebrated in style with an incredible lineup of musicians performing at the Pepsi National Battle of The Bands. On August 16, the hosts for NBOTB announced a star-studded lineup, including Doug E. Fresh, Slim Thug, Choopa, and more.

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The Pepsi National Battle of The Bands, on Saturday, August 26th, 2023, will see many artists collaborating with HBCU marching bands for a truly unforgettable experience. The Executive Producer and Creator of the National Battle of the Bands, Derek Webber, expressed his excitement for this event:
“The 50th anniversary of hip-hop is a significant milestone in our musical heritage. We’re ecstatic to bring together the vibrant energy of HBCU bands with hip-hop pioneers, creating a unique synergy that honors the past and fuels the future. This year’s lineup symbolizes the unbreakable bond between music, culture, and education.”
According to the hosts for NBOTB, the star-studded lineup will include Doug E. Fresh, Slim Thug, Choopa, Lil Keke, Z-Ro, DJ Mr. Rogers, and a special surprise guest.
This event will celebrate hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, showcase the rich culture of HBCU marching bands, and promote scholarship and community activism. It promises a night of music, entertainment, and a powerful message.
To get a closer look at this event, visit the official website
and check out their social media handles @NationalBattleOfTheBands.
In May 2023, Pepsi made headlines with its commitment to supporting HBCU students. Teaming up with singer Mary J Blige, the renowned beverage company pledged to fund one student from an accredited historically black college with a $200,000 scholarship as part of their Strength of a Woman festival and summit.
Additionally, as part of the homage to hip-hop, Pepsi has remastered the Notorious B.I.G. Pepsi Freestyle to honor the late rapper’s legacy.
Similarly to celebrating music and community, the Harlem Festival of Culture occurred in July 2023 at Randall’s Island in New York. The festival paid tribute to the vibrant heritage of Harlem, featuring headliners Teyana Taylor, ASAP Ferg, and Wyclef Jean.