FAMU’s Marching 100 to Perform at Houston Battle of the Bands, U.S. Open Althea Gibson Tribute, and Orange Blossom Classic (903 hits)
The world-renowned Florida A&M University Marching (FAMU) “100” is set to take center stage across three major national events, beginning this Saturday, Aug. 23.
Their first stop is Houston for the Pepsi National Battle of the Bands at 5:30 p.m. EST in NRG Stadium, where the Marching 100 will showcase their signature sound, style and precision. Then, they head to New York for a historic performance at the U.S. Open, joining the 75th anniversary tribute to tennis legend Althea Gibson. The tour culminates with a halftime performance at the Orange Blossom Classic on Saturday, Aug. 30 where the FAMU Rattlers take on the Howard University Bison.
“We are always honored to represent FAMU nationally and globally. Our students give everything they have—time, energy and dedication—for opportunities like this. It takes a lot of sacrifice and discipline, but it’s these moments that make it all worthwhile,” said Shelby Chipman, Ph.D., director of bands. “Being able to pay tribute to our iconic alumna Althea Gibson on one of the biggest stages in sports is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.”
As part of the U.S. Open’s HBCU Live celebration, the Marching 100 will perform a tribute in Arthur Ashe Stadium on Wednesday, August 27 at 6:50 p.m., saluting Gibson’s groundbreaking achievements as the first Black athlete to win a Grand Slam title. The band will also be featured in the “HBCU Yard Experience” at the Fountain Plaza earlier that day, showcasing the culture, heritage, and impact of historically Black colleges and universities.
"Seventy-five years ago, Althea Gibson broke barriers and changed the sport of tennis forever," said Marisa Grimes, chief diversity, equity & inclusion officer for the United States Tennis Association. "We are incredibly proud to celebrate her legacy throughout the 2025 US Open, including highlighting her connection to Historically Black Colleges & Universities during our annual HBCU Live event. Althea was a proud FAMU grad, and we are thrilled to have the renowned Marching 100 join us to perform in a special tribute to her."
Introducing the 2025–2026 Drum Majors: Breaking Barriers This momentous tour also marks the official unveiling of the 2025–2026 Drum Major squad. For the first time in the band’s storied history, a young woman leads the charge: Oluwamodupe “Dupe” Oloyede has been named head drum major, alongside her fellow drum majors Phillip Woodside, Kaden Hall, Jason Lane, Isaiah Rogenus, Jose Morris and Tyrhan Lloyd. Oloyede’s appointment signals a new era for the Marching 100, blending tradition with progress.
“To be the first woman in this role, and starting the season with three very distinguished but distinct performances, I mean, the honor is both immense and humbling,” said Oloyede. “I’m standing on the shoulders of so many who came before me, so I’m proud to be here. And just the thought of paying tribute to Althea Gibson at the U.S. Open is beyond amazing.”
