The 2025 Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB) is set to electrify the West Coast with its debut showcase at SoFi Stadium next year. They just announced that this Grammy nominated rapper will join the festivities with a closing performance. Read more details and find out who inside.

For the first time in its 19-year history, the HBOB Invitational Showcase will bring the energy and tradition of HBCU marching bands to Los Angeles. This year’s festivities, hosted by Nick Cannon, will be elevated by the closing performance of Grammy-nominated rapper GloRilla, fresh off her successful debut album GLORIOUS.

Six elite HBCU bands, including Alabama A&M University’s Marching Maroon & White, Southern University’s Human Jukebox, and Hampton University’s The Marching Force, have been selected to showcase their talent, representing the artistry and spirit of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the nation. GloRilla’s performance will cap an event celebrating both music and the powerful impact of HBCUs.

“This event is gonna be straight fire, showcasing the beauty and brilliance of Black culture,” GloRilla shared her excitement in a statement.

The Honda Battle of the Bands is part of Honda’s ongoing “Drive the Legacy” initiative, dedicated to supporting HBCU students through scholarship funding and community programs. Over the years, Honda’s commitment has led to $14 million in grants benefiting HBCU students and supporting educational programs, creating invaluable opportunities for over 300,000 students. This initiative also includes the Honda Campus All-Star Challenge, aimed at fostering leadership and development in the HBCU community.

The 2025 HBOB takes place Feb. 1, 2025. Tickets for this year’s groundbreaking showcase are available at their website. For live updates and exclusive content, fans can follow @the_honda on social media. With dynamic performances and influential artists, the 2025 HBOB is set to be an unforgettable celebration of Black excellence and culture.

Who’s ready? Comment your thoughts on HBOB’s latest artist addition below.