ATLANTA & FAIRFIELD, AL — For the second consecutive year, Miles College’s Purple Marching Machine has climbed to the top of the HBCU band world, claiming the 2025 ESPN Red Lobster HBCU Division II Band of the Year National Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Miles College is making HBCU history — again. For the second year in a row, the Purple Marching Machine has claimed the ESPN Red Lobster HBCU Division II Band of the Year national championship, solidifying its place among the most elite college marching bands in the nation. The historic win unfolded on one of the biggest stages in college sports: Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Thousands gathered in downtown Atlanta as the Miles College band delivered another stellar performance that captivated judges and fans alike. In a fiercely competitive Division II field, the Purple Marching Machine narrowly topped Fayetteville State’s Marching Bronco Xpress, becoming the first band ever to win consecutive national championships at this prestigious HBCU showcase.
Under the leadership of Director of Bands Professor Willie J. Snipes Jr., the Miles ensemble has perfected a blend of musical precision, creative drill design, and unforgettable showmanship — hallmarks that have fueled their rise to national prominence.
What This Victory Means for Miles College
This moment transcends a trophy — it’s a testament to the dedication, resilience, and discipline of the students who balance academic work with demanding rehearsal schedules. The win not only honors their hard work but also amplifies the visibility of HBCU band culture on college stages and national platforms like ESPN.
🏆 Back-to-Back Champions! 🌟 Miles College’s Purple Marching Machine brought the energy and excellence to Atlanta, defending their ESPN Red Lobster HBCU Band of the Year title. Share if you’re proud of HBCU band culture! 🙌🎶
President Bobbie Knight praised the students’ dedication, emphasizing that this achievement reflects both the band’s talent and the College’s ongoing commitment to excellence.
The Bigger Stage for HBCU Band Culture
The Red Lobster Band of the Year National Championship, produced by ESPN Events, has quickly become one of the most celebrated events in HBCU culture, culminating each year alongside major athletic showcases like the Cricket Celebration Bowl. Bands from Division I and II compete at the highest level in a night that spotlights musical innovation, tradition, and the deep pride of HBCU communities nationwide.
Miles College’s win not only underscores the Purple Marching Machine’s competitive excellence but also highlights the growing influence of HBCU marching bands in shaping American music and performance culture.
About Miles College
Miles College is a private, historically Black liberal arts college located in Fairfield, Alabama, with a legacy rooted in academic excellence, community engagement, and cultural pride. Known for its strong programs in music, education, and the arts, Miles consistently promotes leadership development and real-world impact among its students. The Purple Marching Machine marching band is one of the College’s most distinguished student organizations, representing Miles on national stages and fueling Panther pride each season.
Miles College
About ESPN
ESPN (Entertainment and Sports Programming Network) is a leading global sports media company headquartered in the United States. With a portfolio of live broadcasts, digital platforms, and original programming, ESPN shines a spotlight on collegiate athletics, including innovative events like the Red Lobster Band of the Year National Championship. ESPN’s coverage brings HBCU band performances and athletic achievements to millions of viewers across television, streaming, and social channels.
